Early Life
Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), also known as Prophet Muhammad, is the central figure of Islam and is regarded as the last prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity. He was born in Mecca (present-day Saudi Arabia) in the year 570 CE, into the noble Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe. His father, Abdullah, died before his birth, and his mother, Amina, passed away when he was just six years old. Consequently, Muhammad (PBUH) was raised by his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, and after his grandfather’s death, by his uncle, Abu Talib.
As a young man, Muhammad (PBUH) earned a reputation for his honesty and integrity, earning him the nickname “Al-Amin,” meaning “The Trustworthy.” He worked as a merchant and was known for his fair dealings.
Marriage to Khadijah
At the age of 25, Muhammad (PBUH) married Khadijah, a wealthy widow 15 years his senior. Khadijah was impressed by Muhammad’s (PBUH) character and honesty, and their marriage was a happy and supportive union. They had six children together, including four daughters and two sons, both of whom died in infancy.
The Revelation
At the age of 40, Muhammad (PBUH) began retreating to the Cave of Hira on Mount Noor, near Mecca, to meditate and reflect. It was during one of these retreats, in the year 610 CE, that he received his first revelation from Allah through the Angel Gabriel. This revelation marked the beginning of his prophethood. Over the next 23 years, these revelations continued and were later compiled into the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
The Message of Islam
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began preaching the message of monotheism, calling people to worship the one true God, Allah, and to abandon the polytheistic practices that were prevalent in Mecca at the time. He emphasized justice, compassion, and the importance of community. His message was met with resistance from the Quraysh, who saw it as a threat to their social and economic order.
Despite persecution, Muhammad (PBUH) continued to preach, gaining a small but dedicated group of followers. These early Muslims faced severe persecution, and many were tortured or killed for their beliefs.
The Hijra (Migration) to Medina
In 622 CE, due to the increasing hostility in Mecca, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated to the city of Yathrib, later known as Medina. This event, known as the Hijra, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad (PBUH) established a Muslim community and became both a spiritual and political leader.
Establishment of the Islamic State
In Medina, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) laid the foundation for an Islamic state based on the principles of justice, equality, and mutual respect. He established a constitution, known as the Constitution of Medina, which outlined the rights and duties of all citizens, regardless of their religion.
Over the next few years, Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers engaged in several battles with the Quraysh of Mecca, including the Battles of Badr, Uhud, and the Trench. Despite being outnumbered, the Muslims were often victorious, which helped to strengthen the Islamic community.
Conquest of Mecca
In 630 CE, after years of conflict, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) led a peaceful conquest of Mecca. He entered the city without bloodshed and forgave his former enemies, demonstrating his commitment to mercy and forgiveness. He then cleansed the Kaaba, the sacred shrine in Mecca, of its idols, rededicating it to the worship of Allah alone.
Final Years and Legacy
After the conquest of Mecca, Islam spread rapidly throughout the Arabian Peninsula. In 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon during his final pilgrimage to Mecca. In this sermon, he emphasized the principles of equality, justice, and the importance of following the Quran and his teachings.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away on June 8, 632 CE, in Medina at the age of 63. He was buried in the chamber of his wife, Aisha, in Medina, which is now part of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Impact and Legacy
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life and teachings have had a profound impact on the world, shaping the course of history and laying the foundation for the Islamic civilization. His message of monotheism, social justice, and compassion continues to inspire millions of Muslims around the world. As the last prophet in Islam, his life serves as a model for Muslims to follow in their daily lives.
The Quran, revealed to him, remains the central religious text of Islam, and his teachings, known as Hadith, continue to guide Muslims in matters of faith, law, and morality. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is revered as the “Seal of the Prophets,” and his legacy endures as a testament to his character, wisdom, and the divine mission he fulfilled