Last updated on November 19th, 2024 at 11:47 am

Prophet Muhammad (Arabic مُحَمَّد) صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم, is the last Prophet and Messenger sent to this world by Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ; hence titled as “Seal of the Prophets”, “Khatam an-Nabiyyin” (Arabic خَاتَم ٱلنَّبِيِّين). Unlike all of the previously sent Prophets and Messengers, he was not sent for the guidance of a specific nation or tribe, rather he is the Prophet for the entire mankind. Verse 107 of Surah Al-Anbiya narrates this as under:

وَمَاۗ اَرْسَلْنٰكَ اِلَّا رَحْمَۃً لِّلْعٰلَمِيْنَ 

Translation

We have sent you forth as nothing but mercy to people of the whole world

Here, the word “whole world” (لِّلْعٰلَمِيْنَ) includes the entire mankind and Jinns and all that exists. So, the Prophethood of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم is not restricted to a specific time or nation, it is for the entire world for all the times. Moreover, with him, the chain of Prophets sent to this world was also ended. Hence, he is the Prophet and Messenger for all the times to come. Likewise, the last divine Book, named “The Quran,” was also revealed to him, which stands as the basic guideline for living an Islamic way of life.

Although his name appears for 4 times, he is mentioned in the Quran in several verses and surahs with different titles under various contexts.

Family Background and Birth of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was born in Mecca, situated in Saudi Arabia. His grandfather, Abdul Muttalib was the chief of the Quraysh tribe of Mecca. His father’s name was Abdullah, whereas his mother’s was Amina, Wahb Ibn Manaf’s daughter.

He was born on Monday, 2nd of August 570 CE, which according to the Islamic Calendar (Hijri Calendar) is the 12th of Rabi Al-Awwal. His father, Abdullah died before his birth. His mother also died in his early childhood, when he was just 6 years old. His grandfather Abdul Mutallib, who was taking care of him, also died after two years. While on his deathbed, Abdul Mutallib, he put Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, under the guardianship of his Son Abu Talib. Per the traditions of that era, he was handed over to his foster mother, Halima, where he stayed till the age of 2 years.

So, the early childhood of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was quite different from the other children of his time. He had to live as an orphan, though his grandfather and uncle Abu Talib took good care of him. At the age of 12/13 years, Abu Talib took him to Syria for a trade visit.

During their stay in Syria, they encountered a Christian monk, Bahira. The monk told Abu Talib to take good care of this child as the Jews would try to harm him and that a great career awaits this young man. This was the first sign of him being a Prophet in the coming days, as was recognized by the Christian monk. Read more about the family background and birth of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ as As-Sadiq and Al-Ameen

From the very earlier days, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ lived a very different life, against the traditions and norms of that era. It was the time when the people of Mecca were involved in polytheism. They used to have battles with their fellow tribes without any obvious reasons. It was an era of lawlessness and bloodshed. But the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ never liked all these things. Instead, he got the reputation of being an honest and trustworthy young man. He was also known as a person who always spoke truth and never lied. People of Mecca used to hand over their valuables to him for safekeeping. So, he got the title “Al-Ameen, the Faithful” and “As-Sadiq, the Truthful.”

All this happened during the very early days of his manhood. Read in detail about the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ being As-Sadiq and Al-Ameen.

First Marriage of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

At the age of 25, when he was an established Sadiq and Ameen, he once again traveled to Syria for a mercantile tour for a rich and noble widow, Khadija. She selected him for her trading matters due to his reputation as Truthful and Faithful. At this point, both of them decided to marry. So, at the age of 25, he married Khadija, who was older than him.

This marriage proved to be a fortunate event in the life of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. She provided much-needed moral support to the Prophet during all his difficult times. Learn about the first marriage of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.

Role of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ in Rebuilding Ka’aba

When the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was 35 years old, the event of reconstruction of Ka’aba, the House of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ happened. This building had been a sacred place for the Meccans, even before the Islamic era. The black stone (Hajr Aswad) was also considered an important part of the building. All the tribes wanted to have the honor of placing Black Stone in their allocated space. So, it was feared that this would end up in a big battle between the tribes, as was the tradition of that era.

