Who is Prophet Muhammad?

The life of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is a story of profound spiritual significance and historical impact. As the final messenger of Allah, he conveyed the message of Islam, guiding humanity toward faith, righteousness, and ethical conduct. 

From his early revelations in Mecca to the establishment of a just and compassionate society in Medina, his life exemplifies perseverance, patience, and unwavering devotion to the divine. 

Prophet Muhammad’s journey was not only religious but also social and political, shaping the lives of those around him and establishing a foundation for a global civilization. 

His influence transcends time and geography, offering guidance that remains relevant in all aspects of life. Studying his death and legacy allows us to appreciate the profound effect he had on both his contemporaries and future generations, highlighting the enduring power of his message of peace, justice, and moral integrity.

Who is the Prophet Muhammad? 

Prophet Muhammad was born as Muhammad ibn Abdullah in Mecca, in the year 570 CE, a year famously known as the Year of the Elephant. He came from the noble Quraysh tribe, one of the most respected families in Arabia. His lineage traces back to Adnan, linking him to a long line of prominent ancestors in Arab history.

The Full Name of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

The full name of the Prophet is Muhammad ibn Abdullah ibn Abdul-Muttalib ibn Hashim ibn Abd Manaf ibn Qusayy ibn Kilab ibn Murrah ibn Ka’b ibn Lu’ayy ibn Ghalib ibn Fihr ibn Malik ibn an-Nadr ibn Kinana ibn Khuzaymah ibn Mudrikah ibn Ilyas ibn Mudar ibn Nizar ibn Ma’ad ibn Adnan, and his tribe is Quraysh.

Regarding the origin of Quraysh, most reports state that it comes from Fihr, which is the most authentic view, while others say it comes from an-Nadr ibn Kinana. There is consensus among the scholars on this lineage.

Some extend the lineage further back to Adam (peace be upon him) through Adnan, who is a descendant of Isma’il (Ishmael, peace be upon him), then to the Prophet Hud, then Idris, then Seth, son of Adam, and finally to Adam (peace be upon them all).

The Prophet Muhammad was known by several titles and honorifics that reflected his character and role, including Ahmad, Al-Amin (the Trustworthy), Al-Mustafa (the Chosen One), Al-Siraj Al-Munir (the Illuminating Lamp), and Al-Bashir An-Nadhir (the Bearer of Good and Warning News). 

His kunya, or honorific nickname, was Abu al-Qasim.

The Mother of the Prophet

The mother of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is Amina bint Wahb ibn Abd Manaf ibn Kilab. Through her, the lineage of the Prophet meets that of Abdullah. Her grandfather, Abd Manaf ibn Zuhrah, was the chief of the Banu Zuhrah, known for their nobility and honor. 

Abdul-Muttalib, the Prophet’s grandfather, sought her in marriage for his son Abdullah, uniting noble lineages, and their union resulted in the birth of Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم).

The Nursing of the Prophet by Halimah

After his birth, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was nursed by Halimah al-Sa’diyah, from the tribe of Banu Sa’d, the mother of Kibsha. He stayed in her care until he completed his nursing period. Reports differ regarding the duration: some say two years and a month, others four years, and others five years and a month.

During this time, Halimah and her family had been suffering from drought and scarcity, barely able to sustain themselves and their livestock. With the arrival of the infant Muhammad, their fortunes changed, and blessings came to their household and land. 

He was nursed alongside his cousin Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith ibn Abdul-Muttalib and other children of her family, including, according to some reports, Anisa or Hudhafa, the children of al-Harith ibn Abd al-Uzza ibn Rifa’a al-Sa’diy. It was during this period that the incident of the splitting of the Prophet’s chest occurred.

The Early Life and Guardianship of the Prophet

The Prophet Muhammad lived as an orphan. Regarding the death of his father, Abdullah, some reports say he died while the Prophet was still in his mother’s womb; others say when he was two months old, four months old, or up to one and a half to two years old. Abdullah died young at the age of twenty-five.

The Prophet was cared for by his mother, Amina, for a few years until she passed away when he was about four to six years old during a journey returning from Medina. After her death, the Prophet was cared for by his father’s servant, Umm Ayman (Barakah al-Habashiyah).

