Excerpt from the book Muhammad, by Demi: "The Quraysh leaders continued their efforts to crush Islam by threats, stonings, beatings, and all forms of persecution. They even plotted against Muhammad's life. In the year 622 Muhammad received a message from God to leave Mecca and journey to Yathrib, which was renamed Medina, where Islam would be welcomed. Muhammad and his followers began their great flight, or Hijra, at night, leaving Mecca on camels, on horses, and by foot. The Quraysh learned of the Hijra and set soldiers upon Muhammad with swords. Protected by God from being seen and heard, Muhammad managed to escape unharmed." Provided by: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing