Vahan (Byzantine commander)

Vahan was a Byzantine military leader of Armenian origin. He was probably killed shortly after the Battle of Yarmuk in 636.
Vahan, an Armenian who had been the garrison commander of Emesa and served as magister militum per Orientem during the Byzantine–Sasanian War of 602–628, was the overall field commander at the Yarmuk. While Vahan and part of his forces avoided destruction in the battle itself, they were pursued and killed by the Arab mobile guard during their subsequent retreat to Damascus, although other accounts state that a disgraced Vahan may have retired to a monastery in Sinai.
Arab sources emphasise the "noble and righteous conduct" of Vahan compared to other Roman commanders. Claims that Vahan or his soldiers had rebelled against Emperor Heraclius prior to Yarmouk are likely to be smears intended to pin the blame for the defeat on the Armenian.

Negotiations with Rashiduns

Muslim sources record a conversation between Vahan and the Arab General Khalid ibn al-Walid before the battle of Yarmouk:
Khalid ibn al-Walid then began reciting the Koran and spoke of Muhammad. He then recited poetry.
"You have spoken with pride.
But pride is the mask of a soul drowning in fear.
We do not fear you, your throne, nor your legions.
We fear only the One who created you — and will end you.
You offer us the filth of the world — wine, women, and coin.
We offer you something far greater:
Submission to the One God, and the chance to be free.
But you have chosen mockery over mercy.
Arrogance over truth.
And so, negotiations are over.
Tomorrow, we will meet on the field.
And when the dust settles, you will know
whether it is Rum that conquers —
or the Word of God.
Prepare your soul, Caesar
For I have already prepared mine."
“Then bring your faith and your God, Bedouin,” stated Vahan. “I will bury them beside your bones.” negotiations promptly ended there.