Life of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) born in the year 570 CE in the city of Makkah in the tribe of Quraysh, a respected tribe in Arabia. His lineage traces back to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), and he belonged to the noble family of Banu Hashim. His birth was seen as a sign of hope in a time of darkness and ignorance (Jahiliyyah).Many scholars regard his birth as the beginning of a spiritual awakening that would soon transform the world.
"And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], but as a mercy to the worlds."Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107):
1. Parents and Childhood
His father, Abdullah, passed away before his birth, and his mother, Aminah, died when he was only six years old. He was cared for by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, and later by his uncle Abu Talib. Despite the early loss of his parents, he was known for his notable qualities in childhood.
- ★ Truthful (As-Sadiq) – He never told a lie, even as a child.
- ★ Trustworthy (Al-Ameen) – People trusted him with their belongings and secrets.
- ★ Kind and Compassionate – Always gentle and caring, especially to the poor and weak.
- ★ Wise and Thoughtful – Displayed maturity beyond his age, often resolving small disputes peacefully.
- ★ Pure-hearted – Loved solitude and disliked idol worship from an early age.
- ★ Respectful and Obedient – Honored his elders and fulfilled responsibilities with sincerity.
2. Early Adulthood and Marriage
In his youth, he worked as a trader and became known for fair dealings and integrity. His reputation led a noble woman, Khadijah (RA), to offer him a business proposal. Impressed by his character, she later proposed marriage. They were married when he was 25 and she was 40. Their marriage was full of love, respect, and support
3.The Prophecy of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was chosen by Allah as the final messenger in a long line of prophets sent to guide humanity. At the age of 40, while meditating in the Cave of Hira, he received the first revelation through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), marking the beginning of his Prophethood. This moment is recorded in the Qur’an
"Read in the name of your Lord who created."— Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1)
He preached Tawheed (oneness of Allah), justice, compassion, and morality, despite intense opposition. His prophethood was foretold in earlier scriptures. Allah says:
"Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find written in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel..."— Surah Al-A'raf (7:157)
His life exemplified the perfect human character, as confirmed by Allah
"And indeed, you are of a great moral character."— Surah Al-Qalam (68:4)
He is not only a warner and bearer of glad tidings, but the Seal of the Prophets, as stated in the Qur’an:
"Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets..."— Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40)
4. Teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The core of his teachings was the oneness of Allah (Tawheed), the importance of good character, justice, mercy, and equality. He emphasized helping the poor, treating others kindly, and staying away from arrogance and injustice. His mission was not only spiritual but also social reform..
- 1. Worship One God (Tawheed)
“Say: He is Allah, the One.”
— Qur’an 112:1
→ The Prophet ﷺ emphasized monotheism — believing and submitting to Allah alone without associating partners.
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2. Good Character and Manners
“I was sent to perfect good character.”
— (Hadith - Al-Muwatta)
→ Honesty, patience, humility, and kindness were central to his mission.
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3. Mercy and Forgiveness
“Show mercy to those on earth, and the One above the heavens will show mercy to you.”
— (Hadith - Tirmidhi)
→ He forgave enemies and taught compassion even in difficult circumstances.
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4. Justice and Fairness
“Help your brother whether he is an oppressor or oppressed.”
— (Hadith - Bukhari)
→ He stood firmly for justice and fairness, regardless of race, tribe, or religion.
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5. Equality of All Humans
“No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor is a white man superior to a black man — except by righteousness.”
— (Farewell Sermon)
→ He eliminated social class, racism, and tribal superiority.
- 6. Trust and Honesty
→ Before prophethood, he was known as Al-Ameen (The Trustworthy) because of his impeccable honesty in business and daily life.
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7. Rights of Women
→ The Prophet ﷺ uplifted the status of women, granting them inheritance, education, and respect in a time when they had no rights.
- 8. Care for the Poor and Orphans
“The one who cares for an orphan and myself will be together in Paradise like this,” and he held his two fingers together.— (Bukhari)
5. Sunnah
The Sunnah refers to the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is a practical example of how to live according to the Quran. From his eating habits to his prayers, family life, and dealings with others—his life remains the best model for all Muslims.
Qur'an Says:
"Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have a beautiful example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much."Surah Al-Ahzab (33:21)
→ This verse emphasizes the Prophet ﷺ as the best role model.
6. Titles of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Some of his famous titles are given below:
Arabic Title | Meaning |
---|---|
Al-Ameen (الأمين) | The Trustworthy |
As-Sadiq (الصادق) | The Truthful |
Rasul Allah (رسول الله) | The Messenger of Allah |
Nabi al-Rahmah (نبي الرحمة) | The Prophet of Mercy |
Khatam an-Nabiyyin (خاتم النبيين) | The Seal of the Prophets |
Al-Mustafa (المصطفى) | The Chosen One |
Habibullah (حبيب الله) | The Beloved of Allah |
An-Nadhir (النذير) | The Warner |
Al-Bashir (البشير) | The Bearer of Good News |
Al-Muddathir (المدثر) | The One Wrapped in Garments (Qur’an 74:1) |
Al-Muzzammil (المزمل) | The One Enshrouded (Qur’an 73:1) |
Shafi‘ al-Ummah (شفيع الأمة) | The Intercessor for the Nation |
Siraj al-Munir (سراج منير) | The Luminous Lamp (Qur’an 33:46) |
Each of these titles is mentioned either in the Qur’an, authentic Hadiths, or in classical Islamic scholarship, emphasizing his exemplary character, mission, and closeness to Allah.
7. Major Challenges
The Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers faced several Challenges
- ★ Rejection by His Own People
Despite his known honesty and trustworthiness (Al-Amin), Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was harshly rejected by many of the Quraysh after he began preaching Islam. They accused him of sorcery, madness, and falsehood.
- ★ Persecution of Early Muslims
His followers, especially the weak and poor, were tortured, boycotted, and even killed for accepting Islam. The Prophet ﷺ himself was mocked, insulted, and physically harmed.
- ★ Economic and Social Boycott
The Quraysh placed the Prophet's clan, Banu Hashim, under a severe boycott for nearly 3 years in the valley of Shi’b Abi Talib, cutting off food, trade, and marriage ties.
- ★ Loss of Loved Ones
In the same year, he lost his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his supportive uncle Abu Talib, a year known as ‘Aam al-Huzn (The Year of Sorrow).
- ★ Ta’if Incident
When he sought support from the city of Ta’if, he was humiliated and stoned by its people, causing his body to bleed. Yet, he forgave them and prayed for their guidance.
- ★ Battles and Threats to Life
After migrating to Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ faced multiple battles, such as Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq, in defense of Islam. His life was constantly under threat from plots and conspiracies.
- ★ Hypocrites and Jewish Tribes in Madinah
He also had to deal with the Munafiqoon (hypocrites) and breaches of treaties by some Jewish tribes, which endangered the unity and peace of the early Muslim community.
8. Death and Legacy
Prophet Muhammadﷺ passed away at the age of 63 in Madinah. He left behind the Quran, his Sunnah, and a well-established religion that would spread across the globe. His character and teachings continue to inspire billions and remain unmatched in the history of mankind.
Despite facing immense hardships throughout his mission, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ remained steadfast, patient, and merciful. His life is a timeless example of perseverance in the face of adversity, unwavering faith in Allah, and deep compassion for humanity. Each challenge he endured became a lesson in resilience and moral strength for generations to come. Today, his legacy continues to guide and inspire billions around the world.