In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged where people, particularly from extremist factions of other religions, have engaged in offensive and disrespectful speech against the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace be upon him). These individuals, often lacking both wisdom and knowledge, resort to such actions out of ignorance or hatred. It is critical to address this misconception and misrepresentation of a personality so noble that his life continues to illuminate the world more than 1,400 years after his passing. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) was not just the Prophet of Islam but a beacon of mercy for all of humanity, a figure whose life transcends religious boundaries, and whose character has been acknowledged by thinkers and scholars of various faiths across history.
The Foretelling of Prophet Muhammad in Previous Scriptures
Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) is known as the "Seal of the Prophets," the last and final messenger sent by Allah to guide humanity. His arrival was not a sudden event but had been foretold in previous scriptures such as the Torah, Psalms, and the Gospel. These divine books allude to a figure who would come to complete the message of monotheism.
In the Torah, several passages have been interpreted by Muslim scholars as references to the coming of Muhammad (PBUH). For instance, Deuteronomy 18:18, states, "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put My words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him." This passage suggests the coming of a prophet who would be like Moses, and many Islamic scholars have linked this prophecy to Muhammad (PBUH), who, like Moses, brought a complete and comprehensive law for his people.
Similarly, the Psalms of David (PBUH) contain references that are understood to allude to the final Prophet. Psalm 45:3-4, it says, “Gird your sword upon your thigh, O mighty one, with your glory and your majesty. And in your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness.” The qualities of truth, humility, and righteousness perfectly align with the characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was known for his uncompromising dedication to justice and the well-being of all mankind.
In the New Testament, the Gospel of John 16:13 mentions, "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth." Many Muslim scholars interpret this as a reference to Muhammad (PBUH), who was described as 'Al-Amin' (the Trustworthy) even before his prophethood, and who brought the final message of truth, the Quran, to mankind.
The Quranic Recognition of the Prophet’s Character
The Quran is the final revelation from Allah and stands as the most direct testimony of Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) character and mission. Allah directly refers to the Prophet with various titles, emphasizing his honourable status. Among the most significant is "Rahmatul lil Alameen" (Mercy to the Worlds), found in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107): "And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds." This divine recognition highlights the Prophet’s mission to not only his followers but to all of humanity, establishing him as a universal source of compassion.
Furthermore, the Quran highlights the Prophet’s piety and steadfastness in Surah Ta-Ha (20:1-2), beginning with the address "Ta-Ha", followed by reassurance: "We have not sent down to you the Quran that you be distressed." This shows Allah’s gentle care for His Prophet, affirming his path and calming his heart amidst the challenges he faced.
Titles like "Ya-Sin" (36:1) and "Al-Muzzammil" (73:1), as well as "Al-Mudathir" (74:1), emphasize his devotion to worship, patience, and perseverance in spreading the message of Islam. These titles reflect different aspects of his life—from his constant prayers and supplications in the late hours of the night to his public call for people to return to the worship of one God.
Non-Muslim Scholars’ Praise for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Throughout history, numerous non-Muslim thinkers, historians, and intellectuals have acknowledged the greatness of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) and admired his profound impact on humanity. These individuals, although not of the Islamic faith, recognized the remarkable nature of his character and the wisdom of his teachings.
Mahatma Gandhi, a leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace and justice, remarked about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with deep admiration: “I wanted to know the best of one who holds today’s undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind… I became more than ever convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission.”
The famous French historian Alphonse de Lamartine was similarly impressed by the Prophet. In his book Histoire de la Turquie, he wrote, “If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad?”
Even the Christian writer Thomas Carlyle, in his work Heroes and Hero-Worship, praised the Prophet for his sincerity and dedication. Carlyle, although critical of some aspects of Islamic tradition, could not help but acknowledge the character of the man who founded one of the world’s major religions. He stated, “The lies (Western slander) which well-meaning zeal has heaped round this man (Muhammad) are disgraceful to ourselves only.”
The American scholar Michael H. Hart placed Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at the top of his list in The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History. Hart recognized him as the most successful religious and secular leader in history, citing the profound and lasting impact of his teachings.
The Prophet’s Legacy of Mercy and Justice
One of the most beautiful aspects of Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) legacy is his profound mercy and sense of justice. He was known for his kindness towards both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. His mercy was not limited to human beings but extended to animals and the environment as well. An oft-repeated hadith of the Prophet states, “Whoever is kind to the creatures of God is kind to himself.”
One of the greatest examples of his mercy is illustrated during the conquest of Mecca. Despite years of persecution and hostility from the people of Mecca, when he returned to the city as a victor, he forgave all of his enemies, declaring, "Go, for you are free." This act of mercy won the hearts of many and demonstrated the Prophet’s profound character.
The Prophet’s sense of justice was unparalleled, and it was rooted in the principle that all people are equal before God. He stated in his farewell sermon, “All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action.”
The life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a treasure trove of guidance and wisdom for people of all faiths. Despite the recent rise in hostility and misconceptions about him, history bears witness to the fact that his life, teachings, and character have been admired by people from diverse cultures and religions. From previous scriptures to modern intellectuals, Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) greatness shines through. His message of mercy, peace, and justice remains as relevant today as it was over a millennium ago. The world would do well to heed his example and recognize the profound impact he has had on the course of human history.
E-mail: khalid6484@bgsbu.ac.in
In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged where people, particularly from extremist factions of other religions, have engaged in offensive and disrespectful speech against the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace be upon him). These individuals, often lacking both wisdom and knowledge, resort to such actions out of ignorance or hatred. It is critical to address this misconception and misrepresentation of a personality so noble that his life continues to illuminate the world more than 1,400 years after his passing. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) was not just the Prophet of Islam but a beacon of mercy for all of humanity, a figure whose life transcends religious boundaries, and whose character has been acknowledged by thinkers and scholars of various faiths across history.
The Foretelling of Prophet Muhammad in Previous Scriptures
Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) is known as the "Seal of the Prophets," the last and final messenger sent by Allah to guide humanity. His arrival was not a sudden event but had been foretold in previous scriptures such as the Torah, Psalms, and the Gospel. These divine books allude to a figure who would come to complete the message of monotheism.
In the Torah, several passages have been interpreted by Muslim scholars as references to the coming of Muhammad (PBUH). For instance, Deuteronomy 18:18, states, "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put My words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him." This passage suggests the coming of a prophet who would be like Moses, and many Islamic scholars have linked this prophecy to Muhammad (PBUH), who, like Moses, brought a complete and comprehensive law for his people.
Similarly, the Psalms of David (PBUH) contain references that are understood to allude to the final Prophet. Psalm 45:3-4, it says, “Gird your sword upon your thigh, O mighty one, with your glory and your majesty. And in your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness.” The qualities of truth, humility, and righteousness perfectly align with the characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was known for his uncompromising dedication to justice and the well-being of all mankind.
In the New Testament, the Gospel of John 16:13 mentions, "However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth." Many Muslim scholars interpret this as a reference to Muhammad (PBUH), who was described as 'Al-Amin' (the Trustworthy) even before his prophethood, and who brought the final message of truth, the Quran, to mankind.
The Quranic Recognition of the Prophet’s Character
The Quran is the final revelation from Allah and stands as the most direct testimony of Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) character and mission. Allah directly refers to the Prophet with various titles, emphasizing his honourable status. Among the most significant is "Rahmatul lil Alameen" (Mercy to the Worlds), found in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107): "And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds." This divine recognition highlights the Prophet’s mission to not only his followers but to all of humanity, establishing him as a universal source of compassion.
Furthermore, the Quran highlights the Prophet’s piety and steadfastness in Surah Ta-Ha (20:1-2), beginning with the address "Ta-Ha", followed by reassurance: "We have not sent down to you the Quran that you be distressed." This shows Allah’s gentle care for His Prophet, affirming his path and calming his heart amidst the challenges he faced.
Titles like "Ya-Sin" (36:1) and "Al-Muzzammil" (73:1), as well as "Al-Mudathir" (74:1), emphasize his devotion to worship, patience, and perseverance in spreading the message of Islam. These titles reflect different aspects of his life—from his constant prayers and supplications in the late hours of the night to his public call for people to return to the worship of one God.
Non-Muslim Scholars’ Praise for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Throughout history, numerous non-Muslim thinkers, historians, and intellectuals have acknowledged the greatness of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) and admired his profound impact on humanity. These individuals, although not of the Islamic faith, recognized the remarkable nature of his character and the wisdom of his teachings.
Mahatma Gandhi, a leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace and justice, remarked about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with deep admiration: “I wanted to know the best of one who holds today’s undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind… I became more than ever convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission.”
The famous French historian Alphonse de Lamartine was similarly impressed by the Prophet. In his book Histoire de la Turquie, he wrote, “If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad?”
Even the Christian writer Thomas Carlyle, in his work Heroes and Hero-Worship, praised the Prophet for his sincerity and dedication. Carlyle, although critical of some aspects of Islamic tradition, could not help but acknowledge the character of the man who founded one of the world’s major religions. He stated, “The lies (Western slander) which well-meaning zeal has heaped round this man (Muhammad) are disgraceful to ourselves only.”
The American scholar Michael H. Hart placed Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at the top of his list in The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History. Hart recognized him as the most successful religious and secular leader in history, citing the profound and lasting impact of his teachings.
The Prophet’s Legacy of Mercy and Justice
One of the most beautiful aspects of Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) legacy is his profound mercy and sense of justice. He was known for his kindness towards both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. His mercy was not limited to human beings but extended to animals and the environment as well. An oft-repeated hadith of the Prophet states, “Whoever is kind to the creatures of God is kind to himself.”
One of the greatest examples of his mercy is illustrated during the conquest of Mecca. Despite years of persecution and hostility from the people of Mecca, when he returned to the city as a victor, he forgave all of his enemies, declaring, "Go, for you are free." This act of mercy won the hearts of many and demonstrated the Prophet’s profound character.
The Prophet’s sense of justice was unparalleled, and it was rooted in the principle that all people are equal before God. He stated in his farewell sermon, “All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action.”
The life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a treasure trove of guidance and wisdom for people of all faiths. Despite the recent rise in hostility and misconceptions about him, history bears witness to the fact that his life, teachings, and character have been admired by people from diverse cultures and religions. From previous scriptures to modern intellectuals, Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) greatness shines through. His message of mercy, peace, and justice remains as relevant today as it was over a millennium ago. The world would do well to heed his example and recognize the profound impact he has had on the course of human history.
E-mail: khalid6484@bgsbu.ac.in
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