Makhzum

Makhzum, also known as Banu Makhzum, is a prominent clan of the Quraysh tribe in Mecca during the late pre-Islamic and early Islamic periods. The Quraysh were the dominant mercantile and political group in Mecca; the Banu Makhzum were one of its leading clans, often allied with the Banu Umayya and in rivalry with Banu Hashim. The clan’s name derives from their eponymous ancestor Makhzum. They were known for wealth and military prowess and played a central role in the pre-Islamic governance of Mecca and in policing the Kaaba.

During the life of Muhammad, Makhzum leaders were among the chief opponents in Mecca. Abu Jahl, whose full name was Amr ibn Hisham, was a leading figure from Banu Makhzum and a staunch opponent of Islam. Other prominent Makhzumites, such as al-Walid ibn al-Mughirah, engaged in opposition and persecuted early Muslims. Khalid ibn al-Walid, a celebrated general, belonged to Banu Makhzum; he initially fought against Muhammad's followers before converting to Islam after the Battle of the Trench and later became a key commander in the Muslim conquests.

With Islam’s expansion, members of Makhzum assumed various roles within the Muslim community. Khalid’s conversion symbolized a shift, and other Makhzumites occupied administrative and military positions under the Rashidun and Umayyad caliphates. As a Quraysh clan, Makhzum declined in independent political influence but remained part of Meccan elite society, contributing to the broader Quraysh leadership in the early Islamic state.