The twelfth of Rabi’ Al-Awwal marks the day on which the best of all mankind was born, Prophet Muhammad! He (pbuh) was known to be a remarkable person, so much so, that even non-Muslim scholars and historians have acknowledged him as an exceptional person. There are countless stories about the form of life that Prophet Muhammad embraced, how he treated his companions and those around him, and how he conveyed to the entire world the purest and best of morals. Speaking of non-Muslim scholars and historians, Gandhiji had said, “I wanted to know the best of the life of one (Muhammad) who holds today an 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, it was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for pledges, his intense devotion to his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission.
Here are 5 of many lessons to learn from the richness of Prophet Muhammad’s character and life. May Allah grant us all the honor, joy, and pleasure of joining the Prophet in Al-Jannah insha’Allah <3
1- Honesty
Before his Prophet-hood, Prophet Muhammad was known as Al-Sadeq Al-Ameen (the honest and trustworthy) by all people. Although, back at this time, merchants used to go after more profit even if it involved lying to or deceiving their customers, Prophet Muhammad was loved by everyone for his honesty and integrity, whether it came to his life affairs or trades.
2- Humbleness
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the best example for humbleness. He ate what his people ate and wore what they wore. He (pbuh) forgave his enemies and those who hurt and spread lies about him. He treated everyone with respect, his friends, family, followers, and even enemies.
3- Consistency
His dedication in leading Assayeda Khadija’s massive trade and most importantly in promoting and spreading Allah’s message despite the hardships he had to face doing so was the most inspiring thing ever. He was always driven by his faith in Allah (swt).
4- Listening to other people’s advice
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) always listened to the advice and opinions of his companions. This is called Shura, and Prophet Muhammad relied on it before going through major decisions that affect the Muslim Ummah. This strengthened his leadership and resulted in the optimum decision-making.
5- Resourcefulness
Prophet Muhammad was keen on learning new things and finding other perspectives on different matters. He (pbuh) strived so he can put everything to good use, with the guidance of Allah (swt). He believed that knowledge brings us closer to the Almighty. He even encouraged all Muslims to attain knowledge and learn new information.
These are just a few of Prophet Muhammad’s beautiful traits, ones that made him the best man who has ever lived. For Muslims, he (pbuh) is the last and most perfect Prophet and for non-Muslims, he is considered as a respected, admirable, and eloquent person who has millions of people following his Sunnah up to this day, Alhamdulilah.
May we all learn from his life lessons and be granted the blessing of applying it and following in his footsteps, amen <3
