Who is Prophet Muhammad ﷺ?
Muhammad ﷺ is the final prophet and messenger of Allah, sent to all of humanity until the Last Day. Muslims send blessings upon him whenever his name is mentioned — ﷺ stands for sallallahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).
His Early Life
Muhammad ﷺ was born in Mecca in approximately 570 CE, known as the Year of the Elephant. He was orphaned young — his father Abdullah died before his birth, and his mother Aminah died when he was six. He was raised first by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, then by his uncle Abu Talib.
Even before prophethood, he was known among the people of Mecca as Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy) and As-Sadiq (the Truthful). At the age of 25, he married Khadijah RA — a respected businesswoman — who became his most devoted supporter.
The Beginning of Revelation
At the age of 40, while meditating in the Cave of Hira on the Mountain of Light outside Mecca, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) came to him with the first revelation:
"Read in the name of your Lord who created — Created man from a clinging substance. Read, and your Lord is the most Generous."
Revelation continued for 23 years — 13 years in Mecca, and 10 in Medina after the migration (Hijra) in 622 CE.
His Character
The Prophet ﷺ was the living embodiment of the Qur'an. His wife Aisha RA, when asked about his character, replied: "His character was the Qur'an." He was known for his:
- Mercy — even toward enemies
- Gentleness — especially with women, children, and animals
- Humility — despite being the greatest human to walk the earth
- Justice — he never oppressed anyone, even those who harmed him
- Love for his Ummah — he wept for us in his prayers
The Final Prophet
"Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Last of the Prophets."
There is no prophet after him. The message is complete and preserved. He passed away in 632 CE in Medina, where he is buried in the Prophet's Mosque.
Following His Example
Following the Sunnah (way) of the Prophet ﷺ is itself an act of worship. When you imitate his manners, his prayers, and his dealings with others, you are drawing closer to Allah.
"Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins.'"