When he grew older, his grandfather Abdul-Muttalib became his guardian. Abdul-Muttalib lived to nearly one hundred and ten years old and passed away when the Prophet was about eight years old. 

After his grandfather’s death, his uncle Abu Talib took charge of him, raising him among his children and including him in his trading journeys to Syria (the Levant).

Physical Characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad

The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was known for his exceptional physical and moral beauty. His appearance has been described in detail in many Hadith and Seerah books, highlighting his noble features and stature.

Facial Features

Face Color:
The Prophet’s face was white and radiant, not dark. Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) reported:

“كانَ رَسولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عليه وسلَّمَ أَزْهَرَ اللَّوْنِ”

 “The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) had a radiant complexion.”

He was not extremely pale:

“وَليسَ بالأبْيَضِ الأمْهَقِ” “Nor was he extremely white.”

Cheeks and Face Shape:
His face shone like the full moon, and it was not completely round but slightly oval with firm, handsome cheeks. Al-Bara’ ibn ‘Azib (رضي الله عنه) said:

“كانَ رَسولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عليه وَسَلَّمَ أَحْسَنَ النَّاسِ وَجْهًا، وَأَحْسَنَهُمْ خَلْقًا”
“The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was the best-looking of all people and the most beautiful in form.”

Forehead:
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) had a broad, straight, and proportionate forehead.

Eyebrows and Eyes:
He had long, slightly joined, arched eyebrows. His eyes were wide, with dark pupils and bright whites, containing small red veins. His eyelashes were long and thick.

Nose:
His nose was straight, slightly raised in the middle, and with a delicate tip.

Mouth and Teeth:
He had a wide mouth, beautiful lips, and white teeth with slight gaps between the incisors and canines.

Beard:
He had a thick, black beard, approximately a fist in length, with a few white hairs in his ‘anfaqah (the area between the lower lip and chin). Abdullah ibn Basr narrated:

“كانَ في عَنْفَقَتِهِ شَعَرَاتٌ بيضٌ”
“He had some white hairs in his ‘anfaqah.”

Hair and Head:
He had a large head with very black hair, mostly free of grey except for a few strands at the parting. His hair was combed, neither curly nor extremely straight, sometimes reaching his earlobes, half his ears, or his shoulders. He sometimes let his hair fall naturally and parted it.  Ibn Abbas said:

“كانَ النبيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عليه وسلَّمَ يُحِبُّ مُوَافَقَةَ أهْلِ الكِتَابِ فِيما لَمْ يُؤْمَرْ فِيهِ…”

 “The Prophet liked to resemble the People of the Book in matters he was not commanded to avoid; he sometimes let his hair fall naturally and sometimes parted it.”

Body Characteristics

Stature and Build:
He was well-proportioned, neither tall nor short. Anas ibn Malik said:

“كان رسولُ اللهِ صلَّى اللهُ عليه وسلَّمَ رَبْعَةً؛ ليس بالطَّويلِ، ولا بالقَصيرِ، حسَنَ الجِسْمِ”
“The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was of medium height, well-built, neither tall nor short.”

Neck:
His neck was long and elegant; Ali ibn Abi Talib (رضي الله عنه) said:

“كأن عنق رسول الله صلّى الله عليه وسلم إبريق فضة”
“The neck of the Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was like a silver jug.”

Shoulders, Chest, and Seal of Prophethood:
He had broad shoulders and a chest, with hair on his shoulders and upper chest. The Seal of Prophethood was located on his left shoulder blade and described as resembling a pigeon egg:
Jabir ibn Samura said:

“وَرَأَيْتُ الخَاتَمَ عِنْدَ كَتِفِهِ مِثْلَ بَيْضَةِ الحَمَامَةِ يُشْبِهُ جَسَدَهُ”
“I saw the Seal on his shoulder, like a pigeon’s egg, resembling his body.”

Arms and Armpits:
His arms were long, and his armpits were fair. Muslim narrated:

“كانَ رَسولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عليه وسلَّمَ إذَا سَجَدَ جَافَى حتَّى يَرَى مَن خَلْفَهُ وضَحَ إبْطَيْهِ”
“When the Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) prostrated, his armpits were clearly visible to those behind him.”

