Introduction

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the final messenger of Islam, is a figure whose influence transcends religious boundaries. Revered by over a billion Muslims worldwide as the “Seal of the Prophets,” Muhammad (PBUH) delivered the divine message of the Quran and established a spiritual, moral, and social order that transformed not only the Arabian Peninsula but the entire world. His life serves as a complete model for humanity — in personal character, leadership, family life, governance, and devotion to God.

This article explores the life, mission, character, and enduring legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), illuminating why he remains the most influential figure in human history.

1. Early Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Muhammad ibn Abdullah (PBUH) was born in the year 570 CE in Mecca, into the noble clan of Banu Hashim, part of the powerful Quraysh tribe. His father, Abdullah, died before his birth, and his mother, Amina, passed away when he was six years old, leaving him an orphan. He was raised first by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib and later by his uncle Abu Talib.

Despite the challenges of orphanhood, Muhammad (PBUH) grew up known for his honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness, earning the title Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy) among his people. As a young man, he worked as a merchant and managed trading caravans, gaining a reputation for fairness and high moral conduct.

At the age of 25, he married Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, a wealthy and respected businesswoman who recognized his noble character. Their marriage was a happy and supportive one, blessed with several children, including their beloved daughter Fatimah (RA).

2. The Beginning of Prophethood

Muhammad (PBUH) was deeply disturbed by the moral decay, idolatry, injustice, and ignorance that plagued Meccan society. He would often retreat to the Cave of Hira in Mount Noor to meditate and reflect.

At the age of 40, during one such retreat, he received the first revelation from Allah through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel):

“Read in the name of your Lord who created—
Created man from a clot.
Read, and your Lord is the Most Generous—
Who taught by the pen—
Taught man that which he knew not.”
(Quran 96:1-5)

This marked the beginning of his prophethood and the mission to convey the message of monotheism (Tawheed) — the worship of the One True God, Allah.

Initially, the message was shared privately, then publicly after three years. Despite severe opposition, mockery, and persecution, the Prophet (PBUH) remained steadfast in his call to faith, patience, compassion, and social reform.

3. The Message of Islam

The core message brought by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) centered on:

• Monotheism: Worship of Allah alone, without partners.
• Justice: Social and economic fairness, protection of the weak, and abolition of exploitation.
• Moral Integrity: Truthfulness, compassion, forgiveness, and modesty.
• Spiritual Development: Prayer, remembrance of God, and purification of the soul.
• Community Building: Brotherhood among believers, charity, and communal responsibility.

He taught that all humans are equal before Allah, and that virtue, not race, lineage, or wealth, determines superiority:

“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another.
Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.”
(Quran 49:13)

4. The Challenges Faced

The early Muslims in Mecca faced relentless persecution. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself endured physical and emotional abuse, boycotts, and threats to his life. Yet, he responded not with revenge, but with unwavering patience and forgiveness.

In the year 622 CE, due to increasing hostility, Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated to Yathrib (later called Madinah), an event known as the Hijrah. This migration marked a turning point in Islamic history, establishing the first Muslim community based on justice, brotherhood, and faith.

5. The Establishment of the Islamic State in Madinah

In Madinah, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) became not only a religious leader but also a political leader and statesman. He drafted the Constitution of Madinah, a pioneering document ensuring religious freedom and rights for all citizens, including Muslims, Jews, and pagans.

Key features of the Madinan society included:

• Equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens.
• Freedom of religion and practice.
• Protection of the oppressed.
• Resolution of disputes through mutual consultation.
• Mutual defense against external aggression.

This demonstrated the Prophet’s skills in governance, diplomacy, and conflict resolution.

6. The Character of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

The Quran itself testifies to the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):

“And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”
(Quran 68:4)

Some of his outstanding traits include:

• Mercy: The Prophet (PBUH) was described as a “mercy to the worlds” (Quran 21:107). He forgave enemies even when he had the upper hand, such as during the conquest of Mecca.
• Humility: Despite his leadership position, he lived simply, mended his clothes, and served his family.
• Patience: Despite immense hardship, he remained patient and hopeful.
• Generosity: He gave charity frequently and never turned away a person in need.
• Trustworthiness: He was trusted even by his enemies.

Even his fiercest critics, such as the historian Sir William Muir, acknowledged the impeccable honesty and integrity of Muhammad (PBUH).

7. Major Events During His Life

• Battle of Badr (624 CE): The first major battle where the Muslims, though outnumbered, achieved victory with Allah’s help.
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah (628 CE): A peace treaty with the Quraysh that paved the way for the spread of Islam.
• Conquest of Mecca (630 CE): Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) entered Mecca peacefully, forgave his enemies, and removed the idols from the Kaaba, restoring it to the worship of Allah alone.
• Farewell Pilgrimage and Final Sermon (632 CE): During his final pilgrimage, he delivered a sermon emphasizing human equality, rights of women, sanctity of life and property, and adherence to the Quran and his Sunnah.

“I leave behind me two things, the Quran and my Sunnah, and if you follow these, you will never go astray.”

Shortly after, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away in Madinah at the age of 63.

8. The Legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

The impact of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is unparalleled:

• Religious Legacy: Through the Quran and Sunnah, he provided a complete way of life — from worship to ethics, law to spirituality.
• Moral and Social Reform: He uplifted the status of women, abolished unjust customs (like infanticide), and promoted compassion and social justice.
• Global Civilization: The Islamic civilization that followed made remarkable contributions to science, medicine, philosophy, architecture, and literature.
• Model for Humanity: His life serves as a blueprint for individuals seeking excellence in character, leadership, family life, and community building.

Michael H. Hart, in his book “The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History”, placed Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) first, highlighting his unmatched influence both religiously and secularly.

9. Love and Reverence for the Prophet (PBUH)

Muslims love Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) more than themselves. Sending blessings upon him (Salawat) is a core practice, as Allah commands:

“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet.
O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace.”
(Quran 33:56)

Following his Sunnah is an act of love and devotion, with the Prophet stating:

“None of you will have faith until he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.”
(Sahih Bukhari)

Conclusion

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stands as the greatest benefactor of humanity. His life illuminates the path of righteousness, compassion, justice, and God-consciousness. As the final messenger, his teachings and example continue to guide and inspire millions across the globe.

Through his relentless patience, profound mercy, unmatched leadership, and deep devotion to Allah, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) left an indelible mark on history — a legacy that is not merely remembered but lived by those who follow his message.

“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad), you have a good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah often.”
(Quran 33:21)