Who Is Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)? A Beginner’s Guide To The Final Messenger
Discover the extraordinary life of the final Messenger of God. As the last Prophet sent to guide humanity, Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life and teachings continue to influence the faith and lives of over a billion Muslims worldwide, solidifying his place as one of the most revered figures in history.
This introductory guide will delve into his remarkable journey, his unwavering message of monotheism, and his enduring commitment to social justice and moral excellence. Whether new to Islam or seeking to deepen your understanding, this guide offers valuable insights into his role and legacy.
Learning about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) enhances your knowledge of Islam and fosters love and admiration for him as your Prophet. It strengthens your relationship with Allah, providing essential context for understanding the Quran and Hadith. Through studying his life, you’ll find inspiration for resilience, strengthen your faith, and gain a deeper appreciation of Islam’s rich history and ongoing growth.
In this Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) guide, you will learn:
- Who Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was and his importance in Islam
- His connection to other prophets
- Key milestones in his life
- His role in the Revelation of the Quran
- Core teachings and the importance of the Sunnah
- Why Muslims revere him without worshipping him
- His lasting global impact
- Potential Biblical prophecies related to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Common misconceptions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) clarified
- Answers to frequently asked questions about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
This guide offers key insights into Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life, teachings, and influence for newcomers and those deepening their understanding of Islam.
Note: Muslims say Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam ﷺ (peace & blessing be upon him– sometimes abbreviated as PBUH after the name or mention of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as a sign of respect, reverence, and supplication for peace and blessings to be bestowed upon him, per following the teaching of the Quran.
Understanding Islamic Prophets and Messengers of God
To understand who Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was, it’s essential to grasp the concept of prophethood in Islam. The world’s major religions share a common thread: the belief in Prophets and Messengers sent by God to guide humanity. Muslims, like Jews and Christians, revere figures such as Noah, Moses, and Abraham (peace be upon them all).
These Prophets delivered a consistent message: to worship God alone and follow His commandments. However, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ holds a unique position in Islam as the final Prophet, sent for all of humanity until the end of time.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him) stands as the final link in the long chain of Islamic prophets and messengers of God.
Prophethood in Islam:
- Islam recognizes numerous prophets and messengers of Allah
- Prophets in Islam include figures like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them)
- Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is considered the last Messenger, marking the finality of prophethood
Prophets were sent to reform the message of monotheism when it became distorted by men
Prophet Jesus (PBUH) was sent after Prophet Moses (PBUH) to reform the message of Moses (PBUH) of monotheism and restore the divine teachings that had been altered after Prophet Moses’ PBUH passing. However, most of Prophet Jesus’ (PBUH) people rejected him and attempted to crucify him. God protected Prophet Jesus (PBUH) from harm by raising him to the heavens.
Muslim reverence for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Muslims believe in Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) message and strive to follow his guidance. When they declare their faith in the One God, they also affirm their belief in the last Messenger of God. They regard the Prophet so highly that disrespect toward him is emotionally painful.
For Muslims, belief in the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the final Messenger is integral to their faith. They:
- Love and respect him as the Prophet of Allah
- Follow his teachings as outlined in the Quran and Hadith
- Consider him the best example of humanity
Clarifying a misconception: Muslims do not worship Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
It is essential to clarify that Muslims do not worship Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Instead, they revere him as the final Messenger in the line of Islamic prophets and believe that his mission was the ultimate fulfillment of the long line of Messengers of God in Islam that began with Prophet Adam (PBUH) and culminated in him.
