Heraclius and Muhammad

The Battle of Yarmouk, 636 CE

Under the leadership of the first Caliphs, the Islamic progress continued with an energy that baffled the Roman generals. It was this spiritual momentum that led to the final clashes between the two realms, most notably at the Battle of Yarmouk in 636 CE. While the Romans fought for an aging empire and a complex state theology, the Muslims fought with the conviction of a people carrying a final scripture to the world.

During the decisive battles for Syria, Heraclius was stationed in Antioch, directing the war effort. He witnessed his veteran legions shatter before the tactical genius of the Muslim military commander Khalid ibn al-Walid.