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P7-LifeOfProphet-Sp18b.pptxIntroduction to Islam
Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Makkah period
- Madinah period
Course: REL 233
NOVA Community College
Professor: Dr. Daoud Nassimi
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Belief in Prophet Muhammad
Belief in Prophet Muhammad is the second part of the testimony of faith:
Testimony of Faith (Creed of Faith) has two parts:
I bear witness that there is no ILAAH (other god) except Allah
2. And I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah
In the first part, the belief in oneness of God is declared. In the second part, the belief in Muhammad as the (final) messenger of God is declared
In this testimony: After accepting Allah as the only true God, one is referred to the prophet for getting answers to all kinds of questions about God, life, this world, next world, etc.
Believing in Prophet Muhammad leads to:
Believing in the book given to Muhammad (the Qur’an) and all other books and other prophets of God
Following the example of the prophet in all aspects of life
"Intro to Islam" at NOVA - Dr. Nassimi
A Few Sayings of Prophet Muhammad
“Kindness is a sign of faith, and whoever is not kind has no faith.” (Muslim)
“A true Muslim is he from whose tongue and hands people are safe”(Bukhari & Muslim)
“He is not one of us who is not merciful to the younger ones and who does not honor the elderly .” (Tirmidhi)
“Forgive him who wrongs you, do good to one who does evil to you, and speak the truth even if it is against yourself” (Ahmad)
“When there are 3 people, let not 2 engage in a private conversation without the third” (Bukhari & Muslim)
“A person who does not honor trusts has no faith, and a person who does not fulfil promises has no religion (Deen)”
He was asked: Who are the learned? He answered: “Those who practice what they know.” (Bukhari)
“The strong and powerful is not the one who throws people down, but the one who controls his anger”. (Bukhari & Muslim)
“He is not a believer who sleeps with a full stomach while he knows that his neighbor sleeps hungry.” (Baihaqi)
“You are not a believer until you love for your brother what you love for yourself (Bukhari & Muslim)
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Family Background Of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad: A descendent of Abraham
Abraham: An important prophet and messenger of God
His life full of trials and tribulations - passed all
Established a model of faith in Oneness of God
Father of monotheism
God’s promise to bless the world thru his descendents
His two sons: Isaac and Ishmael
Isaac > Jacob (Israel) > Joseph > … > Moses ... > Jesus
Ishmael > … > Fihr (Quraish) > … > Abdul Mutalib > Abdullah > Muhammad
Isaac and Ishmael grew up in 2 distinct areas: Palestine and Makkah (Mecca)
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Abraham and Makkah
Migration of his wife (Hagar/Haajar) and his son (Ishmael/Ismaeel) to Makkah
Building of Ka’ba by Abraham and Ishmael in Makkah
Initial phase of Ka’ba Current form
Prayer (Du’a) of Abraham for Makkah
To bless the land and raise a messenger from amongst the people of this land (see next slide)
Start of Pilgrimage (Hajj) by Abraham
Development of Makkah as spiritual and economic center
Later deviation of descendents from path of Abraham
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Abraham’s prayer for Makkah and its people
When His Lord tested Abraham with certain commandments, which he fulfilled, (His Lord) said, ‘I will make you a leader of mankind.’ Abraham asked, ‘And will You make leaders from my descendants too?’ (His Lord) answered, ‘My covenant does not include those who do injustice.’
And remember that We made this House (the Ka´bah) the center and sanctuary for mankind and enjoined the people to offer prayer in the place where Abraham used to stand for prayer, and We directed Abraham and Ismail to keep My House pure for those who would go round it (Tawaf) and those who would retreat for devotion (I’tikaf) and for those who would bow down and prostrate themselves in there for worship.
And when Abraham prayed, “O’ Lord, make this city a city of peace and security, and provide every kind of produce to those of its people who believe in Allah and the Last Day”. Allah answered, "As for the disbelievers, I will also provide them with the necessities of life in this world, though in the Next World I will drag them to the torment of Hell, and that is the worst abode.“
As Abraham and Ishmael were raising the foundations of the House (they prayed), “Our Lord, accept this from us. You are the All Hearing, the All Knowing, make us Muslims (submissive servants to you) and also raise from our offspring a Muslim community (submissive to Your Will). Show us the ways of Your worship and forbear our shortcomings: You are Forgiving and Merciful.”
“Our Lord, from amongst these people raise a Messenger who shall recite Your Revelations to them and teach them the Book and Wisdom and purify their lives. You are the All-Powerful and All-Wise". (2:124-130)
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Political and Social Conditions Before Advent of Prophet Muhammad
Loss of monotheism
Influence of pagans and start of idol worshipping
Ignorance, wars, bloodshed, worship of false gods, slavery, corruption, immorality, and all kinds of injustices
Need for a prophet
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Year of Birth of Prophet
Year of Elephant and its story : Attack of Abraha on Makkah
Huge army with elephants in front
People of Makkah left city
Getting close to Ka’ba and miraculous reaction of leading elephant
Ignoring those reactions and attack towards Ka’ba
A sudden dark sky and flock of birds coming out to defend Ka’ba
Birds carrying rocks in beaks and claws of foot
Striking of rocks on soldiers and rotting of their flesh
Defeat of full army and killing of Abraha
Later narration of this story in Qur’an (See Surah Al-Feel – Chapter 105)
Defeat of invading army, and popularity of Makkah leadership as people of God
Birth of Prophet in the same year (Year of Elephant)
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Birth of the Prophet
Abdul Mutalib (leader of Makkah and grandfather of Prophet Muhammad)
Spirituality and leadership
One of his sons: Abdullah
Marriage of Abdullah with Amena
Birth of their son: Prophet Muhammad (year 570 CE)
Mother shared special feelings and light during pregnancy
Before his birth, father died during travel at Yathrib (later called Madinah)
Prophet was born as an orphan
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Childhood of Prophet
His early childhood in desert
Suckling by Haleema and her experiences
Returning to mother at age 4
Mother (Amena) died at his age of 6
Grandfather became caretaker
Grandfather died at his age of 8
Uncle (Abu Taaleb) became caretaker
His trip with uncle to Syria
Meeting with Baheerah (A Christian Monk)
Concluding that this child was special after observing a low-flying cloud traveling over the caravan and this child
Inferring his conclusions also from his knowledge of the previous scriptures
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Life before becoming a Prophet
He worked as a shepherd for many years (as most prophets did)
He became famous as a hard working, kind, and honest man
A successful business woman in Makkah, Khadijah
Offered the prophet a job
Sent him for a business trip to Syria
Gained impressive results
Khadijah made marriage proposal
His marriage with Khadijah
Age of Prophet: 25
Age of Khadija: 40
His special status in society
His popular character and his helping hand to others
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Life before becoming a Prophet
His exemplary conduct and morals
His popularity and trust of people on him
Title of “Trustworthy and Truthful Man”
Story of rebuilding of Ka’ba
Rivalry on placing the black stone
Prophet’s solution (at age 35)
His increased popularity
However, his deep concerns for his people and society
His society full of injustices and immorality
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Before becoming a prophet
His contemplation and seclusion
Annual seclusion to a mountain cave near city
Mountain of Light (Jabal Noor) Cave of Hira
Started to get night dreams realized during the day
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Becoming a Prophet
At age 40 while in cave : Sudden appearance of angel
Interaction with angel (Gabriel/Jibraeel)
Receiving first revelation of Qur’an while in cave
“Read (proclaim) with the name of your Caretaker who created (every thing), He created human from a clinging substance. Read, and your Lord is the most gracious, Who imparted knowledge by means of the pen. He taught man what he did not know” (96:1-5)
His fear and return to home
Comforting reaction of his wife
Meeting with Waraqah (A Christian monk, cousin of wife)
His appointment as a Prophet : Year 610 CE
Receiving more revelations, later
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Focus of Initial Revelations
Teaching and reminding people about :
The active role of their creator in their lives
Accountability in next life
Need for justice and morality in society
Oneness of God and His exclusive worship
Disadvantages of worshipping statues and other gods
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Reactions and Opposition
Prophet starting the mission
Passing message to some individuals and family
Sharing with public and inviting them
Acceptance by a few
Start of opposition by many
Opposition in family
Opposition by elite of society
Campaign of public against the prophet
Propaganda about the prophet
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Examples of Propaganda Against Prophet
“He has fabricated this Qur’an”
“He is crazy (Majnoon)”
“He is a magician (Saahir)”
“He is a poet”, “He is a soothsayer”
“He gets some wild dreams, but no revelation from God”
“He wants to reduce our multiple gods to One God”
“His claim of another life and accountability is strange”
“Most of his followers are the poor”
“Why angel came to him, and not to us?”