Hands and Fingers:
He had broad hands and long, straight fingers. Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) said:

“وَلَا مَسِسْتُ دِيبَاجَةً، وَلَا حَرِيرَةً أَلْيَنَ مِن كَفِّ رَسولِ اللهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عليه وسلَّمَ”
“I have never touched anything softer than the hands of the Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم).”

Abdomen and Navel:
His abdomen was moderate, with a thin line of hair from the navel to the chest.

Legs and Feet:
His legs were fair, with strong knees and joints. His feet were firm, evenly proportioned, and did not have any deformities.

Special Beauty and Charisma

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was described as extraordinarily beautiful. Ka’b ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) said:

“وكانَ رَسولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عليه وسلَّمَ إذَا سُرَّ اسْتَنَارَ وجْهُهُ، حتَّى كَأنَّهُ قِطْعَةُ قَمَرٍ”
“When the Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was pleased, his face would shine like a piece of the moon.”

Even during illness, his gentleness and radiant face remained, as Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) narrated:

“فَكَشَفَ النبيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عليه وسلَّمَ سِتْرَ الحُجْرَةِ يَنْظُرُ إلَيْنَا وهو قَائِمٌ كَأنَّ وجْهَهُ ورَقَةُ مُصْحَفٍ، ثُمَّ تَبَسَّمَ يَضْحَكُ”
“The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) lifted the curtain to look at us; his face was like the soft pages of the Qur’an, and then he smiled and laughed.”

Importance of Knowing the Prophet’s Physical Traits

Understanding the Prophet’s (صلى الله عليه وسلم) physical features helps Muslims recognize him in dreams and aspire to emulate his appearance, including his hair, beard, and posture. His beauty, both moral and physical, reflects the divine perfection and mercy of Allah in choosing him as the best of creation.

The Prophethood of Muhammad 

The story of the prophethood of Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) begins in the solitude of the Cave of Hira, where he often went to reflect on life and the state of his society. At the age of forty, a profound and life-changing event occurred: the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared to him and revealed the first words of the Qur’an:

“اقْرَأْ بِاسْمِ رَبِّكَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ” — “Recite in the name of your Lord who created” (Qur’an 96:1).

This marked the beginning of his mission as the Messenger of Allah, entrusted to guide humanity with truth, compassion, and justice.

Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was sent as a prophet not only to the people of Mecca but as a mercy to all the worlds. Allah says in the Qur’an:

“وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِّلْعَالَمِينَ” — “We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds” (Qur’an 21:107).

His message emphasized monotheism, moral integrity, and the importance of caring for the weak and oppressed.

Despite the challenges he faced—ridicule, threats, and persecution from his own tribe, the Quraysh—Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) remained patient and steadfast. He spent thirteen years spreading his message in Mecca, followed by nine years in Medina after the migration (Hijra), where he established a model society grounded in faith, justice, and brotherhood.

The prophethood of Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was characterized by his unwavering dedication, his honesty, and his mercy. He taught by example, guiding his followers not only with words but also through actions, showing kindness to all, including friends, enemies, and even animals. 

His life remains a source of inspiration, illustrating the profound impact of a true prophet chosen by Allah to lead humanity toward righteousness.

The Prophet Mohammed’s Migration and Life in Medina

By the early 620s CE, the situation in Mecca had become extremely hostile for Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his followers. The Quraysh intensified their persecution, targeting not only the Prophet but also his companions. Many Muslims had already sought refuge in Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), but the oppression at home made a permanent migration necessary.

Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) guided the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) through revelation to prepare for migration, marking the Hijrah, a turning point in Islamic history that established the first Islamic state and a safe community for Muslims.

The Journey to Medina

In the year 622 CE, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his companion Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) secretly left Mecca to escape Quraysh’s plot to assassinate him. They stayed for three days in the Cave of Thawr to avoid detection.

