Everyone needs a unique guiding mentor in their lives to imitate and to follow their footsteps. One such exceptional mentor in Islamic history is our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His life and preaching are a shining example for Muslims all over the world; even non-Muslims find his teachings commendable. His whole existence serves as an epitome for the Muslim community and the mere act of trying to follow him can make our lives better in this world and the next one.
Believing in Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a part of Muslim faith. One cannot be included in Islam unless he/she believes in the oneness of Allah and that Muhammad (PBUH) is the prophet of Allah (SWT). This firm faith has developed an unconditional love for the Prophet (PBUH) in the hearts of Muslim Ummah. Allah (SWT) Himself states in the holy Quran:
Say (O Muhammad SAW to mankind): “If you (really) love Allah then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic Monotheism, follow the Quran and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you of your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”- Quran 3:31
Rather it is more appropriate to say that love of Prophet (PBUH) is a part of our faith as the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) states
“None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children and all mankind.” – Sahih al-Bukhari Vol. 1, Book 2, Hadith 15
His life is a complete and perfect role model for the Muslims. His character, as stated by Hazrat Ayesha (R.A), is a complete description of the Holy Quran. In other words if we adopt the Prophet’s (PBUH) teachings and conductwe are following the Quran and its lessons.
The life of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), both before and after Prophethood, is worth studying. He was known all over Makkah for his sincerity, honesty, kindness and exceptional manners. He was intelligent and trust worthy. People used to place immense trust in him with their valuable belongings and never feared that the Prophet (PBUH) would betray them. Before gaining Prophethood, he remained indifferenttowards drinking wine and was appalled by the worshipping of idols. His incomparable personality and distinguished traits can never be praised to their fullest, for no amount of words can completely admire his disposition. Allah (SWT) also praises His beloved Prophet (PBUH) in the following way:
“And verily, you (O Muhammad SAW) are on an exalted standard of character.” Quran (68:4)
The dignified personality of our cherished Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is explained exquisitely in the biography by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarkpuri i.e. “The Sealed Nectar” published by Darussalam Publishers. It is a simple yet beautiful memoir of the Prophet’s (PBUH) personality and life events. It has been awarded first prize by the Muslim World League in the worldwide competition on writing the biography of the Prophet (PBUH) which was held in Makkah Mukarramah in 1979.