“He is dividing our families and breaking our unity”
“He is against our traditions and the way of our forefathers”
“His teachings are fairy-tales of ancient (primitive) people”
Etc.
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Demands and Offers of Opposition
Demands from the prophet
Stop telling us about need for reform in society
Stop telling us about equality between us and our slaves
Stop inviting people to worship of One God
Stop talking about powerlessness of our Idols
Stop telling us about our accountability in next life
Offers to him
Political leadership, wealth, beautiful women, etc.
Prophet’s repeated response
Not accepting any worldly offers
Declaring a firm determination to continue his mission without any compromise
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Opposition Intensified
Gradual severity of opposition
Serious threats to anyone accepting Islam
Hindering pilgrims and travelers from hearing Prophet’s message
Social boycotts
Economic boycotts
Physical persecutions
Beating and torture of Muslims
Killing of first Muslim as a martyr of Islam: Sumayya (a lady)
Death of Prophet’s wife
Death of his uncle and loss of tribal support
Year of sadness
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Support for Prophet
Prophet’s strong belief in God and his continuous turning to God for support
His supervision by Angel Gabriel and receiving revelations
Responding to propaganda and objections
Answering questions and providing necessary guidance
Condoling the Prophet and Muslims
Inviting them to be patient and return with good plus additional teachings
Logic of his message and its powerful impact on people
Long term benefits of his message
Miraculous trip of Prophet to Heaven and Jerusalem: Night of Ascension (Mi’raaj) and his trip to Jerusalem (Israa)
Gradual increase of Muslims and their transformations
For example, Omar, an important leader, becoming a Muslim
His interesting story
Pilgrims from Yathrib (Madinah) accepting Islam
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Role of Christians and Jews in Makkah Period
Positive reaction of two Christian monks to the prophet
Baheera and Waraqah
Refuge of some Muslims (prophet’s companions) to Abi Sinya (Ethiopia)
Leader: A just Christian ruler
After listening to Muslims (see speech in below) and to Qur’an
Granting political asylum to Muslims
Reactions of Jews of Madinah
Their unique status among Arabs
Their waiting for the last prophet
Asking questions to verify claim of Prophet-hood
Getting answers to all questions from Qur’an
Their peculiar expectations
It is reported that previous scriptures and scholars of those scriptures had good knowledge about coming of new prophet
Muslims believe that coming of Prophet Muhammad was foretold by both Moses and Jesus
See Verse 61:6 of Qur’an about saying of Jesus in this regard, and Verse 7:157 referring to advent of Prophet Muhammad in Torah and Injeel
See understanding of some Muslim scholars of the Bible quoting Moses and Jesus at: http://www.islam101.com/religions/christianity/mBible.htm
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Speech of a companion of the prophet (Ja’far Ibn Abi Talib) to the king:
: O king! we were plunged in the depth of ignorance and barbarism; we adored idols, we lived in unchastity, we ate the dead bodies, and we spoke abominations, we disregarded every feeling of humanity, and the duties of hospitality and neighbourhood were neglected; we knew no law but that of the strong, when Allāh raised among us a man, of whose birth, truthfulness, honesty, and purity we were aware; and he called to the Oneness of Allah, and taught us not to associate anything with Him. He forbade us the worship of idols; and he enjoined us to speak the truth, to be faithful to our trusts, to be merciful and to regard the rights of the neighbours and kith and kin; he forbade us to speak evil of women, or to eat the substance of orphans; he ordered us to fly from the vices, and to abstain from evil; to offer prayers, to render alms, and to observe fast. We have believed in him, we have accepted his teachings and his injunctions to worship Allah, and not to associate anything with Him, and we have allowed what He has allowed, and prohibited what He has prohibited. For this reason, our people have risen against us, have persecuted us in order to make us forsake the worship of Allah and return to the worship of idols and other abominations. They have tortured and injured us, until finding no safety among them, we have come to your country, and hope you will protect us from oppression. (Raheeq al Makhtum pg. 102)
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Last Days in Makkah
Severity of persecution of Muslims in Makkah
Loss of Prophet’s tribal support
Prophet exploring options to move out of Makkah
His trip to Taaif, but facing a very painful and humiliating reaction
Acceptance of Islam by some pilgrims from Madinah and immigration of some of his companions to Madinah, and invitations to prophet
Conspiracy to kill the Prophet in his house
