Introduction
One of the most important figures in world history is Prophet Muhammad ď·ş.
But many people ask:
Who was he?
Was he just a religious leader?
Was he a political ruler?
Why do Muslims love him so deeply?
In Islam, Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger of God — sent to guide humanity with the final revelation.
This article explains who he was, what he taught, and why he is central to Islam.
His Early Life
Prophet Muhammad ď·ş was born in the city of Makkah (in present-day Saudi Arabia) in the year 570 CE.
He was born into the tribe of Quraysh but:
- His father passed away before he was born.
- His mother died when he was six.
- He was raised by his grandfather, then his uncle.
Despite growing up an orphan, he became known for his honesty and integrity.
Before prophethood, the people of Makkah called him:
“Al-Ameen” – The Trustworthy.
The Beginning of Revelation
At the age of 40, Muhammad ď·ş would often retreat to a cave outside Makkah to reflect.
It was there that he received the first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel.
The first words revealed were:
“Read in the name of your Lord who created…”
This marked the beginning of his prophethood.
Over the next 23 years, the Qur’an was revealed to him.
His Message
The message of Prophet Muhammad ď·ş was simple and clear:
- Worship One God alone.
- Abandon idol worship.
- Be just and honest.
- Care for the poor.
- Protect women and orphans.
- Prepare for the Day of Judgment.
He called for moral reform in a society filled with injustice, tribal conflict, and inequality.
Persecution and Patience
When he began preaching monotheism, the leaders of Makkah strongly opposed him.
He and his followers faced:
- Mockery
- Boycotts
- Physical abuse
- Social isolation
Yet he responded with patience and perseverance.
He never sought revenge or personal gain.
Migration to Madinah
After years of persecution, he migrated to the city of Madinah in 622 CE.
This event, known as the Hijrah, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
In Madinah, he:
- Established a just society.
- Drafted a constitution.
- United tribes.
- Promoted peace agreements.
He became both a spiritual leader and a statesman.
His Character
Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad ď·ş demonstrated the highest moral character.
He was known for:
- Mercy
- Forgiveness
- Humility
- Generosity
- Justice
Even toward his enemies, he showed compassion.
When he returned to Makkah victorious years later, instead of revenge, he declared general amnesty.
His Family Life
He was:
- A loving husband
- A caring father
- A supportive friend
He helped with household chores.
He mended his own clothes.
He lived simply despite having influence.
His life demonstrated balance between spirituality and daily living.
Why Muslims Follow Him
Muslims do not worship Prophet Muhammad ď·ş.
They worship Allah alone.
However, they follow Muhammad ď·ş because:
- He delivered the Qur’an.
- He demonstrated how to live Islam.
- He is considered the best example of character.
The Qur’an describes him as:
“A mercy to the worlds.”
Misconceptions About Prophet Muhammad ď·ş
❌ Myth: He spread Islam by the sword
Islam grew through preaching, trade, and moral reform. Forced conversion is not allowed in Islam.
❌ Myth: He sought power
He lived modestly and rejected wealth and status when offered.
❌ Myth: Muslims worship him
Muslims respect and love him but worship only God.
His Final Sermon
During his farewell pilgrimage, he delivered a final sermon emphasising:
- Equality of all races
- Rights of women
- Sanctity of life
- Justice
- Brotherhood
He said:
“No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor a non-Arab superior to an Arab — except in righteousness.”
This message remains powerful today.
His Passing
Prophet Muhammad ď·ş passed away in 632 CE at the age of 63.
He left behind:
- The Qur’an
- His teachings (Sunnah)
- A transformed society
- A growing global faith
Today, billions of Muslims send blessings upon him daily.
Conclusion
Prophet Muhammad ď·ş was:
- A messenger of God
- A reformer
- A leader
- A husband and father
- A model of moral excellence
Understanding his life helps people understand Islam itself.
đź“Ś Frequently Asked Questions About Prophet Muhammad ď·ş
Who was Prophet Muhammad ď·ş?
Prophet Muhammad ď·ş was the final messenger of God in Islam. Born in Makkah in 570 CE, he received revelation at the age of 40 and conveyed the message of monotheism, justice, and moral reform. Muslims follow his teachings as the final prophet sent to humanity.
Do Muslims worship Prophet Muhammad ď·ş?
No. Muslims worship Allah alone. Prophet Muhammad ď·ş is respected and loved as a messenger of God, but he is not worshipped. Worship in Islam is directed only to the One Creator.
What was the main message of Prophet Muhammad ď·ş?
His core message was to worship One God alone (Tawheed), abandon idol worship, uphold justice, care for the poor, and prepare for the Day of Judgment.
Where was Prophet Muhammad ď·ş born?
He was born in the city of Makkah (in present-day Saudi Arabia) in the year 570 CE.
What is the Hijrah?
The Hijrah refers to Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE due to persecution. It marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Why is Prophet Muhammad ď·ş called the final prophet?
Muslims believe that Muhammad ď·ş was the last in a long line of prophets including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them). After him, no new prophet will be sent.
To understand more about the foundation of Islamic belief, read our guide on What Is Islam? and learn about the belief in Who Is Allah?