Hydarnes the Elder vs Jafar ibn Abi Talib

Hydarnes was one of the seven Persian nobles who conspired to overthrow Gaumata, the Magian usurper who had seized the throne after Cambyses II's death. He participated in the assassination of Gaumata, paving the way for Darius I to become king.

Darius I appointed Hydarnes as governor of the central satrapies of the Achaemenid Empire, a region encompassing Media and surrounding territories. He administered this key area, ensuring loyalty and collecting tribute for the crown.

Hydarnes commanded the elite Persian infantry unit known as the Immortals during the Second Persian invasion of Greece. He led them at the Battle of Thermopylae, where they outflanked the Greek position via the Anopaia path, leading to the Greek defeat.

Jafar ibn Abi Talib was among the early converts to Islam, accepting the faith shortly after his brother Ali. He was a respected member of the Banu Hashim clan and faced persecution from the Quraysh.

Jafar ibn Abi Talib led the second group of Muslim emigrants to Abyssinia. He successfully argued before the Negus for the Muslims' protection, reciting verses from the Quran and securing asylum for the community.

Jafar ibn Abi Talib returned from Abyssinia to Medina in 628. He immediately joined the Muslim army at the Battle of Khaybar, where he fought alongside Muhammad and demonstrated his military prowess.

Jafar ibn Abi Talib was the second commander killed at the Battle of Mutah after Zayd ibn Harithah. He took the banner and fought fiercely until he was killed, his body reportedly found with over 90 wounds. He was later called 'the flying one' for his martyrdom.