But, leaving the house with miraculous protection
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Immigration of Prophet to Madinah
Leaving Makkah
Staying in Cave of Thawr
Safe arrival of Prophet to Madinah
After 13 years of calling and facing difficulties in Makkah, prophet migrated to Madinah in Year 622
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Welcome in Madinah
His arrival to Madinah and welcome from all over the city
Everyone singing a song to welcome him (see the following YouTube videos for that song)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Axbm1_SXvDI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaTP2PCI3jY
Building of first mosque (Qubaa) in outskirts of Madinah
Variety of proposed guest houses, but his decision based on his camel sitting down on a land (next to Abu Ayoob Ansari’s house)
Building of his own mosque in that land
Immigration of more Muslims from Makkah
Start of Islamic calendar (Lunar)
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Establishing State in Madinah
A new community and society
Muslims: Immigrants (Muhajireen) and Natives (Ansaar)
Non-Muslim Arabs: 12 tribes divided between Aws and Khazraj
Jews: 10 tribes including Banu Nazeer, Banu Quraiza and Bani Qainuqa
A pluralistic: multi-tribal and multi-religious society
Prophet established leadership among all
Founded first Islamic State
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Development of Constitution
One of the oldest written constitutions in history
The Charter of Madinah (Meethaq-ul-Madinah or Ṣaheefat-ul-Madinah)
Precedes the English Magna Carta of 1215
Charter text is preserved in its entirety in more than one version
Has 47 clauses and 63 articles
Laid foundations of a sovereign nation-state and a central government
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Some Features of Constitution
All parties included in the charter, i.e. Muslims, people of the book (Jews and Christians) and pagans had freedom to practice their religion
All citizens of the state had equal rights and responsibilities and were protected against excess and oppression
A system of financial aid was developed within each tribe and between tribes. Communal funds were set up which were used in times of financial need such as to pay ransom or blood-money
In the event of a dispute among the signatories, Prophet Muhammad was the final authority for settling the dispute
For more details, see
http://www.constitutionofMadinah.com/
http://islamfactor.org/index.php?showtopic=3365
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Transformation in Madinah
Constitution transformed political, religious and social life
Brought rival tribes together to form a polity and establishing peace among them
Ended prevailing anarchy and protected life, liberty, property and religious freedom of all
Created a state where equal rights and responsibilities were provided for all citizens
Replaced traditional tribal kinship with a new social order and created a nation state with a new social fabric
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Plans of Attack from Makkah
Pagan leaders of Makkah (Quraysh) were enraged with Prophet’s safe arrival and progress in Madinah, and concerned about further expansion of the area controlled by the prophet
Kept sending expeditions to create state of terror in Madinah
Qur’an provided permission for Muslims to defend/fight
“Permission (to fight back) is given to those against whom war is being wrongfully waged, and certainly Allah is powerful to give them victory. They are the ones who were expelled from their homelands in defiance of right for no other reason than their saying “Our Lord is Allah.” Had Allah not been repelling some people by means of some others, the monasteries, the churches, the synagogues and the mosques where Allah’s name is abundantly recited would have been demolished.” (22:39-40)
Quraysh planned a major attack to Madinah with pretext of safety of their commercial caravan
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First Battle between Muslims and Pagans of Makkah
Battle of Badr in 623
A strong and well-equipped army of over1000 Quraysh led by famous leaders
An ill-equipped army of 319 Muslims led by Prophet Muhammad
Decisive victory of Muslims
Qur’an mentions participation of angels (verses 8:9 and 8:12)
Muslims took many prisoners of war - new humane ruling for POWs
Significant implications of this battle
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Two Other Attacks by Pagans of Makkah
Pagan leaders of Makkah got more frustrated and seeking revenge
Rise and role of hypocrites in Madinah
Second Battle: Uhud in 3rd year
3000 Quraysh soldiers vs. 700 Muslims
Quraysh inflicted some losses on Muslims
Even, the prophet himself suffered head injury and his front teeth were broken. While the blood leaking from his head, Omar told him, O Messenger of Allah, curse those infidels! The prophet replied: "I wasn't sent (by Allah) to curse, but I was sent as a mercy." Then he said: "O Allah, Guide my people!"