However, sanity prevailed, and it was decided by the elders of the Meccans that whoever entered the Ka’aba first in the morning would be the arbitrator between all the claimants. Eventually, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ entered the Ka’aba first in the morning. He was asked to handle the issue of placing Black Stone. The Prophet asked for a large piece of cloth.

He then put the Black Stone on this cloth and invited the leaders of all the tribes to hold a part of it and take it to the place where it was required to be installed. When done, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ placed the stone on the desired place. All the claimant tribes greatly appreciated this act of him. So, by doing this, he played a key role in averting the chances of a big battle between the tribes. To learn more about the role of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ in rebuilding Ka’aba, visit this page

Early Family Life of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

After his marriage with Khadija, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ lived a true family life. During that period, he took the responsibility of educating and raising his cousin Hazrat Ali رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, the son of his uncle Abu Talib. Sometimes later, he also adopted Akil, the other son of his uncle Abu Talib. Additionally, one of the slaves of Khadija, named Zaid bin Haritha was adopted as son by Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. Keep reading to learn more about the early life of Prophet Muhammand صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.

Prophethood of Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

From the very early days of his manhood, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ used to spend a lot of time away from his home, in a cave, known as the “cave of Hira“, situated on the top of the Mount Hira. Here he would spend his time in meditation and prayers, sometimes for the whole night. He used to deeply think about the creator of this universe, Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ.

During one such night, when he was 40 years old, he was busy with prayers and meditation in the cave. Suddenly, the Angel Gabriel appeared before him and said he is here to inform you that you are the Prophet and Messenger of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ sent to this world. The Angel asked him to “read”. Prophet said I cannot read. The Angel got hold of him, squeezed him, and again said, “Read.” The Prophet said I cannot read. The Angel repeated his action and finally, the Prophet could “read”. The phrases, which the Angel asked him to read were the first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq:

Translation

  1. Recite in the name of your Lord Who created
  2. created man from a clot of congealed blood
  3. Recite: and your Lord is Most Generous
  4. Who taught by the pen
  5. taught man what he did not know

These five verses are known as the first revelations sent by Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ to the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. This was the beginning of his Prophethood.

After this happening, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ returned to home. He shared this with his wife, Khadija. She said I stand witness to the fact that you are the Prophet sent by Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ. After that, she shared this with her cousin Waraqa bin Naufal. He was a man, a follower of Christianity, and was well aware of the facts mentioned in the scriptures of Jews and Christians. He told her that your husband was the Prophet and told him to be brave.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Started Preaching

After this happening, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, experienced a huge mental depression. At this point, the Archangel, Gabriel came with revelations, as mentioned in verses 1-3 of Surah Al-Muddathir:

Translation

  1. O you enveloped in your cloak!
  2. Arise, and warn
  3. and magnify the glory of your Lord

It was a clear message from Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ, urging him to start preaching. So, the Prophet started preaching to his people. His wife had already embraced Islam, and the next to do so was his cousin Hazrat Ali رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, followed by Zaid bin Haritha رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, who was the adopted son of the Prophet. Soon, quite a few notables of the Quraiysh tribe joined him, including Hazrat Abu Bakar رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, Hazrat Uthman رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, Hazrat Sa’ad bin Abi Waqas رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ and some more.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Starts Preaching Publicly

The preaching of the Prophet continued quietly for about three years. Now it was the time for him to expand the scope of his preaching. So, the Prophet decided to talk to the general public openly. He summoned the Meccans on a nearby hill and asked them to stop worshiping the Idols and start adopting the right path of worshiping the One Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ. Simultaneously, he reminded them of the fate of the previous nations, who did not follow the preaching of the Prophets sent to them. However, the Meccans were not inclined to leave the traditions of their ancestors, so they did not pay any attention to his preaching.

Then the Prophet decided to approach the visiting traders and pilgrims. The Quraysh also tried to stop the visitors meet him. But the message of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ did reach them, as he continued preaching boldly and loudly.

Persecutions of the Believers

Meanwhile, the pagans of Mecca started harassing the followers of the Prophet. They stopped the Prophet and his followers to offer prayers in Ka’aba. They would put thorns in their way. They threw filth and dirt on them when the believers were busy praying. The Meccans used every tactic to harass the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ and the newly convert Muslims. But they were unable to stop the Prophet from spreading the message of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ.