- Muslims do not worship him or attribute divine characteristics to him
- Islam emphasizes monotheism (Tawhid), with worship directed solely to Allah
The concept of Sunnah: emulating Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The character of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) understood the Qur’an, loved its teachings, and lived by its principles. His life is a shining example of outstanding virtues and characteristics, making him a perfect role model for all humankind. He was an exemplary husband, father, grandfather, leader, teacher, judge, and statesman. He preached justice, fairness, peace, and love, becoming a pivotal figure in Islamic prophethood. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
- Justice and fairness
- Peace and love
- Patience and compassion
- Righteousness and piety
He is revered as:
- The world’s best role model for all humanity
- A man of outstanding virtues and characteristics
- An exemplary husband, father, and grandfather
- A visionary leader, teacher, judge, and statesman
Muslims emulate Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in their daily lives
Muslims worldwide strive to emulate Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) faith, behavior, patience, charity, compassion, and righteousness. This practice is called following the Sunnah, which refers to following the Prophet’s words, actions, and way of life. Whether in prayer, daily habits, or social interactions, Muslims seek to mirror the way the Prophet of Allah lived and taught.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life was a living embodiment of the teachings of the Quran. By following his Sunnah, believers strive to draw closer to Allah, enriching their lives and securing rewards in the afterlife. His actions, words, and guidance offer a timeless blueprint for leading a life of faith, morality, and spiritual fulfillment.
What is the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?
Muslims strive to emulate the Prophet’s behavior, attitude, and faith daily. Emulating Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is called ‘Sunnah,’ which means “the way” or “practice of.” Following the Sunnah makes life easier in this world and the next. It covers various aspects of life, from eating and sleeping to social interactions and worship.
- Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encompasses the Prophet’s sayings, actions, and approvals
- Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) covers various aspects of life, from worship to social interactions
- Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as a practical guide for Muslims and expands upon how to implement Quranic teachings
Importance of Sunnah in Muslim life
The comprehensiveness way of Islam allows Muslims to integrate every aspect of life into worship, turning even mundane actions like eating, drinking, or sleeping into acts of devotion. Following the Sunnah:
- Transform everyday actions into acts of worship
- Bring rewards and blessings in this life and the hereafter for those followers
The Qur’an beautifully states:
There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah often. (Quran 33:21)
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) story: summary of His life and mission
Early life and challenges
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born around 570 CE in the city of Mecca, located in the Arabian Peninsula, approximately 570 years after the birth of Prophet Jesus (PBUH). Mecca, home of the Kaaba, built by Prophets Abraham (PBUH) and his son Prophet Ishmael (PBUH), had been corrupted and was a center of idol worship. The society was characterized by ignorance, superstition, and moral decay.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) early life was marked by hardship and loss; he was orphaned at a young age and raised by his uncle Abu Talib. At four, he underwent a miraculous cleansing by Angel Gabriel, setting the stage for his future role.
Despite the challenging environment, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known for his exceptional character and integrity from an early age. In his youth, he worked as a merchant and shepherd, gaining a reputation for fairness and dedication. His community recognized him as As-Sadiq” (the truthful) and Al-Amin (the trustworthy), testifying to his impeccable integrity.
A blessed union: Khadijah (R.A.) and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) married Khadijah, an older and widowed woman who was a wealthy and respected businesswoman. She brought him love, as well as emotional and financial stability. Their bond would prove crucial during the challenges ahead.
Restoring the Kaaba: A SIGN OF UNITY
When the Kaaba was destroyed in a flood, a dispute arose among the Quraysh tribes about who would place the Black Stone (Al-Hajar Al-Aswad) in its rightful place. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was asked to mediate, and he resolved the dispute by suggesting that the stone be placed on a cloth. Each tribe’s leader would hold a corner of the fabric to lift the stone together while he (PBUH) put it in position. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) wisdom in resolving a dispute among the tribes hinted at his future role in uniting the people.
Divine revelation
At 40, while reflecting in the Cave of Hira, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received his first divine Revelation from Allah (God) through the Angel Gabriel. The first Revelation, beginning with the command “Read!” (Iqra), filled Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with both fear and awe. Initially uncertain about the nature of this experience, he sought comfort and reassurance from his wife, Khadijah (R.A.), and her cousin, Waraqah ibn Nawfal (R.A.), who confirmed the authenticity of his prophethood.