Loss caused by disobedience of orders by some Muslims
Qur’an explained its lessons
Third Battle: Trench/parties (Ahzaab) in 5 A.H.
Attack from all opposing parties and tribes – 10,000
Digging of trench around Madinah to defend
Siege of Madinah for several days
Retreat and defeat of all invaders by a strong wind and invisible troops (33:11)
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Peace Treaty with Quraysh
Peace Treaty of Al-Hudaibiyah (6 A.H.)
Wide spread of Islam during this peace period
Sending and receiving delegates and letters to
Leaders of all surrounding areas
Governors of other states, and
Emperors of Persia and Rome
Conquest of Khaiber in North (7 A.H.)
Minor Pilgrimage (Umrah) of Muslims
Battle of Mu’tah with Byzantines Army
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Conquest of Makkah
Breach of treaty by Quraysh
Conquest of Makkah (8 A.H)
A bloodless conquest
No destruction or chaos
Entering victorious, but in humbleness
Removing idols from Ka’ba
Forgiving all enemies in spite of all past persecutions
No revenge
Battle of Hunayn
Battle of Tabook (9 A.H) with Roman empire
30,000 Muslims versus 200,000
But no fighting took place
Acceptance of Islam by large groups
Farewell pilgrimage (Hajjatul Widaa’)
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Last Sermon of Prophet
This sermon was delivered on the Ninth Day of Dhul Hijjah 10 A.H. in the valley of Mount Arafat' (in Makkah) and attended by 124,000 Muslims. After praising and thanking Allah, he said:
"O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and TAKE THESE WORDS TO THOSE WHO COULD NOT BE PRESENT HERE TODAY.
O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of everyone as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you.
Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that HE will indeed reckon your deeds. ALLAH has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligations shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity.
Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.
O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah's trust and with His permission. If they abide by your rights, then observe their rights, provide for them, and show kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers.
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Last Sermon of Prophet - Cont’d
O People, listen to me in earnest, worship ALLAH, offer your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month of Ramadan, give the poor due (Zakat), and perform Hajj, if you can afford to.
All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action.** Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.
Remember, one day you will appear before ALLAH and answer your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.
O People, NO PROPHET OR APOSTLE WILL COME AFTER ME AND NO NEW FAITH WILL BE BORN. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the QURAN and my example, the SUNNAH, and if you follow these, you will never go astray.
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly.
Be my witness, O ALLAH, that I have conveyed your message to your people".
