Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Early Life and Background

Born in Makkah around 570 CE into the noble clan of Banū Hāshim, Muhammad (peace be upon him) was orphaned early and raised by his grandfather and uncle. Known as al-Amīn (“the Trustworthy”) for his honesty, he worked as a merchant and married Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), who supported him deeply. His periods of reflection in the Cave of Ḥirāʾ prepared him for divine revelation.

The Beginning of Revelation

At the age of 40, while in solitude at Ḥirāʾ, the Angel Jibrīl (Gabriel) brought him the first verses of the Qur’an: «Recite in the Name of your Lord who created, created man from a clinging substance. Recite, and your Lord is the Most Generous, Who taught by the pen, taught man that which he knew not.» (Qur’an 96:1–5).

Strengthened by Khadijah’s faith and Waraqah’s confirmation, he accepted his mission. First preaching privately, then publicly, he called people to pure monotheism, justice, and compassion.

Persecution and the Hijrah

The Quraysh opposed his message fiercely. Some Muslims sought refuge in Abyssinia, and the Prophet’s clan suffered boycott and hardship. After the “Year of Sorrow,” he was invited by people from Yathrib to lead them. In 622 CE, he migrated to Yathrib. Later known as Al-Madīnah al-Munawwarah, marking the Hijrah, the beginning of the Islamic calendar and a new era for the Muslim community.

The Prophet in Madīnah

In Madinah, the Prophet (peace be upon him) united the Muhājirūn (emigrants) and Anṣār (helpers), built the mosques of Qubāʾ and al-Masjid an-Nabawī, and established the Constitution of Madinah, a pact of justice and cooperation among Muslims, Jews, and other groups. It guaranteed freedom of religion and mutual defense, forming a peaceful, ethical society guided by revelation.

Challenges and Battles

Hostilities from Quraysh led to key battles: Badr (624 CE), a miraculous victory; Uḥud (625 CE), a test of discipline and faith; and Al-Khandaq (627 CE), where the siege of Madinah ended in the Muslims’ favor. The Treaty of Ḥudaybiyyah (628 CE) established peace, allowing Islam to spread widely through Arabia as the Prophet sent letters to kings and leaders.

The Conquest of Makkah and Final Years

In 630 CE, the Prophet (peace be upon him) entered Makkah peacefully, granting a general amnesty to his former enemies. The Kaʿbah was cleansed of idols and rededicated to Allah. In 632 CE, during the Farewell Pilgrimage, he delivered his Farewell Sermon, affirming the equality of all humans, the sanctity of life, and justice for all. Soon after, he passed away in Madinah, completing the line of prophethood.

Summary and Legacy

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called humanity to taqwā (God-consciousness), sincerity, and moral excellence. He built a just and compassionate community grounded in faith and mercy. His life remains the best example (al-Uswah al-Ḥasanah) for all who seek to live righteously and remember Allah often.