Meaning of Seerah:
In the Arabic language, the term ‘Seerah’ comes from the basic root verb “Saara, Yaseeru” which means: “to travel or to be on a journey.” The Biography of a person is called seerah, because when we study and read his biography, we actually are traveling or talking about his journey through life. Similarly, when we study the blessed life and the times of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we are traveling in his journey and it is as if we are basically following his footsteps. Take a look at the wide range of biographies offered by Darussalam.
The Arabs used this term for the biography of any individual in their society, but after the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslim prominent scholars and historians have used it exclusively for the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Because of this, when scholars say “Seerah” they mean a biography of the life and times of the best of human beings, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Who no doubt has the Ideal Character.
Why Studying Seerah?
There are many reasons to study Seerah, some of them are listed below:
A Sign of Love for the Prophet (PBUH):
Studying Seerah is a sign of love and it increases our love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Studying seerah is the only way that can foster our weak love for the Prophet (PBUH).
Loving him is enjoined upon us and it is one of the principles of Faith. We should love him more than our parents, children, all people, and even our own selves. Narrated Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children, and all mankind.”
(Al-Bukhari 15).
In fact, the weakness of our love for the Prophet (PBUH) is a result of our ignorance about his Seerah. If we make a habit of reading about his life and teachings, our hearts will be filled with his love.
Read Our Blog On:“The Sealed Nectar” – An award-winning biography Book on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
It is an obligation:
Almighty Allah has instructed us to know our beloved Prophet and Messenger Muhammad (PBUH). He says:
“There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent role model for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allah often.”
(Al-Ahzab 33:21).
One of the important principles of this verse is, to follow the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) in all his words and deeds. The obligation of studying Seerah is apparent from this verse. Therefore, the study of the life and times of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) is the study of an Exemplary Role-Model whom we need to follow.
A Mean to Understand the Quran:
Studying seerah assists us to realize and understand the meaning of the Holy Book of Allah. This in turn helps us Make the Quran a part of our daily life.
It basically educates us about the verses, when, where, and about whom they are revealed. In the same way, the Quran itself teaches the Seerah and helps us to understand it. It means because of studying the biography of the Prophet (PBUH), we can realize why the verses were revealed and their particular time of revelation.
It Empowers our Faith:
Studying seerah is a source of strengthening the Faith. Through studying seerah we can understand the stories of the nations that passed before us. The seerah of the Prophet (PBUH) relates these stories with a full explanation.
We can find explanations of what transpired in their arguments and disputes and how the Prophets were all rejected and harmed. Studying such true stories from the Seerah increases our Faith, hopes, and uplifts our spirits.
Seerah is a Miracle in Itself:
Almighty Allah Had Blessed Prophet PBUH with numerous miracles. The Splitting of the Moon and the talking of the tree. But if we think deeply about the biography of the Prophet (PBUH) we realize that the whole life of the Prophet (PBUH) itself is a miracle.
For instance, the eloquence of the Noble Quran, the encompassing speech, supporting with fear (over the enemy) are signs of miracle and they are the part of his Seerah. Concerning this Imam Ibn Hazam (May Allah’s Mercy Be upon him) said:
“If the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) had not been given any miracle other than his Seerah, it would have been sufficient to prove that he is the Prophet of Allah.”
(Al-milal wan Nihal 2/90)
It means by studying the Seerah of the Prophet (PBUH) we can find many excellent attributes and good manners, which affirms that Seerah itself is a miracle.
Read Our Blog On: When the Moon Split, a popular seerah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Darussalam Publishers is pleased to provide you a range of books on Seerah. When the Moon Split, Golden Seerah, and strategies of Prophet Muhammad are a few to mention.
The best thing is, all of these books are available in digital format and you can study them on your Kindle, iPads, and laptop at eDarussalam.