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** There is a racial incident that took place during the life of the prophet:
Abu Dharr, the leader of the tribe of Ghifar, and one who accepted Islam in its early days, narrates: Once I was conversing with Bilal. Our conversation gave way to a dispute. Angry with him, the following insult burst from my mouth: 'You cannot comprehend this, O son of a black woman!' As Islam expressly forbade all kinds of racial, tribal and colour discrimination, Bilal was both upset and greatly angered. A while later a man came and told me that the Messenger of God, upon him be peace and blessings, summoned me. I went to him immediately. He said to me: 'I have been informed that you addressed Bilal as the son of a black woman.' I was deeply ashamed and could say nothing. God's Messenger continued his reprimand: 'This means you still retain the standards and judgements of the pre-Islamic days of ignorance. Islam has eradicated all those false standards or measures judging people by blood, fame, colour or wealth. It has established that the best and most honourable of men is he who is the most pious and upright in conduct. Is it right to defame a believer just because he is black?' Abu Dharr felt profound remorse. He went straight to Bilal's house and, putting his head on the threshold, said: 'This head will not rise from here until the blessed feet of Bilal tread on the face of foolish, impolite Abu Dharr.' Bilal responded: 'That face deserves to be kissed, not trodden upon', and forgave Abu Dharr.
This issue was important enough for the Prophet to mention it in his last sermon.
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Death of Prophet
Sickness and fever for a few days
His death at Aisha’s lap
June 8th 632 CE (12th day of Rabi al-Awal, 11 A.H.)
His age was 63
People in the mosque filled with deep grief
Abu Bakr went out and spoke gently to them and added “All praises belong to Allah! O people, whoever worshipped Muhammad, Muhammad is dead. But for him who worships Allah, Allah is living and never dies”.
Abu Bakr was chosen as the next leader of the state (Caliph)
Nearly all of Arabia had accepted Islam by then.
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Prophet’s Life and Example
All details of his life and his sayings are recorded
An example for all because his life was utterly humane
It was superbly noble, but yet simple
No mysteries surround his life
“You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful model (of conduct) for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the Praise of Allah.” 33:21
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Reports about the Prophet
Seerah: His life account or biography
Hadith: Report of his sayings, actions, approvals, and traditions
Sunnah: His traditions, his methods, his way of doing things
Meaning of “Sunnah” in Islamic Law is different from this (it will be clarified later under Islamic Law)
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Recording and Collection of Prophet’s Hadith / Sunnah
Some Hadith was written during prophet’s life by some selected companions
Most was written much later, but they were carried through oral and practical life of Muslims
Careful memorization, practicing, and word-by-word transmission of Hadith were considered part of the companions’ faith, not just a tradition
Due to political strife later, some forged Hadith appeared that led to
A full and thorough exam of all Hadith transmission and authentication
A very historical scrutiny and unparalleled scholarly research
After a very profound research and filtering, Hadith was generally classified as:
Very authentic (Saheeh)
Fairly authentic (Hasan)
Weak (Da’eef)
Forged (Mowdoo’/Ja’lee)
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Battles in Prophet’s Life
All for self-defense and removing oppression
With very detailed and strict rules of confrontation
Avoid fighting, and use it as the last resort
Shall not harm non-combatants, women, elderly, and the religious figures
Shall not destroy the trees, buildings, etc.
Very humane treatment of POWs
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Battles in Prophet’s Life
In 10 years of military activities in Madinah period, total loss of life incurred was 255 Muslims as against 759 of opposition
Total number of prisoners of war taken in all battles were only 6,564 out of whom
Only two were executed for definite crimes committed by them, while
6,347 were released.
The remaining 215 prisoners accepted Islam
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Marriages of Prophet
First marriage with Khadijah for 25 years (his only wife until prophet became 50)
Second marriage after that (Sawdah, only wife for another 2 years)
Monogamous for majority of his life and during the most virile part of his life – clarifying myth of lust
Third and all later marriages (Aishah, Hafsah, …) in polygamy because
It was very common in those days and culture
All of his marriages were based on divine inspirations
Almost all wives were widows and distressed
It was a way for spread of Islam and building relations with other communities
It was the best way for the prophet to train some leaders among women directly and closely
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Marriage of Prophet with ‘Aishah
Marriage with Aishah at a younger age due to special reasons and wisdom
Her age reported between 9 -18 (most likely 17-18)
But even if 9 is correct (worst case), following points to be noted:
The marriage was after the age of puberty/maturity
It was very common for girls to get married at very young ages among Arabs and other societies. That is why no one objected it until 20th century.