The Qur’an mentions Allah’s support during such trials:

“وَإِن يَنصُرْكُمُ اللَّهُ فَلَا غَالِبَ لَكُمْ ۖ وَيَثْبِتْ أَقْدَامَكُمْ”
“If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; and He makes your feet firm.” — Qur’an 47:7

Eventually, they safely reached Yathrib, later known as Medina, where the Prophet was warmly welcomed. The people of Medina had invited him to mediate tribal conflicts between the Aws and Khazraj tribes.

Establishing the Muslim Community

Upon arrival, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) began organizing the Muslim community. He established the Constitution of Medina, which defined the rights and responsibilities of Muslims, Jews, and other groups, emphasizing justice, mutual defense, and religious freedom.

He also paired the Muhajirun (migrants from Mecca) with the Ansar (helpers of Medina) in a bond of brotherhood. Wealth, homes, and resources were shared to ensure the stability of the community.

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) emphasized unity and cooperation, saying:

“المؤمن للمؤمن كالبنيان يشد بعضه بعضًا”
“The believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts enforce each other.” — Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim

Family and Personal Life

The Prophet Muhammad married multiple women throughout his life, including Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, Aisha bint Abu Bakr, Hafsa bint Umar, and others. His marriages were guided by social, spiritual, and humanitarian considerations. He also had children, and his household life exemplified compassion, responsibility, and devotion.

Wives of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was married to several noble and pious women who played significant roles in his life and in the early Muslim community. His first and most beloved wife was Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the wealthy and devoted businesswoman who supported him during the early years of his prophethood. 

After her, he married Sawda bint Zam‘a, Aisha bint Abi Bakr, Hafsa bint Umar, Zaynab bint Khuzayma, Umm Salama (Hind) bint Abu Umayya Al-Makhzumi, Juwairiya bint Al-Harith, Umm Habiba (Ramlah) bint Abi Sufyan, Safiyya bint Huyayy ibn Akhtab, Maimuna bint Al-Harith, Zaynab bint Jahsh, and Khawla bint Hakim. 

Each of these women contributed uniquely to the social, spiritual, and political life of the Muslim community, supporting the Prophet and exemplifying devotion, courage, and wisdom. Their marriages were also significant in strengthening alliances and uniting different tribes and communities under Islam.

Death and Legacy of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) passed away in Medina on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal in the year 11 AH (632 CE) at the age of 63. His death marked the end of the era of revelation, as he was the final messenger of Allah, bringing the message of Islam to all of humanity. 

He was buried in the Chamber of Aisha in Medina, which is now part of the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi). The legacy of the Prophet is immeasurable. He united the Arabian Peninsula under the banner of Islam, establishing a community based on justice, compassion, and monotheism. 

His teachings, recorded in the Quran and the Hadith, continue to guide over a billion Muslims around the world. The Prophet’s life exemplifies moral excellence, humility, and devotion to God. His emphasis on justice, mercy, education, and social responsibility remains relevant today.

Allah says in the Quran:

مَا كَانَ مُحَمَّدٌ أَبَا أَحَدٍ مِّن رِّجَالِكُمْ وَلَـكِن رَّسُولَ اللَّهِ وَخَاتَمَ النَّبِيِّينَ ۗ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ عَلِيمًا
“Muhammad is not the father of any one of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing.” (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:40)

His legacy lives on not only through the Quran and Sunnah but also in the hearts of Muslims who strive to emulate his character, uphold justice, and promote peace and compassion in their communities. 

The Prophet Muhammad’s life remains a timeless example of guidance, resilience, and faith.

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Conclusion

Prophet Muhammad’s death marked the conclusion of his earthly mission but reinforced the everlasting relevance of his teachings. His passing did not signify the end of Islam; rather, it marked the beginning of the continuation of his legacy through the Quran, Sunnah, and the lives of those who follow his guidance. 

His exemplary character, wisdom, and moral excellence continue to inspire Muslims to live lives of compassion, justice, and devotion to Allah.

The legacy of Prophet Muhammad extends beyond religious instruction to influence culture, governance, and social ethics across the world. By adhering to his teachings, Muslims strive to emulate his virtues and carry forward his message of unity and faith. 

The life, death, and enduring impact of Prophet Muhammad serve as a timeless beacon, reminding humanity of the transformative power of righteousness, humility, and unwavering faith in Allah.