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The biography of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is an extensive narrative that encompasses his life from birth to death, highlighting his remarkable journey as the final prophet in Islam.

Early Life

Hazrat Muhammad, whose full name was Muhammad ibn Abdullah, entered this world in the sacred city of Mecca circa the year 570 CE. Before Hazrat Muhammad’s birth, his father, Abdullah, had already passed away, and tragically, his mother, Amina, departed from this world when he was just six years old. Following the passing of his parents, Hazrat Muhammad was nurtured first under the care of his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, and subsequently under the guardianship of his uncle, Abu Talib. Despite the hardships of his early life, Muhammad earned a reputation for honesty, integrity, and wisdom. He became known as “Al-Amin,” meaning the trustworthy one.

Prophethood

At the age of 40, Hazrat Muhammad experienced a profound event while in meditation within the cave of Hira, situated close to Mecca. During this momentous occasion, he received his inaugural divine revelation from Allah (God) through the Angel Gabriel, thereby initiating his prophetic mission and heralding the dawn of Islam. The message he received emphasized the oneness of God and called for people to worship Him alone, abandon idolatry, and uphold justice and compassion.

Opposition and Persecution

Muhammad faced fierce opposition from the Quraysh tribe, who controlled Mecca and benefited from the pagan pilgrimage trade centered around the Kaaba. They rejected his message and subjected him and his followers to persecution, boycotts, and social ostracism. Despite facing considerable challenges and opposition, Hazrat Muhammad persevered unwaveringly in his mission, steadfastly propagating the teachings of Islam.

Migration to Medina

In 622 CE, due to escalating persecution and threats to his life, Muhammad and his followers migrated to the city of Yathrib, later renamed Medina (the city of the Prophet). The event of migration, commonly referred to as the Hijrat, not only marked a significant turning point in the life of Hazrat Muhammad but also served as the inaugural moment for the Islamic lunar calendar. In Medina, Muhammad established a thriving Muslim community based on principles of justice, equality, and mutual cooperation.

State Building and Conflict

In Medina, Hazrat Muhammad assumed the dual roles of guiding the community spiritually and governing as a wise statesman, ensuring both the moral and practical welfare of the society. He drafted treaties, resolved disputes, and laid the foundations for a just and inclusive society. However, the early Muslim community faced numerous challenges, including military confrontations with the Quraysh and other hostile tribes. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Muhammad led his followers to victory in several battles, including the famous Battle of Badr and the Battle of Uhud.

Conquest of Mecca

After years of struggle, Muhammad and his followers returned to Mecca in triumph in 630 CE. Instead of seeking revenge against his former persecutors, Muhammad forgave them and declared a general amnesty. He then cleansed the Kaaba of idols and reinstated it as a center of monotheistic worship. The conquest of Mecca marked a turning point in the spread of Islam and demonstrated Muhammad’s commitment to mercy and reconciliation.

Final Years and Death

Muhammad spent his final years consolidating the Muslim community and spreading the message of Islam throughout the Arabian Peninsula. He delivered his farewell sermon during his last pilgrimage to Mecca, emphasizing the importance of piety, social justice, and brotherhood. In 632 CE, Muhammad fell ill and passed away in Medina at the age of 63. His death marked the end of prophethood, but his legacy as the Messenger of Allah continued to inspire millions of Muslims around the world.

Legacy

Muhammad’s life and teachings have had a profound impact on human history, shaping the development of Islamic civilization and influencing countless individuals across diverse cultures and societies. He is revered as the ideal exemplar of compassion, wisdom, and moral integrity. His Sunnah (traditions) and Hadith (sayings) serve as guiding principles for Muslims seeking to lead righteous and fulfilling lives. Today, over a billion people around the world follow the religion that he brought, making Islam the second-largest religion globally. In summary, the biography of Prophet Muhammad is a testament to his unwavering commitment to God, his exemplary character, and his tireless efforts to establish a just and compassionate society based on the principles of Islam.

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