She had special maturity and talent as a young girl
Prophet saw her in dreams (divine vision) two times marrying her
She lived for 48 years after Prophet’s death to teach women and men as a great scholar of Islam
She shared the most private aspects of Prophet’s life
“The Prophet is closer to the believers than their selves, and his wives are (as) their mothers.” (33:6)
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Various Views about Prophet Muhammad
During his time
All along the history of Islam
In this age, all kinds of positive and negative publicity about him
Need for objective study of his life and message
Those who have studied objectively, acknowledged who he was
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Some non-Muslim Views
“My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels.”
The 100, a Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, MUHAMMAD, No. 1, by Michael H. Hart
“I have studied him - the wonderful man - and in my opinion far from being an anti-Christ, he must be called the savior of humanity.” “If a man like Muhamed were to assume the dictatorship of the modern world, he would succeed in solving its problems that would bring it the much needed peace and happiness.”
George Bernard Shaw "The Genuine Islam“
Head of the State as well as the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but, he was Pope without the Pope's pretensions, and Caesar without the legions of Caesar, without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a police force, without a fixed revenue. If ever a man had the right to say that he ruled by a right divine, it was Muhammad, for he had all the powers without their supports. He cared not for the dressings of power. The simplicity of his private life was in keeping with his public life.
Rev. R. Bosworth-Smith "MUHAMMAD AND MUHAMMADANISM 1946"
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Some non-Muslim Views
Lamartine, a renowned historian speaking on the essentials of human greatness writes:
"If greatness of purpose, smallness of means and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad?
The most famous men created arms, laws and empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes. This man moved not only armies, legislation, empires, peoples and dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs and souls…
Philosopher, Orator, Apostle, Legislator, Warrior, Conqueror of ideas, Restorer of rational beliefs, of a cult without images; the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad.
As regards all standards by which human greatness may be measured, we may well ask, is there any man greater than he?
Lamartine, Historie de la Turquie, Paris 1854, Vol. 11 pp. 276-2727
John Austin, a British jurist in the 1840s said:
“The sayings of Muhammad are a treasure of wisdom not only for Muslims, but for all of mankind”
Prophet Muhammad honored by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1935 as one of the Greatest Lawgivers Of The World, and still mentioned in the court wall.
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Some verses of Qur’an about Prophet Muhammad
Description of his behavior:
“And you stand on an exalted standard of character.” 68:4
Described as a mercy:
“We sent you not, but as a Mercy for all creatures.” 21:107
Description of his finality:
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things.” 33:40
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Some more verses about him:
“We have sent you as a messenger to mankind. And enough is Allah for a witness.” 4:79
“Blessed is He (Allah) who sent down the criterion (the Qur’an) to His servant, that he may be a Warner to all creatures.” 25:1
“We have not sent you but to all human beings, giving them glad tidings, and warning them (against disbelief and sin), but most human beings understand not.” 34:28
"O human beings! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He That gives both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the Unlettered Prophet, who believes in Allah and His words: follow him that (so) you may be guided." 7:158
“O Mankind! The Messenger has come to you in truth from Allah. Believe in him: It is best for you. But if you reject it, to Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth: And Allah is All-knowing, All-wise.” 4:170
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Prophet Muhammad - Summary
A descendent of Abraham
One of the most influential men of history
The recipient of Qur’an
Being the final prophet of God
Revived the essence of teachings of all other prophets
He accomplished the most profound revolution. Within 23 years, he made the scattered, illiterate, ignorant, plundering and warring factions of the Arabian Peninsula change their beliefs, outlook, manners, morals, ethics, lifestyle, and their social, political and economic systems; he united them under law and order and made them the leaders of the civilized world and champions of goodness.
He was alone when he received first revelation, but He has over1.7 billion followers now
All details of his life and his sayings are available
No mysteries surround his life
A life full of sacrifices and hardships
A role model and example for all
His life and message need to be studied objectively
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