Biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – Part 2

After the migration to Madinah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) continued to build the foundations of the Islamic community. In Madinah, he was not only a religious leader but also served as a statesman, judge, teacher, and commander. He established a social and political constitution known as the Constitution of Madinah, which laid down principles of coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and other communities. This agreement is considered one of the earliest documented examples of a pluralistic society governed by justice, equal rights, and mutual respect.

One of the Prophet’s key missions in Madinah was to unify the people. He established strong bonds between the Muhajirun (emigrants from Mecca) and the Ansar (the local residents of Madinah). This spirit of brotherhood, selflessness, and cooperation created a strong and unified Muslim community. He taught values such as helping the poor, kindness to neighbors, protecting the weak, and being honest in dealings.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) remained an embodiment of humility and compassion. He lived simply, often sleeping on a mat made of palm leaves and eating basic food like dates and water. Despite his role as a leader, he did not live luxuriously. He would personally help with household chores, mend his clothes, and greet everyone with a smile. He showed immense patience and forgiveness, even toward his enemies. He never retaliated for personal wrongs and always chose mercy over vengeance.

Several key events took place during the Prophet’s years in Madinah. These included:

• The Battle of Badr (624 CE): A turning point in Islamic history. Although outnumbered, the Muslims achieved a significant victory through faith and strategic planning.

• The Battle of Uhud (625 CE): A difficult time when the Muslims suffered losses due to a lack of discipline among some fighters. The Prophet was injured, but his resolve remained strong.

• The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq) (627 CE): This was a defensive battle in which the Muslims dug a trench around Madinah. It was a battle of patience, planning, and perseverance that ended in victory without a direct clash.

Even in times of war, the Prophet (PBUH) laid down clear ethical guidelines: non-combatants like women, children, monks, and the elderly were not to be harmed. Trees and crops were not to be destroyed. Prisoners were to be treated humanely. These principles reflect Islam’s deep concern with justice and human dignity, even in conflict.

One of the most important events of peaceful diplomacy was the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah in 628 CE. Though it initially seemed to favor the Quraysh, it actually opened the door for the spread of Islam. During the peaceful period that followed, thousands of people entered the fold of Islam, and the Muslim community grew rapidly.

In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) returned to Mecca with a large group of Muslims. Despite years of hostility from the Quraysh, he entered the city peacefully and without bloodshed. This event is known as the Conquest of Mecca. He forgave his former enemies and declared a general amnesty. He said, Today, there is no blame on you. You are all free. He then purified the Kaaba of idols and restored it to the worship of the one true God—Allah.

In 632 CE, during his final pilgrimage, the Prophet delivered the famous Farewell Sermon (Khutbat al-Wada’). In it, he reminded the people of the rights of others, the importance of prayer, equality, and avoiding injustice. He stated:

All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab, except by piety and good actions.

He also reminded Muslims to treat women with kindness and uphold their rights.

Shortly after the farewell pilgrimage, the Prophet became ill. On Monday, the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, in the 11th year after Hijrah, he passed away at the age of 63. His death was a deeply emotional moment for his companions, who had grown to love him more than themselves. However, his teachings, character, and legacy continue to guide over a billion Muslims around the world today.

He was buried in the room of his beloved wife Aisha (RA), which is now part of the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Madinah. Muslims from around the globe visit this sacred site to send peace and blessings upon him.