Biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Name: Muhammad ibn Abdullah
Birth: 570 CE (Approx.), Mecca, Arabian Peninsula
Death: June 8, 632 CE, Medina, Arabian Peninsula
Parents: Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib (father) and Amina bint Wahb (mother)
Spouse(s): Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, Aisha bint Abu Bakr, and others
Children: Fatimah, Qasim, Abdullah, Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum, and Ibrahim
Early Life
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born in Mecca in the year 570 CE, a period known as the “Age of Ignorance” (Jahiliyyah) due to widespread idol worship and social injustices. His father, Abdullah, passed away before his birth, and his mother, Amina, died when he was six. He was then cared for by his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, and later by his uncle, Abu Talib.
From an early age, Muhammad (PBUH) was known for his honesty and integrity, earning him the title “Al-Amin” (The Trustworthy). He worked as a merchant and gained a reputation for his fairness and truthfulness.
Marriage to Khadijah
At the age of 25, Muhammad (PBUH) married Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, a respected and wealthy businesswoman. Their marriage was one of deep love and mutual respect. Khadijah supported him throughout his prophethood, and they had several children together, including Fatimah, who later became the mother of Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn.
Revelation and Prophethood
At the age of 40, during a period of meditation in the Cave of Hira, Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation from Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). The first words revealed were:
“Read! In the name of your Lord who created.” (Surah Al-‘Alaq 96:1)
This marked the beginning of his mission as the final messenger of Allah. He began preaching Tawhid (monotheism) and called people to abandon idol worship, injustice, and corruption.
Persecution and Migration (Hijrah)
The message of Islam was met with fierce opposition from the Quraysh leaders, as it challenged their authority and pagan beliefs. Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers endured severe persecution. Some Muslims migrated to Abyssinia (Ethiopia) under the protection of the Christian King Negus.
In 622 CE, due to increasing threats, Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated to Medina in an event known as the Hijrah. This migration marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijri Calendar). In Medina, he established an Islamic state based on justice, unity, and worship of one God.
Battles and Expansion of Islam
Several battles took place between the Muslims and the Quraysh, including:
- Battle of Badr (624 CE): A miraculous victory for the Muslims.
- Battle of Uhud (625 CE): A setback for the Muslims but a lesson in patience.
- Battle of the Trench (627 CE): A defensive victory against the Quraysh.
Eventually, in 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers peacefully entered Mecca and cleansed the Kaaba of idols, restoring it to the worship of Allah alone.
Final Sermon and Passing
In 632 CE, during his Farewell Pilgrimage, the Prophet (PBUH) delivered his famous Last Sermon, emphasizing:
- The equality of all humans, regardless of race or status.
- The rights of women.
- The importance of the Quran and Sunnah as guidance.
Shortly after, on June 8, 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away in Medina at the age of 63. He was buried in his house, which is now part of Masjid al-Nabawi.
Legacy
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is regarded as the last and final messenger of Allah, and his teachings continue to guide over a billion Muslims worldwide. His character, leadership, and mercy remain a model for humanity.
His message of monotheism, justice, compassion, and morality transformed Arabia and later the world, shaping civilizations and inspiring countless generations.
Conclusion
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) remains the most influential and revered figure in Islamic history. His life and teachings, preserved in the Quran and Hadith, provide a roadmap for spiritual and moral excellence.
May peace and blessings be upon him. (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam – SWS)
