History of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)

The Life of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him): From Birth to Death

Introduction :

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final prophet in Islam, revered as the "Seal of the Prophets." His life, spanning from 570 CE to 632 CE, had a profound impact on the course of human history. His message transformed the Arabian Peninsula and laid the foundation for one of the world's major religions, Islam. This article outlines the key events of his life from birth to death.

Birth and Early Life (570–595 CE)

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was born in 570 CE in the city of Mecca, in present-day Saudi Arabia. This year is known as the Year of the Elephant, due to the failed attack on Mecca by the Abyssinian governor Abraha, who came with an army that included elephants.

He was born into the Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe, a respected and noble family. His father, Abdullah, died before his birth, and his mother, Aminah, passed away when he was just six years old. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, and later by his uncle, Abu Talib.

As a youth, Muhammad (PBUH) was known for his honesty and trustworthiness, earning the nickname Al-Amin (the Trustworthy). He worked as a shepherd and later as a merchant, gaining a reputation for integrity in trade.

Marriage to Khadijah (595 CE)

At the age of 25, Muhammad (PBUH) entered into a marriage with Khadijah, a wealthy and respected businesswoman who had hired him to manage her trading caravans. Impressed by his character, she proposed marriage. Their union was strong and loving, and Khadijah became the first person to believe in his message when he later received prophethood.

The Call to Prophethood (610 CE)

At the age of 40, during a retreat in the Cave of Hira near Mecca, Muhammad (PBUH) received his first revelation through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). The first words revealed were

"Read! In the name of your Lord who created…" (Qur'an, 96:1).

This marked the beginning of his prophethood. Over the next 23 years, he would continue to receive revelations, which were later compiled into the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam.

Early Challenges and Persecution

Initially, his message focused on monotheism, justice, and compassion. However, the Quraysh leadership opposed him because his teachings threatened their social and economic structure. Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers faced severe persecution, social boycotts, and even torture.

Despite this, the number of Muslims slowly grew. Khadijah and Abu Talib, his strongest supporters, passed away in the same year (619 CE), a period known as the Year of Sorrow.

The Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj)

During this time of hardship, Muhammad (PBUH) experienced a miraculous journey known as Isra and Mi'raj, where he was taken from Mecca to Jerusalem and then ascended to the heavens. This journey strengthened his resolve and became a significant spiritual event for Muslims.

Migration to Medina (Hijrah)—622 CE

Due to escalating persecution, Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated to the city of Yathrib, later named Medina (City of the Prophet). This migration, known as the Hijrah, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

In Medina, he established the first Islamic state based on justice, equality, and religious freedom. He created a constitution known as the Constitution of Medina, fostering peace among the diverse communities.

Battles and Treaties

The Prophet (PBUH) and the Muslims had to defend themselves in several battles, including

• Battle of Badr (624 CE)—A significant Muslim victory despite being outnumbered.

• Battle of Uhud (625 CE)—A partial setback for the Muslims.

• Battle of the Trench (627 CE)—A successful defense of Medina.

Eventually, the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah (628 CE) was signed between the Muslims and Quraysh, granting temporary peace.

Conquest of Mecca (630 CE)

Two years later, the Quraysh violated the treaty, prompting the Prophet (PBUH) to march to Mecca with a large force. The city surrendered without bloodshed. Muhammad (PBUH) forgave his enemies, cleansed the Kaaba of idols, and re-established monotheism.

Final Sermon and Death (632 CE)

In 632 CE, during his final pilgrimage to Mecca, the Prophet (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon, emphasizing

• The sanctity of life and property

• Racial equality

• The rights of women

• Adherence to the Qur'an and his Sunnah

Shortly after, he fell ill and passed away in Medina at the age of 63. He was buried in the chamber of his beloved wife Aisha, which is now part of the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi).

Legacy

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings continue to guide over a billion Muslims worldwide. His life serves as a model of patience, humility, justice, and compassion. He left behind not just a religious message but also a framework for a just and ethical society.