One Abu Isa begins in the eighth century to preach a national Messianic movement in Persia.

Abu Isa asserts that the coming of the Messiah is to be preceded by five messengers, of whom he himself is the last—the Messiah's herald (”rasul”), summoner (”da'i”), and prophet, whom the Lord has sanctified.

In a colloquy with the Lord, the mission is entrusted to Abu Isa (so he claims) of delivering the Jews from the rule of the Gentiles, and of making them politically independent.

Finding many followers among the Jews of Persia, he raises a revolt against Caliph 'Abd al-Malik, who sends an army against him.

The decisive battle is fought at Rai (the ancient Rhagaelig), and results in the death of Abu Isa and in the complete defeat of his adherents.