Muslims take great pride in attaining the treasure of knowledge, inspired by an Islamic tradition [hadith] that says, "Seek knowledge, even unto China." The quote points to the importance of seeking knowledge, even if it means enduring the hardship of travelling far distances. At the time of the Holy Last Messenger Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, China was considered the most developed civilization of the period. Islam in China began during the caliphate of 'Uthman ibn Affan, upon him mercy, the third caliph. After triumphing over the Byzantines, Romans and the Persians, 'Uthman ibn Affan, dispatched a deputation to China in 29 AH (650 C.E., eighteen years after the Holy Last Messenger, peace be upon him, passed away), under the leadership by Sa'ad ibn Abi Waqqaas, upon him mercy, Nabi Muhammad's (peace be upon him) maternal uncle, inviting the Chinese emperor to embrace Islam.