WHO is Muhammad?

Muhammad is the central figure of Islam and is considered the last prophet sent by God to guide humanity. Here are some key points about Muhammad:

1. Birth and Early Life:
   • Muhammad was born around 570 CE in Mecca, in present-day Saudi Arabia.
   • He belonged to the Quraysh tribe and was raised by his grandfather and uncle after the death of his parents.
2. Revelation:
   • At the age of 40, Muhammad began receiving revelations from God through the angel Gabriel.
   • These revelations continued for about 23 years and were later compiled into the Islamic holy book, the Qur’an.
3. Prophethood:
   • Muhammad’s prophethood began with the message of monotheism, calling people to worship one God, Allah, and to abandon idolatry.
   • His teachings emphasized social justice, moral conduct, and community welfare.
4. Hijra (Migration):
   • In 622 CE, facing persecution in Mecca, Muhammad and his followers migrated to Medina, an event known as the Hijra.
   • This migration marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
5. Establishment of Islam:
   • In Medina, Muhammad established a Muslim community and became a political and spiritual leader.
   • He formed alliances, conducted military campaigns, and worked to unite the Arabian Peninsula under Islam.
6. Return to Mecca:
   • In 630 CE, Muhammad and his followers peacefully conquered Mecca.
   • He cleansed the Kaaba of idols and established it as a central place of worship for Muslims.
7. Death:
   • Muhammad died in 632 CE in Medina. He was buried in the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi), which remains a significant site for Muslims.
8. Legacy:
   • Muhammad is revered by Muslims as the final prophet and the “Seal of the Prophets.”
   • His life and teachings, recorded in the Hadith and Sunnah, serve as a model for Muslims to follow.
9. Impact on Islam:
   • Islam, founded on Muhammad’s teachings, has grown to be one of the world’s major religions with over a billion followers worldwide.
   • The Five Pillars of Islam, which include faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage, are central practices derived from Muhammad’s teachings.

Muhammad’s influence extends beyond religious boundaries, impacting social, political, and cultural aspects of Muslim societies throughout history.