Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) : The Last Messenger of Allah
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) holds a central place in Islam as the final prophet and messenger of Allah. Born in 570 CE in the city of Mecca, his life and teachings serve as a guiding light for Muslims worldwide. He was entrusted with delivering the final revelation, the Quran, and completing the divine message that had been delivered through previous prophets.
Early Life of Prophet Muhammad
Muhammad was born into the noble Quraysh tribe but faced early hardships, losing both his parents by the age of six. Raised by his grandfather and later his uncle, he grew up to be known as Al-Amin (the trustworthy) due to his honesty and integrity. His character and reputation as a just and kind individual made him a respected figure even before his prophethood.
The Revelation
At the age of 40, Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) while meditating in the Cave of Hira. This marked the beginning of his prophethood. The message he received called for the worship of one God (Allah), the abandonment of idol worship, and the establishment of justice and equality.
Over the next 23 years, Muhammad continued to receive revelations that were compiled into the Quran, the holy book of Islam. These teachings provided guidance for every aspect of life, from personal conduct to governance.
The Message of Islam
Prophet Muhammad’s mission was to convey the oneness of Allah (Tawhid) and guide humanity to live righteous and moral lives. He emphasised:
- Monotheism – Worshipping Allah alone without associating any partners.
- Equality – All humans are equal regardless of race, status, or gender.
- Justice and Compassion – Upholding fairness and showing kindness to all, including the poor and oppressed.
- Accountability – Belief in the Day of Judgment where everyone will be held accountable for their deeds.
Challenges and Perseverance
The Prophet faced intense opposition from the Quraysh tribe, who resisted his message due to its challenge to their polytheistic beliefs and social structure. Despite persecution, he remained steadfast and compassionate, embodying the virtues he preached.
The migration (Hijrah) to Medina in 622 CE marked a turning point, where he established the first Islamic state, built on principles of justice, equality, and religious freedom.
Legacy as the Last Messenger
Prophet Muhammad is regarded as the Seal of the Prophets (Khatam an-Nabiyyin), signifying the end of prophethood. Muslims believe that his teachings complete and perfect the divine message revealed to earlier prophets like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).
Characteristics of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad exemplified the highest standards of character. The Quran describes him as a “mercy to the worlds” (Surah Al-Anbiya: 21:107). His attributes include:
- Kindness and Mercy – Toward family, companions, and even adversaries.
- Honesty and Trustworthiness – Earning the trust of people even before his prophethood.
- Leadership and Wisdom – Guiding a diverse community with justice and fairness.
Conclusion
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is not only the last messenger of Allah but also a timeless role model for humanity. His life embodies the values of compassion, integrity, and devotion to Allah. For Muslims, following his teachings is a pathway to spiritual success and eternal salvation. His legacy continues to inspire billions around the world, guiding them toward a life of faith, justice, and righteousness.
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