This event, known as the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr), marked the beginning of his prophethood and the 23-year gradual Revelation of the Quran, which became the foundation of Islamic faith and practice. Following this life-changing event, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) dedicated the rest of his life to:
- explaining the teachings of the Quran
- living according to Islamic principles
- guiding others toward monotheism, righteousness, and the teachings of the Quran
Spreading the message: from private to public
In the early days, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) quietly shared Islam’s message with close friends and family. Over time, a small but devoted group of followers formed. Soon, God commanded him to proclaim Islam publicly and denounce idolatry, which led to growing opposition and hardship.
As Islam gained more attention, the Quraysh increased their resistance. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers faced mockery, social isolation, and even physical persecution. Despite the escalating challenges, his unwavering commitment to the message of monotheism inspired others, further strengthening the early Muslim community’s resolve and faith.
Persecution of the early believers
Despite Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) reputation for honesty, many in Mecca rejected his message. A large-scale campaign was launched to persecute those who embraced Islam. The early Muslims faced severe hardships, including torture, imprisonment, and even death, as attempts to suppress the new faith intensified. However, their unwavering belief in Islam only strengthened. This period of persecution led to a significant turning point in Islamic history, including the first migration to Abyssinia, where early Muslims sought refuge.
Seeking refuge: the first migration
Faced with relentless persecution, a group of early Muslims sought refuge in Abyssinia. This migration, known as the first Hijrah, was a testament to their unwavering faith and courage. The Christian King of Abyssinia granted them protection, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history and showcasing the solidarity between the early Muslim community and those who supported their quest for religious freedom.
Miracles and opposition: a test of faith
The idol worshippers of Mecca demanded a miracle as proof of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) prophethood, asking him to split the moon. By Allah’s will, he performed the miracle, but many still rejected it, accusing him of sorcery. As the message of Islam continued to spread, opposition intensified, culminating in a severe boycott of the Muslim community. These trials tested the early believers’ faith and strengthened their resilience and commitment to the growing Islamic movement.
The year of sorrow: loss and resilience
The deaths of his uncle Abu Talib and his wife Khadijah (R.A.) marked a difficult year for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), compounded by rejection in Taif. Yet, hope emerged with the pledges of support from the people of Yathrib (later Medina). These pledges, known as the First and Second Pledges of Aqabah, laid the foundation for the Hijrah and the first Islamic state. Despite the loss of his closest supporters, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) drew strength from his faith in Allah, guiding the Muslim community toward a new chapter in Islamic history.
Isra (The Night Journey) and Mi’raj (The Ascension): the miraculous journey
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) miraculous Night Journey (Isra) and Ascension (Mi’raj) took him from Mecca to Jerusalem and through the heavens, where he met earlier prophets and communicated with Allah. This profound event strengthened his faith, reaffirmed his divine mission, and established the five daily prayers as a cornerstone of Islamic practice. The journey remains a powerful reminder of Allah’s power and the unseen world, highlighting the Prophet’s unique status as Allah’s final Messenger.
The Hijra: A New Beginning in Medina
In 622 CE, after 13 years of preaching in Mecca and facing hostility, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated to Medina. This strategic migration provided sanctuary and established the first Islamic state, uniting diverse tribes under a common constitution. The Hijra was a turning point in Islamic history, symbolizing the Muslim community’s resilience and marking the Islamic calendar’s start.
Building a community: Medina’s transformation
In Medina, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) united various tribes under Islam, creating a just and cohesive society. He established the first Islamic state, built Masjid Quba, and implemented Islamic law and social reforms. By forming treaties with neighboring tribes and Jewish communities, he fostered peace and stability, allowing the Muslim community to grow stronger and more unified.
Battles and triumphs: defending the faith
Facing aggression from Meccan idol worshippers, the Muslims fought in critical battles such as Badr, Uhud, and the Battle of the Trench. Despite challenges, their resilience and reliance on divine help led to valuable lessons and/or victories. The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah became a turning point, paving the way for the conquest of Mecca and the rapid spread of Islam.
Major battles and expansion of Islam:
- Battle of Badr (624 CE): First major victory
- Battle of Uhud (625 CE): Suffered some losses but learned key lessons
- Battle of the Trench (627 CE): Successfully defended Medina against the Meccan coalition
- Conquest of Mecca (630 CE): Peaceful takeover and destruction of idols
The conquest of Mecca: a bloodless victory
In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) returned to Mecca with an army of 100,000, leading a peaceful conquest. He granted amnesty to his former persecutors, destroyed the idols, and reclaimed the Kaaba for the worship of one God.