Despite all the persecutive actions, more people came under the umbrella of Islam, including the notables such as Hazrat Hamza رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ, who was his uncle and the youngest son of his grandfather Abdul Muttalib.

On the other hand, the anger of the pagans of Mecca was increasing day by day, as more people were embracing Islam. They started torturing the weak and the slaves, who decided to follow the right path. They dealt such people with immense cruelty. But the message of Allah رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ could not be stopped by them.

Attempt to Bribe the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

While the torturing of the poor and slaves continued, the Quraysh simultaneously tried to bribe the Prophet. They sent Utba ibn Rabi’a, one of the notables of the Quraysh tribe to offer the Prophet some lucrative benefits with the condition that he discontinue his preaching. Utba met the Prophet, asked him to stop preaching the new religion, and offered him the leadership of Mecca and wealth more than any of the Meccans possessed at that moment. He even offered him become the King. In the end, he also said that if he were in a state of mental disorder, they would bring the best of the physicians to treat him.

The Prophet patiently listened to his offers and recited the first 13 verses of Surah Fussilat:

  1. Ha’. Mim.
  2. This is a revelation from the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
  3. a Book whose verses have been well-expounded; an Arabic Qur’an for those who have knowledge,
  4. one bearing good news and warning. Yet most of them turned away and are not wont to give heed
  5. They say: “Our hearts are securely wrapped up against what you call us to, and in our ears is a heaviness, and between you and us there is a veil. So act; we too are acting.”
  6. Tell them, (O Prophet): “I am only a human being like you. It is revealed to me that your God is One God; so direct yourselves straight to Him, and seek His forgiveness. Woe to those who associate others with Allah in His Divinity,
  7. who do not pay Zakah, and who deny the Hereafter.
  8. As to those who have faith and do good works, surely theirs shall be a never-ending reward.
  9. Tell them, (O Prophet): “Do you indeed disbelieve in Him and assign compeers to Him Who created the earth in two days? He is the Lord of all beings of the Universe.
  10. (After creating the earth) He set up firm mountains on it, blessed it, and provided it with sustenance in proportion to the needs of all who seek (sustenance). All this was done in four days.
  11. Then He turned to the heaven while it was all smoke. He said to the heaven and the earth: “Come (into being), willingly or unwillingly.” They said: “Here we come (into being) in willing obeisance.”
  12. Then He made them seven heavens in two days and revealed to each heaven its law. And We adorned the lower heaven with lamps, and firmly secured it. All this is the firm plan of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing
  13. But if they turn away, tell them: “I warn you against a sudden scourge like that which struck Ad and Thamud.”

So, in this way, the Prophet refused to accept any of Utba’s temptations. Resultantly, the oppressive acts of the Quraysh increased, making life tough for Muslims.

First Migration in the History of Islam

In the 5th year of his Prophethood, when life became immensely tough for those of his followers, who did not have enough backing and support, the Prophet advised them to migrate to the nearby Kingdom of Abyssinia. The ruler of Abyssinia, Al-Najashi was known for his righteousness; hence it was a good opportunity for the new Muslims to take refuge there.

On the advice of the Prophet, fifteen people traveled to Abyssinia, where they were warmly welcomed. Once they settled there peacefully, more people migrated from Mecca to Abyssinia. 83 men and 18 women migrated to Abyssinia and settled there. This is known as the first-ever migration in the history of Islam.

Quraysh Approach Abu Talib

Abu Talib, the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was his great supporter and protector. The Quraysh approached him so he could stop his nephew from preaching Islam. Abu Talib talked to the Prophet but he refused to stop his mission. As a result, Abu Talib decided to protect his nephew from them.

He asked both the clans, Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib to support the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ so he may not be harmed by the pagans of Mecca. Both clans accepted the advice of Abu Talib, except Abu Lahab. Abu Lahab was also one of the uncles of the Prophet but he decided to go with the oppressors.

Hazrat Umar رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ Embraces Islam

Umar ibn Khattab was a strong personality in Mecca. He was one of the worst enemies of Islam. One day he planned to kill his sister, who had embraced Islam. When he reached her home, she was reciting the Quran. The verses of the Quran made a positive impact on his heart and mind. He totally changed his personality after listening to the Quranic verses and decided to adopt Islam.

