Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the central figure in Islam, regarded as the last prophet in a line of prophets that includes Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Muslims believe that Muhammad ﷺ was chosen by God (Allah) to deliver the final and complete revelation of the Islamic faith through the Quran, which is considered the literal word of God.
He was sent to confirm and restore the messages of previous prophets and scriptures in their original, uncorrupted forms.
Early Life
Birth and Family
Muhammad ﷺ was born around 570 CE in the city of Mecca, in present-day Saudi Arabia. He belonged to the Quraysh tribe, a prominent and respected tribe in Mecca. His father, Abdullah, died before he was born, and his mother, Amina, passed away when he was six, leaving him an orphan. He was raised by his grandfather and later by his uncle, Abu Talib.
Character
Even before his prophethood, Muhammad ﷺ was known for his honesty and trustworthiness, earning the nickname “Al-Amin” (the trustworthy). He worked as a merchant and was respected for his integrity in business dealings – even amongst different religious communities.
Prophethood and Revelation
The First Revelation
At the age of 40, while meditating in the Cave of Hira near Mecca, Muhammad ﷺ received his first revelation from Allah through the Archangel Gabriel. This event marked the beginning of his mission as the Messenger of God. The revelations continued for 23 years, forming the Quran.
Message
His message emphasised monotheism (belief in one God), social justice, moral conduct, and the importance of worship. He called for the end of idolatry in Mecca and preached about the Day of Judgment, the afterlife, and ethical living.
Challenges and Migration
Opposition in Mecca
The message faced strong opposition from the Quraysh tribe and other Meccan elites, who saw his teachings as a threat to their social and economic power. His followers were persecuted, leading to the migration (Hijra) to Medina in 622 CE, an event that marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
The Medina Period
In Medina, Muhammad ﷺ established a Muslim community (Ummah) and became both a spiritual and political leader. The Muslim community grew, and his leadership helped resolve conflicts between various tribes in the region.
Legacy and Death
Final Sermon
In 632 CE, during his final pilgrimage to Mecca, Muhammad ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon, where he summarised his teachings and emphasised equality, justice, and the rights of individuals. He reminded Muslims of their obligations to God and each other.
Death
Muhammad ﷺ passed away later in 632 CE in Medina at the age of 63. His death marked the end of the prophetic tradition in Islam, as Muslims believe he was the “Seal of the Prophets,” meaning no prophets would come after him.
Impact and Legacy
Islamic Civilization
His teachings laid the foundation for the rapid expansion of Islam and the development of a rich Islamic civilisation. His life and sayings (recorded in Hadiths) continue to guide Muslims in all aspects of life.
Respected Figure
Muhammad ﷺ is deeply revered by Muslims, not only as a prophet but also as an exemplary human being whose life offers a model for living a morally upright and devout life.