The Most Beloved Prophet: The Life and Legacy of Muhammad

Muhammad, or Mohammed, as his name was originally spelled, was the founder of the Islamic faith and one of the most influential leaders in the history of human civilization. Born in Mecca in 570 AD, he received his first revelation from Allah when he was 40 years old and spent 22 years as a prophet before passing away at the age of 63. He married Khadijah, who was 15 years older than him, and had nine children; four daughters and five sons.

Key Episodes in the Prophethood
Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, was born in 570 AD. He was born in a family that belonged to the poorest class in society. His father died before he was born, so his mother had to take care of him all on her own. As he grew up, he gained knowledge about Judaism and Christianity through contact with Jews who were living near them at that time. In 610 AD, when he was 40 years old, he received the first revelation from God through an angel named Gabriel.

What was His Last Sermon?
In his last sermon, he reminded the listeners that their deeds would be judged by their intentions rather than the outcome. He commanded his followers to abide by the teachings of Islam and to care for one another. All mankind is from Adam and Eve, he said, An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor does a black have any superiority over white – except by piety and good action.

Afterlife Beliefs
Islam believes in an afterlife, where the deeds a person has done on earth will be judged. In order to enter Paradise, one must believe that there is only one god, Allah; pray five times a day; fast during Ramadan; give money to charity; go on pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if able. Muslims also believe that Jesus was born from the Virgin Mary but was not crucified or resurrected.

Final Testimony
I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger. He brought a message from Allah to our people, teaching us the worship of One God; he was kind to his relatives; he was kind to orphans, widows, poor people; he helped those who suffered calamities with patience. He had the most perfect character.