Being a strong and powerful person among the Meccans, his inclusion in the followers of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ strengthened them. The impact of his adopting Islam was so much visible that Muslims started offering the Prayers, openly and publicly without any fear.

Shaub-e-Abi Talib شِعب أبي طالب

In the 7th year of the Prophethood of Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, the Quraysh tribe was practically divided into two factions, the one that was with the Prophet and those who were against him. The clans of Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib decided to protect the Prophet, except for Abu Lahab, who went with the oppressing group of Quraysh. Eventually, the Quraysh forced the Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib out of Mecca and they took refuge in a nearby valley, commonly known as Shaub-e-Abi Talib, (the valley of Abu Talib). They lived there for around three years.

After three years of exile, finally, the families of Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib were able to come back to Mecca through the mediation of Hisham and Zobair. This was the 10th year of the Prophethood.

Death of Abu Talib and Hazrat Khadija رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا

The 11th year of Islam came with two great losses to the Prophet. His uncle Abu Talib, who had supported him since his childhood, passed away. This was a great loss, as Abu Talib had been a great support for him till then. In the same year, his wife Hazrat Khadija رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا also died. She had been a great moral support for the Prophet throughout his Prophethood.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Travels to Ta’if

Although the Prophet was deeply sad about the demise of his uncle and wife, he did not leave his endeavor. He traveled to the nearby valley of Ta’if to spread his preaching to other places. Ta’if is situated some 60 miles away from Mecca. He traveled there with Zaid accompanying him. The people of Ta’if gave a cold reception to him. Despite their cold response, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ stayed here for around one month but without any positive result. Some miscreants of Ta’if injured him but even then, he stood firm and hopeful that they would finally turn to the right path.

After his return from Ta’if, he continued preaching among the groups of pilgrims. On one such occasion, a group of six people adopted Islam. They were from the town of Yathrib, which was later named Medina. They belonged to the Jewish tribe of Khazraj. They came back to Medina and told the locals that a Messenger and Prophet had emerged in Mecca, preaching the Oneness of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ.

The Miraj Night

The historic event of Miraj An-Nabi happened during the 12th year of Islam, also known as the “Night of Ascension”. One night, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, by the Will and Command of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ, traveled from Mecca to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. From there he ascended to the Heavens. This historical event is described in 1st verse of Surah Al-Isra.

Translation

Holy is He Who carried His servant by night from the Holy Mosque (in Makkah) to the farther Mosque (in Jerusalem) whose surroundings We have blessed that We might show him some of Our Signs. Indeed He alone is All-Hearing, All-Seeing

The five daily prayers were made obligatory for Muslims during this historic journey as a gift from Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ.

Islam Reaches Yathrib (Medina)

In the same year when the event of Miraj An-Nabi happened, some more people, mainly the Jews, came from Yathrib and embraced Islam. The visiting people also entered into an accord with the Prophet to go back to their town and stop worshiping Idols, refrain from evildoings, refrain from killing their daughters, and follow the righteous path of Islam. The Prophet sent one of his companions, Musab Ibn Umair with them so he could teach them the basics of Islam. Soon, the teachings of Islam spread all over the city of Yathrib.

Prophet’s Migration to Medina

While Islam was spreading fast in Yathrib (Medina), here in Mecca, the brutalities of Quraysh were reaching extremes. In the 13th year of Islam, Musab ibn Umair returned to Mecca with around 75 people, including two women. They invited the Prophet to migrate to Yathrib. After a brief discussion, the matter was settled between the visitors and the Prophet, commonly referred to as Bait-e-Aqaba بیعة العقبة (the covenant of Al-Aqaba).

After that accord, the Yathribites went back. The Prophet then advised his companions to leave Mecca with their families and reach Yathrib quietly. As a result, around 100 families successfully migrated to Yathrib. Eventually, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, his close companion Hazrat Abu Bakar and Hazrat Ali رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا were behind.

Meanwhile, the Meccans decided to kill the Prophet before he migrated to Yathrib. The Prophet asked his companion Hazrat Ali رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ to sleep at his place. He then left Meccas along with his companion Hazrat Abu Bakar رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ. They hid themselves in a cave known as Thaur (غار ثور). They stayed there for three nights for protection against the Meccans. Eventually, they reached Yathrib, where they were warmly welcomed.

