Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) is the greatest human being in history and the last prophet of Islam. He arrived on earth at a time when Arab society was submerged in ignorance, superstition, injustice, adultery, war, and social decay. Almighty Allah sent him as a mercy for all mankind.
In the Holy Quran, Allah Ta’ala says:
“I have sent you only as a mercy for the worlds.”
(Surah Al-Anbiya: 107)
His life is a bright example of humanity, justice, kindness, truthfulness, and peace.
Birth and Lineage of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born in 570 AD (the Year of the Elephant) in the holy city of Mecca, present-day Saudi Arabia. He was a descendant of the honored Bani Hashim clan of the Quraish tribe.
Family Identity
Father’s Name: Abdullah ibn Abdul Muttalib
Mother’s Name: Amina bint Wahb
Grandfather’s Name: Abdul Muttalib
Tribe: Quraish
Clan: Bani Hashim
His father passed away before his birth. He lost his mother Amina at the age of six, and his grandfather Abdul Muttalib died when he was eight. After that, his uncle Abu Talib took over the responsibility of his upbringing.
Naming and Childhood
After his birth, his grandfather Abdul Muttalib joyfully named the child “Muhammad”, which means “Highly Praised”.
On the other hand, his mother Amina, based on guidance received in a dream, named him “Ahmad”, which means “The Most Praiser”.
Both of these names are mentioned in the Holy Quran.
Upbringing by Nurse Mother Halima Sa’diya
According to the prevailing Arab custom, infant Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was sent to a foster mother to be raised in the pure environment of the desert.
Fortunately, Hazrat Halima Sa’diya (RA) accepted him as her own child. From the moment she took the Prophet (SAW), special blessings from Allah descended upon Halima’s family.
He grew up under the care of Halima Sa’diya for about five years, where he gained early vocational education by herding goats.
Receiving the Title Al-Amin
In his adolescence and youth, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was exceptionally truthful, faithful, and just.
Due to his honesty and trustworthiness, the people of Mecca honored him with the titles “Al-Amin” (The Trustworthy) and “As-Sadiq” (The Truthful).
Even his opponents could never question his honesty.
Marriage with Khadija (RA)
At the age of 25, he took charge of managing the business of Hazrat Khadija (RA), a respected and wealthy businesswoman of Mecca.
Impressed by his honesty, efficiency, and reliability, Khadija (RA) proposed marriage.
Time of Marriage
Prophet Muhammad (SAW)’s Age: 25 years
Khadija (RA)’s Age: Approximately 40 years
Their married life was extremely happy and exemplary.
Attainment of Prophethood and the First Revelation
At the age of 40, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to spend time in worship and meditation in the Cave of Hira in Mecca.
In 610 AD, during the month of Ramadan, Allah’s angel Jibrail (AS) came to him with the first revelation.
The first revealed verse was:
“Read in the name of your Lord who created.”
(Surah Al-Alaq: 1)
Through this, he received the responsibility of Prophethood as the final Messenger of Allah.
The Call to Islam
Secret Preaching
For the first three years, he preached Islam secretly.
The first to accept Islam were:
- Hazrat Khadija (RA)
- Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA)
- Hazrat Ali (RA)
- Hazrat Zaid ibn Harithah (RA)
- Public Preaching
After three years, by Allah’s command, he began preaching Islam publicly.
Standing on Mount Safa, he called upon the people to worship one Allah.
Persecution and the Journey to Taif
When the preaching of Islam began, Quraish leaders started terrible persecution of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the Muslims.
At one point, he went to Taif in hope of support. But the people of Taif did not accept him and injured him by throwing stones.
Despite this, he did not curse them; rather, he prayed for their guidance.
The Event of Mi‘raj
At the age of 51, Almighty Allah honored the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with a special status.
He traveled from Mecca to Baitul Muqaddas and from there passed through the seven heavens to gain proximity to Allah.
During this journey, five daily prayers were made compulsory for Muslims.
Migration (Hijrat) to Medina
When the disbelievers of Mecca plotted to kill the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he migrated to Medina by Allah’s command.
Accompanied by Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), he stayed in the Cave of Thawr for three days and later reached Medina safely.
The Hijrat marked the beginning of a new era in Islamic history.
Establishment of Islamic State in Medina
After reaching Medina, he performed:
Important Tasks
Construction of Masjid Quba
Establishment of Masjid Nabawi
Establishing brotherhood between Muhajireen and Ansar
Forming an Islamic state system
Establishing a justice-based society
Under his leadership, Medina became the center of peace, justice, and brotherhood.
Conquest of Mecca
After the violation of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, in the 8th Hijri, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) marched towards Mecca with ten thousand companions.
The people of Mecca surrendered almost without resistance.
Special Aspects of the Conquest of Mecca
No genocide occurred
General amnesty was declared for enemies
Idols were removed from the Kaaba
The victory of Islam was consolidated
It is considered one of the most peaceful victories in human history.
The Farewell Hajj and Historic Sermon
In the 10th Hijri, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) performed the only complete Hajj of his life.
On the plain of Arafat, he delivered a historic sermon on human rights, women’s rights, equality, brotherhood, and the fundamental teachings of Islam.
At this time, Allah Ta’ala declared:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah: 3)
Passing (Wafat)
A few days after the Farewell Hajj, he fell ill.
In the month of Rabiul Awwal, 11 Hijri, at the age of 63, he passed away.
He breathed his last in the room of Hazrat Aisha (RA).
The Muslim Ummah was submerged in deep grief at his passing, but his teachings and ideals continue to guide mankind forever.
Special Characteristics of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)’s Character
His Unique Qualities
- Truthful
- Trustworthy
- Kind
- Just
- Forgiving
- Humble
- Patient
- Humanitarian
- Ideal Statesman
- Successful Leader
Final Words
Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) is not just the Prophet of Muslims, but a unique ideal for all mankind. His life was a bright example of truth, justice, kindness, forgiveness, and human welfare. He brought the message of light in the age of darkness, and his teachings still illuminate the lives of billions of people today.
Peace, justice, and welfare can be established in individuals, families, and societies only by following his ideals.
FAQ
When was Prophet Muhammad (SAW) born?
He was born in 570 AD in Mecca.
At what age did the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) attain Prophethood?
He attained Prophethood at the age of 40.
Who was the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW)?
Hazrat Khadija (RA).
In what year did the Hijrat to Medina take place? In 622 AD.
What was the age of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at the time of his passing? 63 years.
