Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is one of the most influential figures in history. For 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, he is not only a historical leader but also the final prophet of God and a role model for life.
But who was he, and what was his mission?
This article aims to introduce Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to non-Muslims, based on historical facts and his lasting impact on the world.
1. The Early Life of Muhammad (570 – 610 CE)
Born in Mecca
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was born in Mecca (modern-day Saudi Arabia) in the year 570 CE into the respected Quraysh tribe. His father died before he was born, and his mother died when he was just six years old. He was raised by his grandfather and later by his uncle.
A Man Known for Honesty
From an early age, Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known for his honesty, kindness, and wisdom. The people of Mecca respected him so much that they called him “Al-Ameen” (the Trustworthy) and “As-Sadiq” (the Truthful).
Marriage to Khadijah
At the age of 25, Muhammad (peace be upon him) married Khadijah, a wealthy and noble businesswoman. She recognized his character and integrity, and their marriage was one of love and respect. She was his greatest supporter when he later received prophethood.
2. The Revelation: Muhammad Becomes a Prophet (610 CE)
The Cave of Hira
At the age of 40, while meditating in the Cave of Hira, Muhammad (peace be upon him) received his first revelation from Angel Gabriel (Jibreel). The angel commanded him:
“Read! In the name of your Lord who created.” (Quran 96:1)
This moment marked the beginning of his mission as a prophet of God. The Quran, Islam’s holy book, was revealed to him over 23 years.
Message of Islam
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent by God with a simple but powerful message:
✅ There is only one God (Allah) – Pure monotheism.
✅ Worship God alone, without partners.
✅ Treat people with justice, kindness, and honesty.
✅ Care for the poor, orphans, and the weak.
✅ All humans are equal, regardless of race or status.
His teachings were revolutionary in an era of idol worship, tribal warfare, and social injustice.
3. Challenges and Opposition (610 – 622 CE)
Persecution by Meccan Leaders
His message threatened the power of Mecca’s leaders, who profited from idol worship at the Kaaba. In response:
❌ He and his followers were mocked and tortured.
❌ His followers were boycotted and starved.
❌ He lost his wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib in the same year (the Year of Sorrow).
Despite this, he remained patient, forgiving, and committed to his mission.
The Hijrah: Migration to Medina (622 CE)
After years of persecution, Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers migrated to Medina, a city where his message was welcomed. This event, called the Hijrah, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
4. Leadership and the Growth of Islam (622 – 632 CE)
The Constitution of Medina
In Medina, Muhammad (peace be upon him) became a leader, bringing together warring tribes and forming the first multicultural and multi-religious society under the Constitution of Medina. This document:
✅ Guaranteed freedom of religion.
✅ Established justice and equal rights.
✅ Promoted peaceful coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and pagans.
Battles and Defense
The Meccans continued to attack Medina, leading to defensive battles. Despite winning victories, Muhammad (peace be upon him) always sought peace over war.
The Conquest of Mecca (630 CE)
After years of hostility, Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers peacefully entered Mecca. Instead of seeking revenge, he forgave his enemies, saying:
“No blame will there be upon you today. May Allah forgive you, and He is the Most Merciful of the merciful.” (Quran 12:92)
This act of mercy and forgiveness led thousands to accept Islam.
5. The Final Sermon and Passing (632 CE)
The Farewell Sermon
Shortly before his passing, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon to over 100,000 people. His speech emphasized:
✅ Human equality: “No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, and no non-Arab is superior to an Arab, except by righteousness.”
✅ Women’s rights: “Treat women with kindness and respect.”
✅ Justice and fairness: “Do not oppress others, and you will not be oppressed.”
✅ The importance of following the Quran and his teachings.
His Death and Legacy
At the age of 63, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) passed away in Medina. His final words were:
“O Allah, the Highest Companion.”
His legacy remains alive today, as Islam continues to be one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing religions.
6. What Did Prophet Muhammad Teach?
A. Worship One God (Pure Monotheism)
Islam teaches that God (Allah) is One, without partners, children, or equals. He alone deserves worship.
“Say, He is Allah, the One. Allah, the Eternal. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.” (Quran 112:1-4)
B. Good Character and Morality
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized:
✅ Truthfulness and honesty
✅ Kindness to family, neighbors, and strangers
✅ Helping the poor and orphans
✅ Forgiving those who wrong us
He said:
“The best of you are those who are best in character.” (Bukhari)
C. Justice and Fairness
He taught that everyone is equal before God, regardless of race or status.
“The most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.” (Quran 49:13)
D. Women’s Rights and Social Justice
At a time when women had no rights, he:
✅ Gave women the right to inherit, own property, and choose their spouse.
✅ Said: “The best of you are those who are best to their wives.”
✅ Emphasized education for both men and women.
7. Why Is Muhammad Important Today?
A. A Role Model for Billions
Muslims follow his teachings in everyday life—his kindness, patience, and wisdom.
B. His Influence on History
Historians, even non-Muslims, recognize him as one of the most influential leaders.
Michael Hart (author of “The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History”) placed Muhammad (peace be upon him) as No. 1.
C. The Quran: His Everlasting Message
His greatest legacy is the Quran, the unchanged holy book of Islam.
Conclusion: Who Was Muhammad?
✅ A man of truth and honesty
✅ A leader who fought for justice
✅ A prophet who preached peace and equality
✅ A role model for humanity
Whether you believe in his prophethood or not, his impact on history and civilization is undeniable.