This is known as the Hijra (Migration). The Islamic date system, also known as the Hira Calendar, starts from the date the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ from Mecca to Medina.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ Settles in Yathrib

After arriving in the city of Yathrib, the Prophet decided to temporarily stay with Amr ibn Auf for ten nights. At this place, he also established the first Mosque of Islam, known as Masjid Quba. After ten nights, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ moved forward while mounting on his She-Camel.

The Prophet’s she-camel eventually knelt at a place, which was owned by two orphan boys, Sahl and Suhail. This place was used as a date yard then. The Prophet decided to stay here. He asked the two boys to sell this place to him but they offered it as a gift to the Prophet. The Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ started construction of a Mosque here. He, himself physically took part in its construction work, along with his followers. Eventually, the Mosque was completed and is referred to as “Masjid An-Nabi.” It was a very simple construction at that time. The Prophet used to address the Muslims in this mosque. It was used as a religious as well as community service for Muslims.

Once the Prophet and his companions settled in Yathrib, it was given the new name “Medina Tu-Nabi,” which means “the city of the Prophet.” Another name given to this city was “Al-Medina Al-Munawwara.” Later, the name of this city became “Medina.” Medina is the Arabic word for City.

Establishment of an Islamic State in Medina

Before the Prophet’s migration, Medina was home to two rival tribes, Bani Aus and Bani Khazraj. After the migration of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ to Medina, both these tribes adopted Islam and soon their old rivalry vanished. All the Muslim residents of Medina, including both these tribes, were collectively given the title “The Helpers”, (Arabic Ansaar). On the other hand, those who migrated from Mecca were titled “The Emigrants”, (Arabic Muhajir). Soon, a historical and unprecedented bond developed between both the Ansaar and the Muhajirin as a result of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.

Apart from these two tribes, there was another noticeable community in Medina: the Jews. Once the tribes of Aus and Khazraj embraced Islam and became the “Ansaar,” the only problem left was the Jews. The Prophet soon entered into a contract with them based on the policy of coexistence and combined defense against the enemies of both Muslims and Jews. So, the City of Medina was declared a sacred place for all those who would accept this treaty.

So, the first Islamic state was established in Medina under the leadership of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. With that, all the old rivalries and conflicts ended, and a peaceful Islamic state emerged.

The Hypocrites of Medina

Led by Abdullah Ibn Ubai, a group of new converts in Medina apparently adopted Islam but were still inclined towards Idolatry. Historically, they are known as Hypocrites, “Munafiqeen.” They consistently posed an inner danger to the newly formed Islamic State. The Prophet maintained a lenient view of them, hoping that they would finally come to the truth. Eventually, the group vanished after the death of their leader, Abdullah Ibn Ubai.

On the other hand, the Jews were a real danger to the Islamic State. Despite all the favors and patience exhibited by the Prophet towards them, the Jews did not remain loyal to him. Finally, they openly declared their inclination towards the Idolatry. They joined hands with the enemies of Islam, the Meccans, and were found transmitting secret information to the Quraysh of Mecca. Some of them were also executed for their betrayal.

Islamic Battles – The Ghazwat

Ghazwa (غَزْوَة) is the name given in Islam to those wars and battles in which the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ  himself physically participated:

· The War of Badr – First Islamic Battle

The first such war is known as Ghazwa-e-Badr, ‘The Battle of Badr”. This war took place in the 2nd year of Hijrah. Then, Muslims were comparatively weak against the Meccans. But with the Will and Command of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ, they returned triumphant, under the leadership of the Prophet. It is mentioned in the Quran in the 123rd of Surah Al-e-Imran:

Translation

For sure Allah helped you at Badr when you were utterly weak. Beware, then, of Allah; perhaps you will be thankful.

· The War of Uhud – A Lesson for Muslims

Known as Ghazwa-e-Uhud, the second battle between the Meccans and Muslims, the battle of Uhud was a lesson for Muslims. The Islamic forces were weakened due to the betrayal of the hypocrites of Medina, as some 300 of them left the Islamic army. Despite that, the Prophet decided to continue the battle. He deployed 50 men on the top of the hill behind the Islamic Army and advised them not to leave their place, whatever might be the outcome of the war.

