Comprehensive Definition
Muḥammad (محمد): The final prophet of Islam, often referred to as “The Seal of the Prophets,” whose life and teachings form the foundation of Islamic theology, practice, and law.
Etymology
The name “Muḥammad” originates from the Arabic root “ḥ-m-d” (ح-م-د) which means “to praise” or “to commend.” Muḥammad thus means “the one who is praised” or “worthy of praise.”
Background
Muḥammad ibn ʿAbdullāh was born in Mecca around 570 CE into the tribe of Quraysh. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his grandfather and uncle. He later worked as a merchant and became known for his honesty and integrity, earning him the nickname “Al-Amin” (the trustworthy).
At the age of 40, Muḥammad began receiving revelations from God through the archangel Gabriel. These revelations were compiled into the Qurʾān, which is regarded as the immutable word of God.
Mentions in the Qurʾān
- Sūrah ii. 185: “Believe in what hath been revealed to Muḥammad”
- Sūrah iii. 138: “Muḥammad is but an apostle of God”
- Sūrah xxxiii. 40: “Muḥammad is not the father of any of your men, but the Apostle of God, and the Seal of the Prophets”
- Sūrah xlviii. 29: “Muḥammad is the Apostle of God”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In Islamic cultures around the world, the reverence of Muḥammad maintains a consistent thread; he is considered the ultimate model of spiritual and moral conduct. While specifics of honoring him, such as the celebration of Mawlid (his birth) and various regional practices (like the portrayal of his life in poetry and drama), may differ, the deep respect and love for him are universal across the Muslim world.
Synonyms
- The Seal of the Prophets: Final prophet in a line of many prophets.
- Rasūl Allāh (رسول الله): Messenger of God.
Antonyms
- Kafir (“كافر”): A non-believer in Islam, by contrast to one who follows Muḥammad.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Islam: The religion founded upon the message revealed to Muḥammad, meaning “submission” to the will of God.
- Qurʾān: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the word of God as revealed to Muḥammad.
- Hadith: Transcriptions of sayings, actions, and approval/disapproval of Muḥammad compiled after his death.
Exciting Facts
- Multiple Wives: According to both Islamic tradition and most historical sources, Muḥammad married multiple women, which varied in number and included Bibi Khadīja and Bibi Aisha.
- Constitution of Medina: One of the first constitutions written, it created an early form of a social contract that took into account various communities including Muslims, Jews, and pagans.
- Young Leader: Muḥammad’s farsighted leadership saw the rapid expansion of the Islamic state during and after his life, encompassing the Arabian Peninsula.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “Verily in the messenger of Allah you have a good example for the one who hopes in Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah abundantly.” – Qurʾān 33:21
- “He was a prophet and not a poet, and therefore his Qurʾān is law and not literature.” – Thomas Carlyle.
References
- Armstrong, Karen. Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet. HarperSanFrancisco, 1992.
- Watt, W. Montgomery. Muhammad: Prophet and Statesman. Oxford University Press, 1961.
- Brown, Jonathan A.C. Hadith: Muhammad’s Legacy in the Medieval and Modern World. Oneworld Publications, 2009.
Suggested Literature
- Karen Armstrong - Muhammad: Prophet for Our Time.
- Jonathan A.C. Brown - Muhammad: A Very Short Introduction.
- Tariq Ramadan - In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad.
Quizzes
Engage and explore the profound impact of Muḥammad’s life on history, spirituality, and culture. You may discover, as many have, a transformative path that transcends the ages.
Farewell thought: “The journey to understanding is a road paved with persistent search and heartfelt devotion.”
Dr. Iman Al-Hussain, 2023