The farewell Hajj: a legacy of unity
In 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed his final pilgrimage and delivered his last sermon, highlighting equality, justice, and adherence to the Quran and Sunnah. This sermon continues to serve as a guide for unity within the Muslim community.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) final years and legacy: a mercy to mankind
After a brief illness, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away in 632 CE at the age of 63 in Medina. His legacy as a prophet, leader, and a source of mercy for humanity continues to inspire millions worldwide. Allah says:
And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds. (Quran 21:107)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) prophesied in the Bible
Building bridges with Christians
Some Muslims reference biblical passages in Christian discussions to foster dialogue and mutual understanding. They suggest that if Christians believe in the Bible, they should consider the possibility that certain verses point to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a prophesied figure. This approach seeks to create common ground and encourage a deeper exploration of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) potential role as mentioned in biblical texts.
Limited reliance on Biblical prophecies: secondary arguments
While these biblical references are sometimes used in interfaith discussions, Muslims do not rely on the Bible as evidence of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) prophethood. This is because Muslims believe the Bible has been altered over time, making the Quran their definitive source of guidance.
The Quran: The Ultimate Proof of Prophethood
The Quran is the evidence of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) prophethood for Muslims. Believed to be God’s direct, unaltered word, the Quran contains miracles and profound wisdom beyond human capability, affirming its divine origin.
Prophecies of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the New Testament
The coming of the advocate
In the Bible, Jesus (PBUH) is quoted as saying, Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you (John 16:7). Muslims interpret this verse as a reference to the coming of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), sent by God to restore His message of monotheism after the message of Jesus (PBUH) was distorted.
The spirit of truth
Jesus (PBUH) also says, When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth (John 16:13). Muslims believe the spirit of truth refers to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who delivered God’s final Revelation, the Quran. Just as Jesus (PBUH) restored the teachings of Moses (PBUH), Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) corrected the distortions in Jesus’ (PBUH) message.
Glorification of Jesus
In John 16:14, Jesus (PBUH) says, He shall glorify me. This can be seen as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) honoring and affirming Jesus’ message, aligning with the Islamic teachings that respect Jesus (PBUH) as a great prophet.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the Paraclete
Muslims interpret the term “Paraclete” as referring to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – the comforter and helper promised by Prophet Jesus (PBUH). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) glorified Jesus (PBUH) in the Quran, built upon his teachings, and conveyed God’s final Revelation to humanity.
Prophecies in the Old Testament
The Prophet, like Moses
Deuteronomy 18:18 states, I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him. While some Christians interpret this as referring to Jesus (PBUH), Muslims believe it aligns more closely with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as both he and Moses (PBUH) share numerous similarities:
- both had parents and led family lives, unlike Jesus (PBUH).
- both died natural deaths.
- both were lawgivers and led their communities to freedom.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as a descendant of Ishmael (PBUH), is from the “brethren” of the Israelites, fulfilling this prophecy.
Summary
While Muslims may reference biblical prophecies during interfaith discussions to engage with Christians, they primarily rely on the Quran as the ultimate and unaltered proof of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) prophethood. The Quran is God’s final word, offering definitive evidence of his divine mission.
Conclusion: the enduring legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is one of history’s most influential figures, whose life and teachings have shaped spiritual, social, political, and ethical norms. For Muslims, his life is a practical guide for implementing Quranic teachings, offering timeless lessons in personal ethics, social justice, and spiritual growth. His legacy inspires individuals to strive for moral excellence, perseverance, and faith.
As the final Messenger of God, Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life offers guidance on faith, justice, and morality. From his humble beginnings in Mecca to his leadership in Medina, studying his life deepens a Muslim’s love for him, strengthens their connection with Allah, and provides valuable insights into understanding the Quran, Hadith, and the growth of Islam.