The Muslim forces nearly won the war. However, the 50 men deployed by the Prophet on the hilltop, left their place. Resultantly, the enemies attacked from the rear side and the outcome was that the Muslims lost this crucial war. All this happened only due to the non-adherence to the advice of the Prophet. Muslims suffered casualties and even injury to the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. This event is narrated in the 152nd verse of Surah Al-e-Imran:

Translation

Allah surely fulfilled His promise (of succour) when you were slaying them by His leave until the moment when you flagged and quarrelled among yourselves about the matter, and acted against the order of (the Prophet). Soon He showed you what you had intensely desired – for some among you sought this world and some of you sought the Next. Thereupon, in order to put you to a test He turned you away from your foes. Still He pardoned you after that for Allah is Bounteous to those who believe.

· The War of the Trench – Ghazwa-e-Khandaq

Immediately after the battle of Uhud, Meccans again gathered a huge army of around ten thousand soldiers to attack Medina. They reached the mount Uhud. Meanwhile, Muslims managed an army of around three thousand. Hence, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ decided to go defensive. A trench was dug around the open areas of Medina, from where the enemy’s forces could enter the city. Meccan forces were left helpless against this strategy and eventually had to go back without any war or success. This historic event is referred to as Ghazwa-e-Khandaq or the War of the Trench. It is narrated in the Quran in Surah Al-Ahzab, verses 9 to 27:

· The War of Khayber

The war of Khayber was fought between the Muslims and the Jews in later years. Khayber had a stronghold of Jews then. They had several fortresses there. They were trying to ally with other tribes, like the Ghaftans, to fight against Muslims and knowing that the Prophet sent an army of around 1400 soldiers to fight Jews. Meanwhile, the Jews were left alone, as all their allies decided not to fight with Muslims. Eventually, Muslims returned triumphant.

The Historic Treaty of Hudaybiya

In the 6th year after the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ wished to travel to Mecca for the pilgrimage of Ka’aba. So, around seven to eight hundred Muslims started their journey to Mecca during the pilgrimage season. This was entirely a religious trip; hence they were totally unarmed. On the other hand, the Meccans decided not to allow them to enter the city of Mecca.

After hectic negotiations, a historic treaty was made between the Meccans and the Muslims. This is known as the “Treaty of Hudaybiya”. It was agreed that both the Quraysh and Muslims would not fight with each other for the next ten years. It was also decided that Muslims would go back this time and can come for pilgrimage, next year. So, the Prophet returned to Medina with his followers.

The Prophet Performs Pilgrimage with his Followers

As per the treaty of Hudaybiya, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ reached Mecca with his 200 followers to perform pilgrimage. This was a ritual spread over three days. During these three days, the Quraysh left Mecca, allowing Muslims to perform the pilgrimage peacefully.

Muslims returned safely to Medina after this historic event. Soon after this, two notables of Quraysh, Khalid Ibn Al-Waleed and Amr Ibn Al-Aas رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا adopted Islam.

The Message of Islam Was Sent Beyond Arab

It was the sixth year after Hijrah when the Prophet decided to spread the message of Islam to the world beyond the Arab. Ambassadors were sent to the Persian King Perviz and the Roman Emperor Herculis. Similarly, another envoy was sent to the Ghassanite tribe.

Persian King Perviz mistreated the envoy and tore the letter of the Prophet into pieces. The Prophet responded with this saying, so will the Persian Kingdom’s fate. Herculis, however, gave full respect to the envoy. On the other hand, the Ghassanite tribe brutally murdered the envoy.

Conquest of Mecca

When the Quraysh breached the terms of the Treaty of Hudaybiya by attacking the tribe of Bani Khuzaah, who were Muslims’ allies, the Prophet decided to attack Mecca and take control of the City and the Holy Ka’aba. An army of around ten thousand was prepared to march towards Mecca in the seventh year after Hijrah.

The Islamic forces reached Mecca and decided to stop there. The following day, Abu Sufyan was sent to the Prophet by the Quraysh to ask him to stop his endeavor. However, on that occasion, Abu Sufyan رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ decided to adopt Islam.

