Muhammad bin Umar says that Suhayl bin Amr was among the nobles and chiefs of Quraysh. He took part in the Battle of Badr on the side of the polytheists, and Malik bin al-Dukhshum took him captive, whereupon he (Malik) said these verses: "I captured Suhayl, and I would not wish to take anyone else in exchange for him, even in exchange for all the nations; and the tribe of Khindif knows that the valiant Suhayl is their (true) young champion when matters are set in order; I struck with Dhu al-Shafr (my sword) until it bent, and I compelled myself (to overpower) this favoured man." Among Suhayl's children were Abdullah, who was among the earliest Muhajirun and took part in the Battle of Badr; Abu Jandal, who had the companionship of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him); and Utbah the younger.

Sayyiduna Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) states that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) was mounted on his she-camel when he (peace and blessings be upon him) met Usamah bin Zayd, and he (peace and blessings be upon him) seated him in front of him, while Suhayl bin Amr was (being led) alongside as a captive, with his hands tied to his neck.