Consequently, the City of Meccas fell to the Prophet without resistance, except for a limited battle with a few small tribes. The Prophet entered the City of Meccas riding his camel, Al-Kaswa while reciting the first three verses of Surah Al-Fath:

Translation

  1. (O Prophet), surely We have granted you a clear victory
  2. so that Allah may forgive you your shortcomings, whether earlier or later, and may complete His favours upon you and guide you to the Straight Way,
  3. and that Allah may bestow upon you a mighty help.

The Prophet announced amnesty for all peaceful Meccans. He ordered the destruction of all Idols installed in the Holy Ka’aba, and he participated in this important task. Eventually, the House of Allah was cleared of all the Idols.

The Battle of Hunain

Soon after the fall of Mecca, the tribes of Hawazin and Thakif showed resistance. They allied to fight with the Prophet. However, they were defeated after a big battle known as the Battle of Hunain. Many of their people were enslaved by the Muslims. However, the Prophet and his followers freed them in response to a request. Resultantly, most of them embraced Islam.

The Impact of the Conquest of Mecca

After the conquest of Mecca, Islam spread quickly among the Arabs. The people of Ta’if accepted Islam after a bit of reluctance. Other tribes and nations such as Yemen, Yamama, and Oman submitted to the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ and accepted Islam. The majority of the Meccans also embraced Islam. By the 9th year after Hijrah, Islam had spread widely in and around Mecca. By the tenth year after Hijrah, Islam had spread over vast areas of Arab.

The Last Pilgrimage and the Last Sermon of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

In the 10th year after Hijrah, the Prophet Muhammad and some forty thousand Muslims performed his first and last Hajj. On this occasion, he delivered the Khutba-e-Hajj, also known as his “Last Sermon.”

It was a comprehensive speech, which he delivered from the top of the mount Arafat. He stressed following Islam’s teachings and remaining kind to fellow Muslim brethren. He emphasized that there is no superiority in the language or the tribe; the one who is more pious and follows the spirit of Islam is superior to others. At the end, he exclaimed, “O Lord, I have fulfilled my message and accomplished my work.” The assembled multitude, all in one voice, cried: “Yea, verily you have.” The Prophet again exclaimed: “O Lord, I beseech You, bear witness to it.”

After that, he performed each ritual of Hajj in a way that the Muslims would follow for centuries to come.

He then returned to Medina and spent most of his time managing the affairs of the Muslim State. He deputed different persons in the other parts of the Muslim state with precise instructions to follow justice while deciding on various matters between the people. He instructed the officials not to give a verdict without listening to the rival parties.

False Prophets

During the last days of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, there emerged some people who presented themselves as Prophet. The most serious case was that of one, namely Al-Aswad. He belonged to Yemen and had killed the Governor Shahr, who was appointed by the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. However, Al-Aswad was soon killed by the Persian people of Yemen. Two other false Prophets, Tulaya and Haroun, commonly known as “Musailmah” the Lier were killed during the Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ.

Death of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ

The Prophet’s health started deteriorating. However, during his sickness, he continued to lead the prayers. However, in the last few days before his death, he did not appear in the Mosque to lead the prayers. On his last appearance in the Mosque, he addressed the people for the last time.

Soon after his last address to his followers, he returned to his home. Eventually, he died on 12th Rabi Al-Awwal, 11 AH, on 8th June 632 CE. Muslims could not believe this sad news. They gathered in front of the home of the Prophet. At this point of time, Hazrat Abu Bakr رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ entered the home and confirmed the sad demise of the Prophet. He then delivered a speech in front of the crowd, making them realize that Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was a Messenger and Prophet, who has died. He then reminded them of the 144th verse of Surah Al-e-Imran:

Translation

Muhammad is no more than a Messenger, and Messengers have passed away before him. If, then, he were to die or be slain would you turn about on your heels? Whoever turns about on his heels can in no way harm Allah. As for the grateful ones, Allah will soon reward them.

At this, the crowd realized that the Prophet had died, so they dispersed.

After a little debate between the Ansaar and the Quraysh, it was decided on the advice of Hazrat Abu Bakr رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ to bury the Prophet in the same place where he breathed his last. Accordingly, the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ was laid to rest in the house of Hazrat Ayasha رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا.

The life of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ ended but his teachings will last forever. Every Muslim loves to follow his Sunnah. The Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ is the comprehensive and ultimate guidance towards living a true Muslim life.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR