His nature

Muhammad (peace be upon him) unfailingly cheerful, easy going by nature, and mild mannered. He was not a clamorous loud mouth, nor a repeater of obscenities. He was not a fault finder, nor did he overly praise the others.

The way he spoke

Muhammad (peace be upon him) did not speak unnecessarily and what he said was always to the point and without any padding. His sayings were precise and concise having complete meaning in few words. He spoke with excellence, and there was nu excess in it and no abnormal brevity.

When he emphasized a point, he used to repeat it thrice with a gesture. He spoke of nothing unless he hoped a reward from God for it. He told his companions;

"I am a guarantor for a house in the heart of the Paradise for those who quit arguing even if they were right and I am a guarantor for a house in the middle of the Paradise for those who quit lying even if they were kidding and I am a guarantor for a house fn the highest part in the Paradise for those who behave with good manners." (Sahih Abu Dawood^

i f

His passions

He kept his feelings under firm control. When annoyed, he would turn aside or keep silent. When someone commits an act that violates God's Law, he used to show serious anger and firm stand. No one would stand against his anger when matters of the Lord's truth were opposed, until he had triumph, but he would never get angry for his own sake.

How did he deal with people? Muhammad (peace be upon him) was always the first to greet the others and would not withdraw his hand from a hand shaker till the other man withdrew his.

Whoever saw him unexpectedly would admire and revere him. And whoever socialized or associated with him familiarly, loved him. He was gentle by nature. He was neither coarse nor disdainful of anyone.

When he looked at the others, he looked at them in full face. If someone called him he didn't turn his face only, but gave attention with his whole body.

ml

When he would go to visit a group, he would sit in the nearest available spot. He ordered his corn pan ions to follow his practice. He would give those seated near him his full share of attention in such a way that no one would think others had been given precedence over him. He didn't reserve fixed pieces among the people to be seated. He was fair with his companions and all people. They were distinguished only by virtue and devotion to God.

His style of living

Everything he did was in moderation, without excess or contrariness. He never criticized the food or drink that was prepared for him, nor did he overly praise it,

at home, he would divide his time into three parts, one for God, one for his family, and one for himself. He always Joined in household work and would at times mend his clothes, repair his shoes and sweep the floor. He used to dress well and smell good.

(Sahlh Bukhari, Chapter; Kuabul Adab)

After dawn prayers, he would remain sitting in the mosque reciting the Holy Qur'an and praises of Allah, till the sun rose. After midnight he used to get up for the (Tahajjud) prayers which he never missed even once in his life (Bukhari,sahih Bukhara,

27

He had declared unlawful for himself and his family I anything given by the people by way of zakat or sadaqa (types of charity). He was so particular about it, that he would not appoint any member of his family as a zakat collector.

His house was but a hut with walls of unbaked clay and a thatched roof of palm leaves covered by camel skin.

Muhammad (pbuh) said : "What have I to do with worldly things. My connection with the world is like that of a traveler resting for a while underneath the shade of a tree and then moving on,"

When he died, he did not leave a cent or any property except his white mule and a piece of land which he had dedicated for the good of the community (Saiiih BukharlL

Personal Details

Muhammad was illiterate: He could not read or write. He never lived outside Mecca or sought foreign knowledge, Muslims believe that Muhammad fpbuh) conveyed the "Holy Qur'an" as the Message of God and His Book to all people. He conveyed it letter by letter and word by word without rephrasing any part of it with his own words.

Muhammad's sayings and teachings were not mixed with the Holy Qur'an: They were collected in books which are called "The Surinah of

the Prophet" which means his teachings, way of life and explanation of the Book {The Holy Qur'an).

Working Life

Childhood -mid twenties

Mid twenties -40 years old

40-63 years old

He worked as a shepherd for some time (looking after sheep and goats for others), in addition, he worked in trading with his uncle Abu-Tallb. According to authentic narrations, Muhammad was 12 yea rs old when he, for the first I imc joined his uncle Abu-Talib in a trading trip to Syria.

He worked as a mere ha nt or a t rader for a wea Ithy woman called Khadijah who had a general trading business (they used to buy commodities from one area end sell them in another). Muhammad was known in his community as a successful and h o ne 51 tra d esma n. He wa s famo js for his fidelity, integrity and trustworthiness. It was not long before he earned the title of "As-Sadiqul Ameen" which means, "the truthful and the trustworthy"

When he was 40 years old (year 610 CE) Muhammad received the divine revelation and dedicated his life to conveying God's Message to all people. He taught people the oneness of God and conveyed God's Book (The Qur'an) which calls for social justice, peace, harmony and welltjeing.

Marital Status

Married to one wife for 25 years; Muhammad married Khadijah, the daughter of Khuwaylid, who came from a noble family called Asad. 3

She was a respected woman in hercommunityand she was a widow. Muhammad worked for her for two years before she proposed marriage to him through a third party She found him a very loyal, transparent and ethical person.

Successful marriage: Although Khadijah was; 15 years older than Muhammad, both of them came from a similar social class in the community.

The age difference was no obstacle to the establishment of a successful marriage which lasted for 25 years until Khadijah died in the year 619 CE at the age of 65,

Muhammad remarried after r~ Khadijah passed away.

A father of 6children and a family man:

Muhammad & Khadijah lived in harmony and peace; they had four daughters (Zaynab, Ruqayya, Urn Kulthoum & Fatima) and two sons (Al-Qassim who died when he was 3 years old and Abdullah who died

Muhammad loved Khadijah and was loyal to her and his children

On several occasions he described her a* the best woman of her time alike to Mary the mother of Jesus who was the best woman of her time. (Narrated by Bukhari}

at the age of 4). Muhammad used to spend time with his family, help his wife in house matters, sew his own clothes and look after his children.

Photo- taken from Sdif ce Cetnet&y which is next to Proptttt Muhammad Masque in Madinah. 5oim> otMuhammad's companions, t etowes. wivei and children wett bmi9d in this remtrery

Mission Accomplished in 23 Years

610CE

Divine revelation commenced: Muhammad (pbuh) received the Mes sage of God 3 . H e was appointed as the Messenger of God to convey God's Words to humanity. A mission that required strong belief dedication, commitment and honesty,

610- 612 CE Core Muslims formed:

Muhammad invited his friends, his inner circle and selected good quality people, to accept Islam. In the first three years after prophecy, around 130 people accepted Islam and became a strong nucleus that was able to spread Islam publicly. These core Muslims were a mix of rich and poor people.

61 3-61 5 CE

Muhammad's public invitation resisted: Muhammad and his followers started to talk to people openly about Islam, Although Muhammad was known as a trustworthy and

an honest man, Mecean leaders did not accept his invitation to embrace Islam and resisted him. They described him as a poet, a magician and a crazy man.

Muhammad tempted and threatened: Meccan leaders tried to dissuade Muhammad from calling people to Islam by tempting and threatening him. At the same time they tried to preventpeople from I isten i ng to h im. Th ey showed increased hostility towards new Muslims,They persecuted and tortured the poor and weak Muslims.

Muhammad supported his followers and sent some of them to Abyssinia: Muhammad was very close to his fol lowers. H e u sed to meet th e m at Al-A rqa m Hou se whi c h was like a small college, He taught them f****\ a values and morals and instilled feelings of ^ " Q responsibility and commitment.

Muhammad saw the suffering and tribulation some of his followers endured and advised them to seek refuge in Abyssinia, describing It as a land of virtue ruled by a fair Christian king, under whom no one was treated unjustly.

Two influential men embraced Islam: Two strong and wel I respected Meccan men accepted Islam, Omar Bin Al-Khattab and Hamza Bin Abdul-Muttalib (Muhammad's uncle),That was an importantturning point for Muslims. Hamza became a strong supporter and protector for Muhammad until he (Hamza) died in the battle of Uhud [625 CE).Three years after the passing away of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Omar became the second caliph and ruled the Islamic state for 11 years.

616-618CE

Muhammad boycotted: Meccan leaders boycotted Muhammad and his followers and imposed a social and economical blockade on them which lasted for 3 years. During this time; Muhammad and his followers suffered great tribulation. This period was a tough test for their patience, belief and commitment to the truth.

619- 620 CE

A Sorrowful year: Meccan chiefs cancelled the social and economical blockade as they found it not useful. In the same year, Muhammad's wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu-Talib passed away.

Muhammad {pbuh) lost hope in Mecca and decided to convey the Message of God and seek support outside Mecca. He went to the city of Ta'if but was met with hostility^. In addition, he spoke to more than 20 Arab tribes about Islam but he didn't receive any positive response.

620- 622 CE

A glimpse of hope: Muhammad met six people from Vathrib (a city located 450 km north of Mecca} during the pilgrimage time and talked to them about Islam. They believed Muhammad {pbuh) and returned to their city with intentions to invite more people from their own tribe and other tribes in Yathrib. They agreed to return to Mecca the next year at the time of pilgrimage to meet again with Muhammad "the Prophet and the Messenger of God".

37

New Muslims pledged allegiance to Muhammad:

The same group returned the following year {621 CE)with six more people 5 . They pledged their allegiance to Muhammad (pbuh) (accepting him as the Messenger of God) and promising him:

(1) not to worship anyone except {Allah) The One God r

(2) not to steal, (3) not to commit adultery, {4) not to kill, (5) not to slander neighbours and (6) not to disobey the Messenger of God,

The group went back to Yathrib and invited their tribal leaders and their people to accept Islam, They returned again in the following year {622 CE) at the time of pilgrimage with more than 70 men and two women. A similar pledge of allegiance was given again to Prophet Muhammad fpbuh).

A new Muslim community formed 450 km north of Mecca: The leaders of the two main tribes in Yathrib (Aws & Khazraj} embraced Islam and subsequently their people became Muslims. Muhammad the Prophet (pbuh) was invited to come to Yathrib and become its ruler and leaden

622 CE

Chiefs of Mecca plotted to kill Muhammad; migration to Yathrib commenced: Things were becoming worse in Mecca. Muhammad asked Meccan Muslims 6 to migrate to Vathrib Following their migration, Muhammad (pbuh) migrated to Yathrib in September 622 CE. His migration represents the most important turning point in the Islamic history. From Yathrib, Islam blossomed, an Islamic state was established end a just social order was bom.

623-624 CE

Muhammad chosen the ruler of Yathrib: The people of Yathrib were a mix of Arabs and Jews, Although there were two main Arab tribes and three smaller Jewish tribes, the Arab community was larger than the Jewish one and had the ruling power. Muhammad, "The Prophet of God J ' was chosen as the ruler of Yathrib willingly and peacefully with the agreement of the majority of people.

39

Muhammad changed the name of the multicultural society:"Madiriah" was the new name Muhammad (pbuh) gave to the city of Yathrib.

After the migration of the Mecca n Muslims, Yathrib no longer belonged to a certain group of Arabs* instead, it became the homeland of believers who accepted Islam,

Since there were Jewish tribes in Yathrib and other Arab people who didn't embrace Islam, Muhammad (pbuh} did not call it the city of Islam. Instead, it was named "Al-Madinah" which means 'The City" in which all inhabitants had similar citizenship rights,

Muhammad called for peace and unity in Madman; In his first public address to the people of Madinah, Muhammad delivered a very concise speech which promoted harmony and social cohesion.

He said: "O People, seek and spread peace and offer food to each other, look after your kinship and pray to God at night while others are sleeping so you gain God's pleasure and enter His paradise".

Muhammad linked these acts to God's pleasure in order to motivate people to love each other and live in peace and harmony in a multicultural

society.

623-624CE

Muhammad formed the first constitution and charter of human rights and liberties: Most of the Jews hoped that the last Prophet would come from a Jewish background. Although the majority of Jews did not accept Muhammad as a Messenger of God, Muhammad (as the ruler of the state) formed the first "Constitution and Charter of Human Rights and Liberties'' to which all Arab and Jewish tribes agreed upon and signed,

r~m*y^— —- — ^

The constitution guaranteed the freedom of conscience and worship for Muslims and Jews as well as Arabs who did not accept Islam.

In addition, the constitution protected the safety and security of all citizens in Madinah and required all parties who signed the covenant for the constitution to be part of the national defence should Madinah be attacked by enemies. The constitution stated justice, human rights, liberties and prohibition of crime and immoral practices.

624 CE

The unavoidable battle of Badr: When Muslims migrated from Mecca to Madinah, many of them were forced to abandon their homes and their properties were confiscated.

The chiefs of Mecca used the confiscated money in trade and business. Muslims knew about a trade caravan belonging to the Meccan chiefs, led by their enemy Abu-Sufyan which would pass through a trade route close to Madinah.

Muhammad (pbuh) called upon Muslims to take, the caravan in return for their wealth that was confiscated in Mecca. A force of only 313 Muslims took up the mission. The Meccan intelligence advised Abu-Sufyan to change the route of the trade caravan. In addition, Mecca sent an army of 950 soldiers to fight the Muslim force which was not prepared for war and was far less equipped than the Meccan army.

It was astonishing and beyond expectation that Muslims won their first battle against the Meccan chiefs. Many Meccan chiefs and important figures were killed in this battle.

42 625 CE

Meccan chiefs attacked Muhammad and his followers In the battle of Uhud: In retaliation for their loss In the battle of Badr and their fear of losing their leading role in Arabia, Meccan chiefs with some Arab allies, sent an army of 3000 soldiers to attack Muslims at the mount of Uhud north of Madinah,

Location of Uhud - Madinah - Saudi Arabia

The Muslims lost this battle and Muhammad {Pbuh) was wounded but saved. In the battle of Uhud some of Muhammad's companions were killed including his beloved uncle Hamza.

'.■Viriv 1 i QfLlhijd BoRlc (JhuJ«m*r»y - Madinah - Saudi Arabia

43

626 CE

Mecca ns and other tribes attacked Muhammad and his followers in the battle of trench: This battle is also called the "Battle of Confederates" Since Muhammad was not killed in the previous battle, Meccan chiefs and some Arab & Jewish tribes called for a united effort and a comprehensive assault to kill Muhammad and destroy the Muslim community,

10,000 soldiers marched towards Madinah. After consulting his companions, Muhammad (pbuh) decided to adopt the proposal of a Persian Muslim named Salman to dig a trench on the northern access of Madinah (5.5 km long X 4,6m wide},

Muslims were in their most awkward situation and tried their best including psychological warfare, to defend themselves. After a month-long siege the meccan army and its allies became impatient and strong storms and wind blew which forced the confederates to pack up their tents and withdraw,

627 CE ^ HI

Treaty of Hudaybiya, a truce for 10 ^ff^^B

years; One year after the battle of trench, jHjMJM

Muhammad (pbuh) took a peaceful initiative ^QUfl

to perform Umrafi (visit the Ka'bah House of

God in Mecca and perform other religious rites)

, Visiting Mecca for the purpose of worship was a religious

right that Mecca undertook to give to all people in Arabia.

It was a great surprise for Meccan chiefs to see Muhammad approaching Mecca with 1400 civilians coming from Madinah.

After several negotiations, a truce was made between the Meccan chiefs and Muhammad (pbuh) for 10 years during which time Muhammad and his companions reTurned to their homes with a condition to come again to visit Mecca in the following year (628 CE). The truce had many other terms with which the Muslims were disappointed because they weighed heavily on the Meccan side.

628- 629 CE

During the truce, Muhammad conveyed God's Message inside & outside Arabia; The truce was a golden chance for Muhammad (pbuh) to convey the Message of God and freely talk to people about Islam without being stopped or intercepted by other forces.

Muhammad {pbuh) sent delegations to other Arab tribes in Arabia and wrote letters to The rulers and kings of

neighbouring countries and superpowers such as Persia, Byzantine and Egypt inviting them to accept Islam as "the Message of God" Muslims increased in numbers as people found the truth in Islam.

45

630 CE

Peaceful take-over of Mecca: Within less than 2 years, the truce was broken from the Meccan side when their allies killed 20 Muslims.

tn response to this shocking act Muhammad (pbuh) marched with 10,000 Muslims to conquer Mecca but asked his soldiers not to fight any one unless they were fought. 7

The Meccan chiefs were embarrassed and were not prepared to fight the Muslims. When the Muslim army arrived in Mecca, Muhammad (pbuh} addressed the whole people of Mecca confirming the oneness of God, referring victory to Him and reminding people that all of them descended from Adam and Adam was created from dust of the ground.

Then he asked the people of Mecca 'What do you expect me to do with you?. They replied: "We hope for the best. After all, you have been a gracious brother and a courteous cousin"

Exemplar forgiveness: Despite the hardship caused by the Meccan people during the last 21 years, Muhammad fpbuh) behaved with high moralities. He replied: "Have no fear today. Depart then (to your homes'), you are free". Muhammad's address was very influential and many people came to him to make a pledge and embrace Islam.

630-631 CE

Arab tribes embraced Islam: After the peaceful takeover of Mecca, delegations from all over Arabia came to learn about Islam. Except the Hawazen tribe who fought the Muslims and eventually lost the battle of Hunayn, most Arab tribes embraced Islam, Muhammad (pbuh) sent

A t the same event, Mithammad(pbuh) knocked down ail idols around and otitbeKa'bahiTHe House of Cod) which was erected by Prophet A brah&m (pbvh) to glorify one God (The Creator of the universe and aii beingsh

47

632 CE

Muhammad's farewell address: Muhammad's mission was accomplished and his life was nearing to an end. In the year 632 CE Muhammad (pbuh) performed pilgrimage and gave his final sermon to more than 100,000 people.

His sermon reminded people about the basic elements of faith, belief In One God, sanctity of life, wealth & property, equality of all races, rules of justice, women's rights and obligations, exploitation and monopoly, morality and the rights of others.

The passing away of Muhammad: Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) passed away in his home in Madinah in the year 632 CE leaving only few possessions. He did not leave any money or wealth but a legacy of faith, that is still illuminating with God's light, the hearts of millions of people around the globe.

<RII!IKi>

To err is human , to forgive is Divine - ktewiukrVape

The Sacred Masque (Al Masjid Al-Arabia.This is the holiest Mosque in Islam The black building Is the Kaaba. Muslims believe God Commanded Prophet Abraham to erect or establish the Kaaba to glorify and worship Him (The One God}. When Muslim? pray to God, they direct their faces {from all over the world) toward the Kaaba,

53

TftowCow, tfte cave Muhammad (pbuhj and his companion Abu Baker rested in for three nights in the WM beginning of his trip (migration to Madman)

ihis

I, la

the

According to authentic narrations, Muhammad (pbuh} and his companion Abu Bakr rested near a large rock on the migration way from Mecca to Madinah -Th e above rock was found on the same way of migration trip and it is believed to be the same rock

Aerial view of

Location afUhyd {fqffie. The photo shows the archery mount and the cemetery of Martyrs. More than seventy of Muhammad's companions and his beloved uncle Hamza tire buried there.

Location of Battle of&adr, the area where Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions camped

An imaginary view of Madinah City showing Prophet Muhammad's (Pbuh) mosque (Nabawi Mosque) surrounded by houses and palm Trees.

(Courtesy of: Madinah Research and Studies Center, Saudi Arabia)

Among the known prophets of God, Muhammad (pbuh) is the only prophet that his burial placek precisely identified and hk followers are certain about the exact location of his tomb.

Muhammad (pbuh) was butted at his home which is attached to his mosque " Ai Nabawi Mosque" in Madinah.

This pha to shows the s ide of the mosque building where peoote ton enter to see the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and bit bouse which is currently caged.

i i

ENDNOTES

T According to some narrations and calculations Muhammad (pbuh} was born in the year 571 CE.

2 Some narrations state that the marriage of Muhammad (pbuh) and Khadljah lasted for 24 years and several months.

3 There is one and only one Qur'an which is revealed to Muhammad (pbuh} in original Arabic, However, there are many translations for the meanings of the verses in the Holy Qur'an to different languages such as English, French, Chinese, etc.The quoted verses in this pocket guide from the Holy Qur'an are presented in simple Enqlish based on the English translation mentioned In the cited references.

4 Muhammad {pbuh) was attacked In Tai'f and experienced the Worst treatment there. When he left Taif he Was very disappointed. According to some narrations, he called God wlih a wonderful supplication (see next page).

5 Aqaba or AJ-Bay'aa "Pledge" Mosque: established by the Abbasside Caliph Abu Jaafar Al Manssour on the same place that is believed the new Muslims from Madinah pledged commitment to Prophet Muhammad {pbuh) as they embraced Islam.

6 A small Muslim community stayed in Mecca and were not able to migrate to Vathrib {Madinah).

7 The Islamic calendar starts from the date Muhammad (pbuh) migrated from Mecca to Madinah {13 |h Sep 622 CE approx. The peaceful taking over of Mecca was on the 8 1 " Jan 630 CE approx).

n

Muhammad's Supplication To God

4 tfl \ ^

V 1

ly weakness, n.

0 my Lord, it is to You that I bring my weakness,

helplessness & humiliation,

O The Most Merciful of the merciful ones, You are the Sustainer of those who are deemed weak and You are my Sustained

On whom (but You) shall I rely? On somebody dislant who regards me with displeasure or on a foe (enemy) to whom I have surrendered.

So long as You are not displeased with ine, then I have no cause for sadness.

1 take refuge in your light by which the darkness is illuminated and in which both this world and the next

are set aright.

The well-being which You bestow upon me is too all-encompassing for You to pour out Your auger or displeasure upon me.

To You I shall continue to turn until I have won Your favour.

Chapter 4 73

Muhammad & Prophecy

Muhammad didn't know that he would be a Prophet: He l-ed an ethical and ordinary life, He was known for his fidelity, integrity and trustworthiness. He never worshipped idols when idol worship was rife in a polytheistic society.

He always believed that the whole universe must have been created and controlled by one God. He used to worship God by retreating; to a cave {634m above sea level} in a mount 4 km east of Mecca [Makkah).

The cave is known as cave Hira in the mount of Hira or Noor (i.e. light); this is because Muhammad received revelation from God when he was meditating in this cave.

It wasn't illusion and it wasn't z dream: When Muhammad reached forty years old, he used to meditate frequently in Cave Hira. At the month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the lunar year, 610 CE approx), Archangel Gabriel appeared to him for the first time while he was in the cave and asked him to "Read" Muhammad was frightened.

/4

As he was illiterate, he could not read and did not know what to read. Archangel Gabriel repeated his word "read" again and again then he recited the following verses from God:

"Read in the Name of your Lord Who created (every thing), fie created mfin from a ehil (dinging It) ihs wall a) die womb}.. .Read! and your Lord is die All-Munificent.. Who has taught man by the pen...He taught man what he didn't know!"

"I he Holy Our in, V 1 -5, Oi 96

Archangel Gabriel disappeared after this short meeting.

Muhammad was terrified: He was extremely scared. He ran back to his home. He was trembling. He told his wife Khadijah what happened to him and asked her to cover him.

She told him that God would not let him down or allow devils to touch him as he kept good relations with his relatives, helped the poor people and liked doing charity.

75

A Divine revelation or satank whispers? Muhammad was afraid that he was possessed by evil. He went with his wife Khadijah to tell the whole story to Waraqa Bin Nawfal (a relative of Khadijah) who was a religious Christian person and knowledgeable in the Bible. Waraqa predicted that Muhammad would be a Prophet and assured him that what he experienced was a Divine revelation similar to what Moses the Prophet of Jews received. Waraqa wished to support Muhammad but he was very old at that time. He told Muhammad that he would be driven out of Makkah by his own people and would be treated with hostility by some people.

You are God's Messenger: Muhammad needed a few days to settle down and didn't return to the mount. After sometime Archangel Gabriel came back to him and informed him that he would be a messenger of God, Allah The Lord of all beings. He recited the following verse from Allah (exalted be Him):

"Q you cloaked (enveloped in your garments); Arise and warn; and glorify your Lord; and purify your clothing; and keep away front bad deeds and don't consider your fulfilment of these orders as a favour to God or people; and be patient for the sake of your lord"

The Holy Quran, V1-7, '0s 7-i

/(->

Gabriel continued to see Muhammad (pbuh) over a period of 23 years during which the Holy Qur'an {God's Words) was revealed to Muhammad by Gabriel in order to convey it to all mankind.

Muhammad conveyed Gods' Commandments to his people : Muhammad acted according to the revelation he received in year 610 CE. He invited his people and the whole Arabia to believe in one God (Allah) and obey His Commandments as they are set for the well being of the whole humanity.

What fs the "Message" about? The Message of Islam is based on "Aqidah" i.e. creed (as a statement of faith and belief in One God the creator of all beings) and "Shariah" i.e. God's Law; the system and regulations that govern people's day to day transactions, activities and practices.

Shariah is divided into three main branches: (1) Worship: religious practices and deeds such as daily prayers, fasting, supplications, giving Zakat (alms), etc. (2) Morals: good behaviors, etiquettes and values such as honesty sincerity, fidelity, love, cooperation, etc, (3) Life transactions and dealings: (Islamic civil law) rules of justice, peoples rights, commerce, etc).

Note: After receiving divine revelation, Muhammad focused on leaching people monotheism (Aqidah) for thirteen yean. After migration to Madinah, there was more focus on explaining and implementing

God's Commandments

"Say (O Muhammad): Come, 1 will recite what your Lard proh ibited you from, (1) Don't join any partners as equal with Hint; (2) And be good to your parents, (3) And don't kill your children on a plea of want, We provide sustenance for you and for them; {4) And don't approach or gel dose to doing shameful deeds openly or secretly (e.g. adultery and deeds of corruption);

(5) And don't ktU any soul whkh God made sacred except by way of justice and taw. Wiis is what He commands you, thus you may learn wisdom; (6) And don't touch the orphans' wealth or property, except to improve it, until he or she reaches maturity;

V

(7, 8) And give measure and weight wiiii (full) justice (when buying & selling and when doing financial & non financial transactions). We place no burdens on any one but that which he or she can bear; (9} And whenever you speak (or bear witness) speak justly even if near relative is concerned; (JO) And fulfil the Covenant of God, Ihis is what He commands you that you may remember "

■Ihcllob-Our'an V 152, Or 6

/8

A practical introduction of Muhammad's teachings in Abyssinia; Jafar bin Abi-Talib was among eighty Muslims who fled for protection In the land of Abyssinia {currently Ethiopia in Africa). Speaking to the King of Abyssinia on behalf of the Muslims who sought asylum there, Ja'far said:

"O King, we were once people living in ignorance (lack of knowledge and unawareness), worshiping idols, eating carrion, committing acts of abomination, neglecting our kith & kin, treating our neighbours badly and allowing the strong among us to oppress the weak. This is how we lived until God sent us a messenger from among ourselves, a man whose family origin, honesty, integrity and chastity were well known to us.

He called upon us to worship God alone and leave away the stones and idols which we worshipped as our forefathers had done. He instructed us to be truthful in our words, to fulfil our promises and to respect our obligations to our blood relations and he forbade us from committing abominations,

So we trusted & believed him and followed the message he received from God. However, our people denounced

us, tortured us and did everything in their capacity to turn us away from our religion. When they continued to

oppress us, we came to your land choosing you above all others in order to get protection and be treated with impartiality."

A Christian King acknowledged Muhammad's religion: After Ja'far delivered his talk, the King of Abyssinia (who was a religious and God fearing person) asked Jafar to recite some of the "Book" revealed to Muhammad, Ja'far recited a portion from the chapter "Mary" 1 in the Holy Quran until the King wept and his beard was moist with tears. The King then said:

"The message brought by Muhammad and that which was brought by Jesus are from a single source".

One GocLOne Message

The prophets and messengers of God in the Holy Qur'an:

Islam acknowledges all prophets and messengers God sent before Muhammad (pbuh) for the guidance of humanity. The/ confirmed one message "monotheism" which is i the belief in God's existance and oneness,

God sent them to educate people about the purpose of life, protect them from falling astray and teach them good morals.

The Holy Qur an mentioned 25 prophets and messengers by name and focused on the stories of some of them. For example, in the Holy Qur'an Adam was mentioned 25 times, Noah was mentioned 43 times, Abraham was mentioned 69 times, Moses was mentioned 136 times and Jesus was mentioned 25 times,

Muhammad (pbuh) said: "My similitude in comparison with

the other prophets before me, is that of a man who has built a house completely and excellently except for a place of one brick. When people see the house, they admire its beauty and say: how splendid the house will be if the missing brick is put in its place. So I am that brick, and I am the last of the Prophets", {Narrated by Bukhari 4.734,4.735)

Rl

Verily We sent messengers before you, among them those of whom We have told you (their story), and some of whom We have no( told you (their s(ory);

and it was not given to any messenger that he should bring a sign (miracle) except by Gods leave (permission)

The Hoty Our an. V 78. Ch 40

Say: We have believed in Allah and that which is revealed unto us and ihat which was revealed unto Abruhanh and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob and the tribes, and that which Moses and Jesus received, and that which the Prophets received from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and unto Him we have surrendered.

The Holy Qur an, V 1J6, Ch 2

To rah, Gospel and Qur'an are God's revelations to mankind; Believing in Gods revealed Books before the Holy Qur'an is an essential pillar of the Islamic faith. Muslims believe that the Holy Qur'an does not contradict previous revelations but it does point out and correct deviations from truth that happened through the history.

We did reveal the Torah, where in it there is guidance and

a light. Ih* IMy Quran. V44.0 5

Ajftj VVc sent following in their footsteps, testis, the son of Mary confirming that which came before him in the Torah.

and We gave him the Gospel in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instructions for the righteous.

The Holy Quran, V 46, Oh 5

And unto you (Muhammad) We revealed the Book ffhe Holy Quran) with the truth, confirming whatever Scripture was before it, and a watcher (criterion) over it

The Hdy Quran, V 4ft, Ch 5

Those whom God bestowed favor among the Prophets, of the descendants of Adam and of those whom We carried (in the ship) with Noah, and of the seed of Abraham and Israel, and from among those whom We guided and chose, When the revelations of (The Lord) The Beneficent were recited unto them, they fell in prostration, adoring and weeping.

Hps I Ebty Quran, V 58, Ch 19

Table 1: The life at main prophets

Muhammad and Abraham: Abraham is considered as the father of prophets in the Jewish, Christian and Islamic religions because most of the known prophets were from his offspring, Muslims believe that prophet Muhammad is his descendent through his first son Ishmael who was also the father of many Arab tribes. On the other hand, the nation of Israel and many prophets such as Jacob, Joseph, Aaron and Moses have descended from his second son Isaac.

Abraham dedicated his life and struggled to teach people monotheism. The Holy Qur'an frequently mentioned Abraham and indicated that after he put an effort in searching for the truth and recognized the oneness of God "The One Deity'; Abraham practically proved his sincerity, honesty thankfulness and obedience to God. He presented one of the greatest and most memorable examples in the history for full submission to One God even in the most difficult situations.

Who is better in religion than the one who submits him / herself to Allah (sufttnder his/her purpose to God) while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham (tradition inclining towards truth the upright? And Allah chose Abraham as an intimate friend. [lie Hoty Quran, V J 25. Ch 4

He was a man of truth who showed an exemplar obedience to God, therefore, according to the Holy Qur"an, God chose Abraham as a friend and as one of the elite in the World and among the righteous in the Hereafter (VI25, Ch 4, VI30, Ch 2). He guided him to the right religion and made him an "Imam™ Le. a leaderfor people (VI24, Ch 2} and described him as a nation (VI20, Chi6).

Abraham is revered by Muslims as the person who gave them their name as "Muslims" (i.e. those who believe in One God and submit to Him) (V78,Ch 22).

"Abraham was neither a few, nor a Christian; bathe was "Musliman Hanifan'an upright man who had surrendered and sixcerety submitted to Aitah (God), and he was not of the idolaters" 'llie Hot* Qur'an, V 67, Ch i

Matt 1 : The origin of the name "Abraham" was Abram or Avram and it is written and pronounced "Ibrahim" in Arabic The Roman Catholic Church calk Abraham "our father m Faith". The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates him as the "Righteous Forefather Abraham"

It is believed that the first building of worshipping one God was established when Adam first descended on the earth- Muslims believe that the most important person who rebuilt this building and raised its walls was Prophet Abraham together with his son Ishmael. The building which is cubical in shape is called "Ka'bah". It is located in Mecca* (Makkah) which is in the valley of Bacca (currently in Saudi Arabia). God imposed a duty upon Abraham and his son to purify the Ka'bah for those who pray, meditate and prostrate to Him. God made it a place of worship, and a sanctuary (a safe place and a resort] for the people,

Abraham and Ishmael's Supplication

'Our Lord! make us submissive unto You and of our Seed (descendants) a nation submissive unto You, and show us our ways (rites) of worship, and accept our repentance. You are the Most Forgiving the Most Merciful^

The Holy Qur an, V 128, Ch 2

rEvery year, more than three million Muslims perform pilgrimage "Hajy" to the Mosque of Sanctuary in Makkah [Mecca - Saudi Arabia). It is the fifth pillar of Islam that must be done once in a lifetime for those who have the financial and health capabilities to perform it,

Muhammad (pbuh) taught people how to perform Hajj, which mainly contains Abrahamlc rites. He circumambulated (circulated or walked around the Kaaba) which is the cubical building established by Abraham as the House of God, Circulation is performed seven times and goes counterclockwise as an act of submission to God which is also harmonious with the motion of the planets and even the electrons.

Then he prayed behind Abraham's station. Currently it is an enclosure that contains Abraham's footprint on a piece of rock. (Muslims call it Maqam I brahim).

Then Muhammad [pbuh) walked between the Safa and Marwa hills, the same place Ha gar walked thousands of years ago searching for water after her husband Abraham left her there with their son Ishmael. Abraham asked her to stay there as an act of obedience and submission to God's Command Who wanted the place to become a sanctuary and a place of worship.

The distance between these two hills is approximately 395 m,This Hajj rite is called Sa'ee i.e. a brisk walk between Safa and Marwa hills. It consists of 7 laps (with a total distance of 2.76 Km), starting from Safa and finishing at Marwa.

Sa'ee resembles the day to day motion, activity, actions, travel, effort and acts a person performs during his / her life. These acts and deeds must be for useful and value adding goals.

In addition to other Hajj rites, Muhammad (pbuh) went to a place currently known as "Jamarat" in a town called Mina [fi Km east of Makkah), There he threw stones in resemblance of Abraham's act, when he stoned the Satan who appeared to him as an old man trying to dissuade him from slaughtering his son as a sacrifice to God. Abraham stoned him several times. When Muslims perform the same act they in fact challenge the Satan and the inner evil desires within themselves.

93

Finally, as God saved Abraham's son's life and instead substituted a ram, Muhammad (pbuh) taught Muslims to provide a sacrifice to God by slaughtering a sheep or a goat as a symbol of Abraham's sacrifice, and d ivide nhe m eat a m o n g th e poor.

Muhammad (pbuhj taught Muslims to dedicate a supplication for Abraham and his family in every prayer of the daily five prayers. Also, it is worth mentioning that Muhammad named one of his children "Ibrahim" who died at his childhood.

"Say (O Muhammad): My Lord has guided me to a straight path, a correct (right) religion, the way and community of'Abraham, the upright way inclining towards ike truth and he was not an idolater (he didn't associate others with God)"

The Holy Qui-.an, V 161, Ch ft

it is believed that Abraham was buried in Hebron -Palestine. It is considered a sacred place for Jews, Christians and Muslims. The building complex that contains the cenotaph of Abraham is called "Al-Masjid Al-lbrahimi" (Abraham's Mosque)- Also called by nan Muslims "Tombs of the Patriarchs"

The building is primarily a large mosque {rectangular shape) with two square minarets. It also includes many rooms and a series of subterranean caves.

The central room of the building contains the cenotaphs of Abraham and Sarah. The southern room (Ohel Yitzhak in Hebrew) contains the cenotaphs of Isaac and Rebecca,

Cenotaph nf Abraham (pbuh)

Not« Muslims do not glorify tombs. According to I ilamic teachings the | struct ure of the tomb must not be raised above the ground level.

The northern room of the building contains the cenotaphs of Jacob and Leah. It is widely believed the remnants of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah were enshrined in the subterranean chambers below the building.

Muhammad and Moses: Muhammad (pbuh) praised highly the Prophet Moses and indicated that on the Day of Resurrection he will see Moses standing and holding the side of the Throne of God (Allah).

On another occasion when Muhammad (pbuh) came to Madinah and found that Jews fasted on the day of "Ashura" (which God saved the children of Israel from Pharaoh of Egypt), he asked Muslims to fast this day voluntarily because Moses fasted that day as an expression of thanks to God (The day of ' Ash u ra" is on the 10th of t he fi rst month of the lunar calendar).

HPT**

57

Approximately one third of the Holy Qur'an talks about Moses and the incidents and experiences the children of Israel went through. In addition, the Holy Quran mentions some of the prophets who were sent to the children of Israel such as Aaron, Zachariah and John.

The Holy Qur'an indicates that God spoke to Moses and describes Moses ds one of five messengers and prophets who had heavy missions (Ulu Al Azm) and God took from them a solemn covenant (V3, Chapter 33 Al-Ahzab}, The five messengers are Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad peace be upon all of them.

Moses died near or at the mount Nebo which overlooks the Dead Sea and the land of Palestine, A memorial was built on the mount which became an important tourist attraction in Jordan.

Muslims see many similarities between MoSeS and Muhammad. Both were prophets and messengers who brought a Divine Book that included the Law of God, Both lead their people and lived among them for a long period of time. Both married and had children,

Muhammad and Jesus:

According to authentic narrations Muhammad fpbuh) said;

"I am the nearest of all the people to the son of Mary and all the prophets are paternal brothers,and there has been no prophet between me and him (Le. Jesus)"

The Holy Qur'an describes Jesus as God's Word and glad tidings conveyed to Mary, His name is "The Messiah Jesus son of Mary".

God supported him with the Holy Spirit (Archangel Gabriel) and sent him as a messenger to the children of Israel to guide them to the straight path and to worship God "Allah:" his Lord and their Lord and the Lord of all beings, (V87, Chapter 2, V 45-49, Chapter 3 ,V171, Chapter 4).

Nazareth is a historic townm I ow^t Galilee.. Palestine. Mentioned in the Gospels as the home of Mary, It is closely associated with the childhood of Jesus Christ. According to Roman Catholic tradition, Annunciation took place at the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth,

Also, the Holy Qur'an describes Jesus as illustrious (memorable and prominent) in the world and the Hereafter, and one of the righteous and those brought near unto God.

The Holy Qur'an indicates that God taught Jesus the Scripture and wisdom, and the Torah and the Gospel He supported him with miracles of healing the blind, and the leper, and raising the dead by His leave and Will (Allah Exalted be He).

Photos from Bethlehem; The Church of the Nativity is one of the oldest operating ch urches in the world. It It bel leved by ma rvy C hrlstl am It ma rks t he bi rt hplace of Jesus the C hrist

101

Muslims believe that Jesus will return. Muhammad (pbuh) indicated that the Day of Resurrection will not take place until Jesus descends from the heavens.

*****

He will return before life ends on the earth in order to establish the Law of God. He will fight the false Messiah, and unite all believers in God (Allah Exalted be He}. He will be a just ruler and he will bring peace to the whole world. Muslims are required to be amongst the supporters of Jesus upon his return.

Photos from Damascus; Accord I nig to some narrations, Prophet Muhammad Ipbuh) Indicated that Jesus will descend In the eastern side of Damascus,

Universality of the "Message" conveyed by Muhammad: Muslims believe that Muhammad received the same Message that was given to Abraham., Moses, Jesus and other prophets but his mission was universal. He was entrusted to coirett people's beliefs, bring them back to the true faith and teach them good deeds.

"And We have not sent you but as a mercy to the worlds"

'Ike Holy Quran, V 1 07, Ch II I

Muhammad (pbuh) sent letters to the rulers and kings of neighbouring countries and superpowers such as Persia, Byzantine and Egypt calling them to accept Islam as "the Message of God" When Heraclius King of Byzantine received Muhammad's letter, he invited Abu-Sufyan [one of the main chiefs and tradesmen of Mecca who was by chance doing business in that area) to attend him. Heraclius asked Abu-Sufyan few questions and requested him to be honest.

«.i> YV

ieff*r of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to HtrocUus

■> original Arabic olphobf(i)

: Which social class of the society does Muhammad come from?

Abu 5ufyan ; He comes from a noble family in Mecca. Herad 1.45 : Did he ever betray, break 0 promise or lie? Abu-Sufyan : No.

Heraclius : How about his followers, are they increasing or decreasing? And have any of his followers quit because he was unpieased with Muhammad?

Abu-Sufyan : In fact, Muhammad's followers admired him and they were increasing in number. ■ Then what does Muhammad teach his followers?

Abu-Sufyan : Belief in One God and social justice.

Heraclius thought for a while then he said: If what you told me is true, then Muhammad will be able to inherit my kingdom-

Emperor Heradijs ruled lUs Roman Empire from 610 to 640 CE during that lime he conducted three military campaigns and defeated the Persian Empire and regained Syria, Palestine and Egypt In year 636CE Islam reached Palestine, Syria, Egypt and most of Mgrtriem Africa. In the year 642 CE Islam reached Persia, 1—1

Islam, a universal religion: Currently Islam is the second largest religion in the world after Christianity. A comprehensive demographic study of more than 200 countries finds that there are 1.57 billion Muslims of all ages living in the world today representing 23% of an estimated 2009 world population of 6.8 billion (Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life 2009),

Not all Muslims are Arabs: Arab Muslims constitute less than one fourth of the total number of Muslims in the world.

There is approximately 2.1 billion Christians in the world representing 33% of World's population and 1,1 billion non religious / atheist people in the world (16% of World s population). Judaism represents 0.22% of Worlds' population {approx 14 million people).

ENDNOTES

1 Abstract front the story of Mary from the Holy Quran, Verses 16-23 Chapter 19 "Mary"

And mention Mary in the Scripture, when site had withdrawn from her people to an eastern place as a seclusion frtim them. Ihtn We sent untoher Our spirit (Angel Gabriel) who appeared to her as a flawless human being.

She said:! seek refuge from you in God, Hie Beneficent One if at all you feat Him.

He said: lam "one other than a messengers}'your lord to grant \vu a pure hoy.

Site said: How shall I have a boy (son) and neither a human being has ever touched me nor have 1 been unchaste}

Ha saidi So (it will If). Your lord said: It is easy for Me and We will make him a Miraculous sign for all people and a Mercy from U\ ft is a ilecreed matter.

Soon she conceived him, and she hurried to a remote place but the birth pangs drove her unto tire trunk of the palm tree. Siie said: Oh,I wish i had died before this and had become a thing utterly forgotten!

According to the story mentioned in the Holy Qur'an, Mary brought her son to her own people who blamed her but Jesus (the newborn]' miraculously spoke and said: Verses 30-35, Chapter 19 Mary:

Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He (decreed) to give me the Scripture and make me a prophet and make me blessed wherever I may be. And He enjoined me to pray to him and give alms as long as I am alive and to be virtuous towards my mother, ffc didn't make me insolent or wretched. May all peace be upon me the day! was ham and the day! will die and the day! sSuill he raised alive.

That is jesus son of Mary, it is the truth concerning what they doubt. It is not for God to take any son (Exalted Be He). When He decrees a matter, He but says to it : Be and so it is.

Chapter S

Adding Value to People's Lives

10/

Muhammad encouraged people to love each other:

\Muhammad [pbuh) said: "I swear by God that you will \ not be true believers in Him unless you love each other. I will tell you something if you do it you will love each other. Greet each other frequently and make It a common habit.

And he said: "No one will become a good believer unless he wishes for his brethrens what he likes for himself"

Also said: "Whoever helps a believer overcome a difficulty, God will help him overcome a difficulty at the Day of Judgment, and God will always help an individual as long as he/she is helping others"

MuhaimrtacKpouKi

Greeting people isa message of peace: Muhammad {pbuh) said: "Don't ever underestimate any kind act, even if you meet others with a bright (smiling) face rtJ . And he said: "The o n e w h o g reets ot hers fi rst is closer to God tha n the others" J . On another occasion he said to someone who asked him about a good way to deal with people: "Offer people food and greet whom you know and whom you don't know" 4

| Muhammad used to greet people warmly: According

to authentic narrations, Muhammad used to meet people with a bright face and when he shook hands with others, he never released his hand before the other person.

Muhammad had a high sense of humour: He was a very cheerful and optimistic person. People who dealt with him described him as a likable person and at the same time he was venerated and respected.

On several occasions he joked with his friends, his wife, old people and children {including his own children and grandchildren}. At Muhammad's time, racing (as running} was a common activity to have fun. It was narrated that Muhammad (pbuh) was seen several times racing with his wife, his children and other children.

High sense of humour with an old woman: It was narrated that an old woman asked him to pray for her so that she would enter God's paradise. Muhammad (pbuh) replied in a non serious way; "There are no old women in God's Paradise" She misunderstood what he said and got confused. But soon he elaborated: "You

109

will be young when you enter the Paradise (and all people will be}. @

High sense of humour with his friends: One time, Muhammad (pbuh) saw a sore-eyed person named Suhayb (who was a Roman Muslim), looking miserable and

©was eating a ripe date. Muhammad fpbuh} wanted to joke with him in order to cheer him up so he said to him: "How come you eat the date and your left eye is sore?" Suhayb realised that Muhammad was joking with him so he replied: "Don't worry I am eating it on the right side of my mouth (the side where the right eye was sound}.

Anas Bin Malek narrated that a man came to — Muhammad and asked him to give him a ride ( f 9 .\ on a camel. Muhammad (pbuh} said: I will \^^J give you a ride on the child of the she camel. The man replied: What am I going to do with the camel's child? Then Muhammad said: Are not all camels the children of she camels? 5

Muhammad cared for and loved children: Muhammad paid attention to children. He used to greet them and play with them. One time Muhammad (pbuh} saw a little boy who was sad because his little bird died. Although Muhammad (pbuh) was heading elsewhere, he spent some time with the little boy to please

him and relieve his sadness. 6

Muhammad (pbuh) used to ask parents to express their love to their children by kissing and hugging them and being fair with □II their children.

Muhammad {pbuh) described a father who never kissed his child as lacking mercy in his heart.

'1

Muhammad loved his neighbours; Muhammad had a Jewish neighbour who did not accept Islam and was not ^kind to him. When the Jewish neighbour became sick, Muhammad (pbuh) visited him at his home, which softened his W WL neighbours heart. Also, Muhammad

Ejp^^^ (pbuh) visited a Jewish boy at his home when he became sick because the boy had worked for some time as a helper or a servant for Muhammad [pbuh}.

Muhammad emphasised kindness to neighbours: Muhammad (pbuh) told his companions that Archangel Gabriel emphasized on being good to neighbours to the extent that Muhammad (pbuh) thought that a person would be able to inherit from his/ her neighbours, Muhammad (pbuh) stated that whoever believes in God

111

and the Day of Judgment should be kind . ' * to hi s / her neigh bou rs. On o n e occa sion O— s he said to a companion called "Abu-Thar": "If you cook soup, cook it with more water (i.e. increase its quantity) so that it becomes enough to give some to your neighbours*.

Muhammad abolished bad social manners: He stated on several occasions "the people of good morals are the closest to him on the Day of Judgment and will be most beloved by him". Also he stated;

"Don't hate each other and don't envy each other and be brothers". 7

"A believer in God does not curse or swear or use bad language" 8

No derision or defamation: Muhammad (pbuh) recited the following verses from the Holy Qur'an (considered by Muslims as God's Woids not Muhammad's own words).

"O believers, don't disdain (or ridicule or deride) each other neither men deride men nor women deride ii'omen, the latter could be better than (he former.

''Don't defame one another and don't insult one another and whoever does so and does not repent to Allah he or she is indeed a wrongdoer"

The Hilly Qur'an, V II,Ch 49

No ill opinion, evil suspicion, spying and backbiti ng:

"O believers,

avoid much suspicion, for some suspicion is a grave (serious) sin and don't spy on one another, nor backbite

against one another. Would any ofyvu like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it. So fear Allah (God), He is the Most Forgiving the Most MercifuL"

TliflkrfyUuTiin.V liCh-W

Don't pass wrong news:

"O believers,

if a transgressor brings you some news (that may require taking action then verify it carefully biforeyou believe him or her and act upon it, so you don't harm people in ignorance and then become regretful for what you have done".

"Die Holy Quran, V 6-7, Ch 49

Don't cheat and be honest: Trading, buying and selling should be based on ethics and should comply with noble values such as honesty, perfection, transparency and cooperation. Muhammad (pbuh) said:

"Whoever cheats is not one amongst us" (i.e. among The righteous believers}.

Narrated by Muslim, Abu Dawood

Lying or breaking a promise is hypocrisy:

Muhammad (pbuh) said:

"Whoever has the following four [characteristics) will be a hypocrite and whoever has one of them will have one characteristic of hypocrisy until he gives it up:

0 Whenever he is entrusted, he betrays; © Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie; © Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves treacherous; © Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a very imprudent, evil and insulting manner,"

J

Muhammad condemned extremism: He called for a balanced way of life, balanced views and rational thinking. It is narrated that three people came to his house to ask about his style of worship, Muhammad (pbuh) wasn't at home and his wife spoke with them .They found his level of worship to be less than what they expected to be practiced by a Prophet.

According to their understanding, religious way of life requires focusing on spiritualities arid ignoring some of the body needs or depriving it it from natural desires.

They thought that they need to stay single and must not get married. Also, a person needs to fast every day and perform extra prayers late at nightbesidesthedailyprayers{i,e,permanent

change in eating habits and life style).

When Muhammad (pbuh) knew what they said, he was upset but he stated that he usually performed extra prayers at night and rested like other people. In addition to the annual fasting in ths month of Ramadan he fasted for some time and he did not fast for other times.

- Finally, he got married and did not like people to stay single, He said:

"This is my Sunnah (the way of life that God likes}. Whoever does not accept it, he / she is not one of us".

Perfect balance in satisfying body and soul needs: On several occasions, Muhammad (pbuh) called for maintaining the right balance between materialism and spiritualism. Body and soul's needs must be satisfied in moderation and in lawful ways.

He encouraged people to take religion as a change to a better and easier way of life not to a harder and stricter way of life.

Also, he encouraged people to look after their bodies and eat in moderation.

Muhammad does not like hardship: It is narrated that whenever Muhammad (pbuh] had to decide on a matter or an issue where more than one option or alternative was given, he always avoided hardship and chose less complicated ones provided that it fullfilled the required goals and did not involve unlawful things.

Adding value through sport:

Muhammad [pbuh) used to encourage his companions to maintain healthy bodies and learn different types of sports such as swimming, archery, horse riding and horse racing (horsemanship).

In addition he participated in several running competitions with his companions, a sport that brings happiness and excitement. It is narrated that Muhammad (pbuh) used to do running races with his

wife Aisha. She won the race once and he won the race on another occasion. This activity reflects the mutual love, harmony and fun Muhammad (pbuh) had with his wife.

Muhammad (pbuh) allocated an area to be a racing field in the western side of the Nabawi Mosque in Mad in ah. Horse racing used to be conducted in the

same field as well, A mosque was built next to the racing field and it was called the Sabaq Mosque (i.e. the mosque of the racing field}.

Adding value through knowledge:

Muhammad (pbuh) brought a Message of light and guidance that became the source for civilization and scientific advancement for many centuries. It commenced from a divine revelation that had begun with the word "Read" Within decades, it revolutionized knowledge and all types of sciences in Arabia and the whole world-

The words: read,, think, learn, observe, explore, understand, ponder, contemplate; see and reflect are frequently mentioned in the Holy Quran,

Indeed, in the cr&ltion of the heavens and the earth and in the alteration of the night and the daylight are signs (of God's creative power} far those of understanding and discretion. The ones who remember Allah (the Lord of all beings) with reverence while standing and

while fitting and while lying on their fides. And who reflect on the creation of the heavens

and the earth, ami say: Our Lord! You have not created all this in vain t exalted are You, then protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

TiiL-Hni;, (j-.ii .ir. vi>«uy),(.-i> .3

l

1/

And in the earth, there are wondrous (incredible) signs (indicating the presence of God) and in yourselves (there are similar signs), can you not then see?

Hie 1 Inly Our an V2<U ICh 5 1

Muhammad (pbuh) added valueto peoples'lives by encouraging them to I ea rn a n d see k u sef u I knowledg e. He urged his companions to utilize knowledge for the wellbeing of humanityand nottocause mischief on the earth, He linked that to God s pleasure when he said:

"That who follows a way for acquiring knowledge, God facilitates a way for him to Paradise" Narrated by Ti rrnittii

For many centuries, Muslim scientists were the frontiers in pure and applied sciences. The language of Qur an "Arabic" became the language of sciences that were taught in full-fledged universities granting degrees in chemistry, mathematics, calculus, medicine, astronomy, geography, engineering, art and literature.

Some researchers acknowledge the truth that the western civilization relied primarily on the Islamic civilization. Without it, the western civilization would need at least 500 years to accomplish what it has already achieved.

Ta ble 2: Contri butions of famous M usl i m Scient ists

119

Avkenna

Father of

Modem

Medicine

Abu All Al-Hussein Ibn Sina is one of the

most eminent Muslim scholars in medicine and one of the most famous Muslim scientists in the world. He was a polymath and the author of almost 200 books on science, religion and philosophy.

Avicenna's two most important works are: Shifa (The Book of Healing) which is a philosophical encyclopedia based on Aristotelian tradition and Al Qanun Fi-Tibb (The Canon of Medicine),

The Canon is a 14-volume book classifies and describes diseases, and outlines their assumed causes. It was translated to different languages and was a standard medical text in Europe for seven centuries (until early 18"' century).

Al Jazari

1136-120SCE

Abul-lz Bin Is mat I Al-Jazarl. He is best known for writing the "Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices" where he described fifty mechanical devices along with instructions on how to construct them.

Al-Jazari's is also known as the inventor of the largest astronomical "castle clock" which is considered to be the first programmable analog Computer.

According to Donald Routledge Hill, Al-Jazari described the most sophisticated candle clocks, He also invented the water clock and the crank shaft that transforms rotary motion into linear motion.

LATIN FIGURES:

Q, ii. m. lv, v. vi vii, vm, rx,x)

ARABIC NUMBERS:

Adding value to trade and commerce:

Muhammad (pbuh) encouraged trade and commerce based on noble Islamic values that denounce cheating, unethical dealings, deception, fraud, monopoly and exploitation,

Muhammad [pbuh} indicated;

God bestows His mercy on a person who is tolerant when he buys, tolerant when he sells and tolerant when he asks fo r h i 5 rig hts. (Apptjcabte for males ond females ■ fiukhon, 2076/} 6)

Soon after he arrived in Madinahj Muhammad instructed his companions to buy a piece of land and dedicate it for free trade. People used to buy and sell in it without paying any fees or custom charges. They called it Manakha.

Manakha means, the place where camels are seated on the ground in order to onload goods carried on their backs (for trade purposes).

Adding value through etiquette: Muhammad (pbuh) cared for behavioral etiquette. He taught his companions that etiquette is part of his example and way of life (Sunnah). In addition, many verses in the Holy Qur an urge on tenderness and good manners, Muhammad (pbuh) indicated that Angels get upset by what upsets human beings, (e.g. loud voices, bad smells, etc)

The following points summarize some of the Islamic behavioral etiquettes:

• Do not talk loudly and do not walk arrogantly.

• Do not stay long when visiting a sick person, give him or her time to rest.

• One should smell good when he/she comes to the mosque,

• Those who ate garlic or onion should not come to the mosque, so as not to disturb the others by any unfavorable smell or act (e.g. burping).

• Be helpful and give space to others in crowded and congregation areas where finding a free space is difficult.

123

Call others with the names and nicknames they like.

Put your hand on your mouth when yawning and bless others when they sneeze.

When talking to others, one should use the best and the most acceptable words to them so as they like it. The good word is alms (charity) in Islam.

Talk kindly to your parents and don't shout at their faces, never say a bad word even"uff or fie" (the smallest negative word in Arabic).

Children should always knock on the door and seek permission to enter, before going into their parents' room at certain times during the day.

If you a re se rvi n g water to ot he rs„ yo u a re the la st one to drink (a preferred etiquette].

If you are invited for a dinner or a banquet, eat from the closer pots to you and don't annoy the others.

Don't breath in a cup of water while drinking from it.

Etiquette with Women

tower your gaze, don't stare at women or at passing

people.

Muhammad (pbuh) was seen bending his knees for his wife Safiyatohelp her climb first on the camel by stepping on his thigh.

(Narrated by Anas bin Malek - Bukhari - 9/20)

Purification and cleanliness:

Cleanliness and personal hygiene are essential elements in the IslamEc faith. Verse 222, Chapter 2 in the Holy Qur'an states that God loves those who purify themselves.

"...Truly, Allah loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and hves those who purify themselves (physically and spiritually)".

The Hah Our'ui, V 222. Ch 1

"And your clothing purify!'

The H(»lyQui'itn,V4,Cti74

Performing ablution before praying is an essential requirement for prayers. It includes washing the hands, face, forearms up to the elbows, wiping the head and washing the feet

In addition, performing "GhusuI" (washing the whole body! on a regular basis is strongly

recommended and is considered as part of Muhammad's Sunnah {teachings and way of life). However, Ghusu! is a must for purity on certain occasions (e.g. after marital contact and menstruation).

125

Muhammad (pbuh) emphasized cleanliness and purification in all aspects of life. He asked his companions to d ea n th e ir homes a nd su rro u nd i ngs regu I a r I y. H e ta ug ht them that removing harm or garbage from the road is a rewardable charity act.

Also, M u h a m ma d { pbuh) u rged his com pa n ions to ma i nta i n high personal hygiene and cleanliness. His sayings in this context indicate the following:

■ Dress in clean and tidy clothes but do not be prodigal • Use perfumes (Teeb) to smell good

■ Trim your nails, remove pubk and armpit hair

■ Wash hands before and after eating. Do not touch food after waking up until hands are washed.

Miswak and dental care. Clean mouth and good breath during the whole day:

According to authentic narrations Muhammad (pbuh) said:

"If it did not trouble you, I would ask you to brush your teeth with miswak before each prayer.' (five times a day)

(Narrated by Bykfieri & Muslim) What is miswak ?

Miswak is a common name for Salvador* persica (tooth brush tree, also known as the Arak tree). It is popularly used in Saudi Arabia. Miswak wicks clean between the teeth and do not break under pressure, rather they are flexible and strong.

The chemical analysis of Miswak shows that it contains many useful mineralsandelementssuchasfliioridesin largeamounts, silica, vitamin C and small quantities of chlorides, tannins, saponins, flavenoids and sterols.

According to analytical research, Miswak helps fight plaques, recession and bleeding of gums. The Miswak stick releases fresh sap and silica (hard glossy materia I) which acts as an abrasive material to remove stains. Miswak can dean teeth gently and effectively, whitens the teeth without harming enamel or gum.

The chloride content helps remove the plaque and tartar stains and vitamin C contributes to the healing and repair of the tissues. It is believed that Miswak extract relieves head ache, common cold, nausea, tensions, and dizziness,

127

Muhammad (pbuh) used to respect others'views:

Whenever he gave instructions to his followers that were understood or perceived in two different ways, he used to accept both ways provided that both of them achieve the required goal in a lawful manner.

In the battle of "That AI-SaEas.se I",the Muslim Commander Amr Bin Al-Aass was criticised for leading a. prayer without performing ghusul and ablution (he was in a state of spiritual impurity). Muhammad (pbuh) listened to his justification and accepted it. Amr told Muhammad (pbuh) that it was cold that night and if he showered his body, he could fall sick and could not lead his group.

Anas Bin Malik said that he served Muhammad (pbuh) for ten years and he was never asked by Muhammad "why did you do this and why didn't you do that".

Muhammad encouraged consultancy and democracy (Shura): Muhammad (pbuh) always consulted his companions and even his wife. He advised his followers to be objective and use rational thinking. He empowered them and involved them in the decision making process,

When the Meccan chiefs, along with other Arab tribes, planned to attack Madinah, a Persian Muslim put forward a p ro posa I to di g a tre nc h on the n orth e rn side of Madinah.

Although that was a foreign concept never applied before in Arabia and it was put forward by an ordinary person, Muhammad, (pbuh) considered it seriously and it was approved by the majority of Muslims. They dug a trench S.S km long x 4.6 m wide.

On another occasion, (battle of Badr) a commoner (an ordinary person) told Muhammad- "O Prophet, if your choice to camp in this area is not inspired by a revelation, can I suggest we move to another area?" The person put forward the reasons for his suggestion and after consultation^ Muhammad [pbuh) welcomed the proposal likewise the majority of Muslims; they moved to the other area.

The word Moltamittad In Arabic being designed in an artistic way Courtesy oiAftist Fartd Al-Ali.

U9

Respect people of other faiths: Muhammad (pbuh) enco u ra ged h is compa n ion s to be fr iend ly a nd tra ns pa rent with people of other faiths while maintaining an assertive personality and clear understanding about their Islamic faith.

Muhammad (pbuh) demonstrated how highly he respected people regardless of their faith in several occasions. It is narrated that he stood up showing respect for a funeral carrying a coffin of a Jewish man that passed him and his companions. Muhammad answered a companion who wondered why Muhammad (pbuh) stood up for the carried body: J 'He is a human being" (regardless of his race, faith and social class).

Interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistance with people of other faiths: Interfaith dialogue can be defined as a two way communication

or discussion

frantf HUl of Bosnia Dr Mustafa Cans and Bishop Keuin Manning. Catholic flsbcase- ol Paioimtta S,<yHiiay Auswaiia

between people of different religious faiths and traditions in order to reach positive outcomes such as moving from suspicion and confusion to understanding and awareness or from hostility to friendliness.

In the year &32 CE, Muhammad (pbuh) received and hosted at his mosque in the city of "Madinah" a Christian delegation who came from Najran [in Yemen) to learn about Islam and discuss the differences between Islam and Christianity.

Muhammad (pbuh) set guidelines and etiquettes for dialogue and debate with others based on the Quranic teachings which emphasize respect, wisdom, mutual understanding and kindness. He recited the following verses from the Holy Qur an:

"Call (invite people) to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and with "good admonition" and reason

(debate) with them in the best manner. Your Lord Knows best who strayed from His Path and who received (able to receive) guidance."

The Hilly Qur an. V 125, Ch 16

"And do not debate with the People of the Book except with the best manner unless those of them who were aggressors (unjust or exceeded just limits). Say (to them)' we heheve in what has been revealed to us and what has been revealed to you-, our God and your God is One, and to Him we are submitting."

Pie HnJyQui'im, V ^ Ch W

Omar Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem:

In the old city of Jerusalem, a great example of religious tolerance has been existing for many centuries. It started when the second Muslim ruler of the Islamic state Caliph Omar Bin Al-Khattab took over Jerusalem (638 CE] peacefully without shedding a drop of blood.

Omar was invited by the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Sophronius, to pray in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The Church is also known as the Church of the Resurrection

(Anastasis to Eastern Orthodox Christians). It is the holiest Christian site in the world. It encompasses Calvary where the Christians believe Jesjs was crucified, and the tomb (sepulcher) where he was buried. It has been an important pilgrimage destination since the 4th century, C.E.

I n a re m a r ka bl e g est u re, 0 m ar refused to pray i n the Chu rch, saying: "If I had prayed in the church ft would have been taken by Muslims as a mosque or a worship place'!

Omar instead prayed a few yards outside the church. His act confirmed the peaceful coexistence between Islam and other religions. It confirmed freedom of worship for non Muslims under the Islamic state.

A mosque was built on that site where Omar prayed to commemorate this historical event (later, it was called Omar Mosque).

Caliph Omar entrusted the custody of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, to Ubadah Ibn AI-Sam it, a companion of prophet Muhammad (pbuh) who became the first Muslim judge of Jerusalem. Ubadah died in the year653CE and was buried in the "Gate of

Mercy'' cemetery at the southern corner of the wall enclosing the Noble Sanctuary. The Sanctuary includes the Dome of the Rock and Aqsa Mosque.

Tomb of Ubadah ibn Ai-Samit in Jerusalem

The Covenant of Omar:

Omar granted the people of Jerusalem a covenant of peace and protection which came to be known the "Covenant of Omar*'. It has been mounted at the door of the mosque along the centuries and until now.

»-»— *

The Covenant of Omar

in the Name of (God) Allah, (he Most Merciful, the Most Compmsionate

This is an assurance of peace and protection given by the servant of Allah Omar to the people of ilia'(Jerusalem), He gave them an assurance of protection for their lives, property, churches as well as the sick and healthy and all its religious community.

Their churches shall not be occupied, demolished

nor taken away wholly or in part. They shall neither he coerced in their religion nor shall any of them be injured, The people of ilia shall pay tax (Jizia) as inhabitants of cities do {and as Muslims do pay a similar tax "zakat").

ENDNOTES

1 Riyadh Al-Salihin (183/3), {245/2), Sahih Al-Bukhari (13)

2 Riyadh Al-Salihin (121/5)

3 Riyadh Al-Sa I ihin (858/2)

4 Sahih Al-Bukhari (11)

5 Sahih Al Albani, Abu Dawood, Ernam Ahmed and Trirnithi

6 Riyadh Al-Salihin (862/1), Sukhari (593/10)

7 Riyadh AI-SaliNn (1591 /I), Sahih Al-Bukhari (6065) S Riyadh Al-Salihin (1734/1) (1738/3)

Chapters 137

Muhammad Gave Women Their Rights

Before the advent of Islam, women had no civil rights. Arabs used to give preference to male babies over female ones to the extent that many fathers used to bury their female babies or children alive.

No gender discnmirvation: Muhammad (pbuh)condemned discrimination between male and female children and taught his companions to love their children and raise them properly regardless of their sex. In fact, he emphasised giving more care and attention to female children until they grow up and get married, Muhammad (pbuh) said:

"Women are the twin halves of men." 1

Women inherit like mer>: Before lslam r women had no f right to inherit. Muhammad successfully changed 1 this custom. Females gained the right to inherit M I like males. However, Muhammad (pbuh) did not create the Islamic inheritance system, but he conveyed God's Words (preserved in the Holy Qur'an) which stipulate the portions for f\ each individual (male and female) eligible // to inherit,

The word "Muhammad" in Arabic calligrphy being designed in an artistic and iym met rkal way The aaua I word looks I Ike thi s ^ . Letters M and H Mi ich form the first half of the word "Muhammad' are symmetrical with Isrters M jn d D (which form Uio second half of ihc '(Yurd "Muhammad' In Arabic

Women have a unique identity: A wife is not considered part of her husband's belongings. She is a free person who has a unique identity. When a woman gets married, she does not need to change her surname. Her identity is preserved and her wealth and property are protected by the Islamic law. When her husband passes away she is considered as one of the heirs and not a property that is inherited by male heirs as it had been before Islam. (Before Is women were treated as chattel).

A woman is not a sex tool: Prostitution and adultery are strictly forbidden in Islam. Muhammad fpbuh) indicated: When a person commits fornication or adultery then he/ she is not in a state oPEaman" (faithfulness) (i.e.faith in God has not yiet established strongly in his/her heart, therefore the person does not feel guilty or fear God when fornication Is committed). God

revealed in the Holy Qur an:

"And don't approach (come near unto)fornication (unlawful premarital or extramarital sex) t La! li is an abomination and an evil way".

The Ho!y Quran, V 3Z CI 17

In Islam, wearing headscarf and modest clothing is an obligation on adult women. In addition, Islamic teachings forbid women from using their bodies or femininity for public leisure and sexual temptation-Businesses, commercials and advertisements that rely on exposing women bodies for temptation and sexual attraction are not allowed in Islam.

Islamic teachings block out the means that could lead to sexual harassment, sexual assault, rape crimes,, sexual diseases, and other abominations such as nudity and pornography.

■■hilHr

Get married!

Muhammad (pbuh) encouraged people to get married and establish a family life. He Taught his followers noble Islamic values which ban illegal sexual relations other than a normal marital relationship between a man and a woman,

A young man asked Muhammad {pbuh) to give him permission to fornicate {have non-marital sex with a girlfriend or a prostitute), Muhammad replied: "Do you accept this for your mother?". The man answered: "No", Muhammad (pbuh) said: I "Likewise people don't like it for their V J mothers".

Then he asked the young man the same question three more times: "Do you like it for your daughter, sister, aunt?" Every time the man replied no and Muhammad (pbuh) repeated the same statement: "Likewise, people don't like it for their daughters, sisters and aunts"

Then Muhammad (pbuh) put his hand on the mans heart and supplicated to God:"Oh my Lord: forgive his sin, purify his heart and grant him chastity".

Muhammad empowered women:

Within his endeavours to empower women's role in the society, Muhammad (pbuh) allocated certain days every week for women education.

He urged them to participate in Islamic events, feasts and prayers. Even housemaids could meet Muhammad (pbuh), talk to him and seek for his help or advice.

He also asked women to do a formal pledge (as men did} since they were responsible to the Islamic law.

Women play a crucial role in society as they nurture and raise the next generation who will form the nation. Muslim women were empowered to take an active role in the society without overlapping men's role.

Although priority was always given to the task of raising children and caring for their wellbeing, women used to work and participate in the social and political life.

Muhammad encouraged caring for girls/daughters:

Muhammad (pbuh) emphasised on several occasions the good treatment of females and he described them as delicate and "as fragile as glass". He told his companions that whoever raises his daughters properly and fears God in caring for them and guiding them to faith, he will gain Paradise.

Muhammad encouraged full respect of mothers: A man asked Muhammad (pbuh]; "Who would deserve my closest support and companionship? Muhammad re plied: "Your mother'! Then the man asked Muhammad {pbuh} who will be after her? Muhammad (pbuh) replied:"Your mother '

The man asked the same question again and Muhammad fpbuh} replied for the third time; "Your mother" Then out of curiosity the man asked the same question for the fourth time (he realised that Muhammad wanted to emphasise the best treatment to mothers). Then Muhammad (pbuh) said to him: "Your father" (i.e. your father deserves your closest support and accompany after your mother] 2 .

Scholars comment on the above story that mothers can not escape three main sufferings'" (1) pregnancy, (2) labor and delivery, (3) and finally breastfeeding and weaning.

Muhammad encouraged good treatment of wives : He stated that if a man disliked one of a woman's traits he will be pleased with another. And he said:

The believers who show the most perfect faith are those who have the best character; and the best of the believers are those who are best to their wives.

This promotes love, harmony and mutual understanding.

On the other hand Muhammad (pbuh) disliked divorce; he pointed out;

"Among all the permitted acts, divorce is the most hateful to God"

Should divorce become unavoidable, separation should be on good terms and with kindness K

Muhammad loved his wife: Few years after his first wife Khadijah passed away, Muhammad got married to Aisha

the daughter of his closest friend Abu-Bakir. Despite his loyalty to his late wife, he loved Aisha and was honest to her. He was asked once by Amr bin Al-Aass (a companion): "Who is the most beloved person to you?". Muhammad (pbuh) replied without hesitation: Aisha,

Confirm your love to your wife: Aisha narrated that Muhammad (pbuh) described his love for her like a knot firmly tied in a rope. Aisha used to ask Muhammad from time to time "how is the knot" and Muhammad (pbuh) used to confirm his love to her. He said: "the knot is still tied as firmly as it used to be"

Muhammad (pbuh) used toask Aisha to send a serving of food to the friends of his late wife Khadijah every time Aisha cooked a sheep or an ewe.

Muhammad mentioned to Aisha that no one was better than Khadijah at her time, she believed him when he first received God's revelation but many people did not (some of his uncles and relatives did not believe him}. She consoled him with her money and supported him without hesitation.

Despite the fact that some people may view Muhammad's comments about his late wife Khadijah as it was triggering jealousy in his current wife Aisha, he was a fair and a loyal husband to his wives.

Muhammad demonstrated exemplar loyalty to his late wife: According to some narrations, when Muhammad (pbuh) returned to Mecca in the year 630 CE r he asked his companions to pitch his tent near the grave of Khadijah. That was an expression of love and loyalty to her.

Tfti$ is ttte wwtf "Muhammad" in Awbic being designed if* a fowtwe style which looks like a flower. Courtesy of Plastic Artist Fa/id Al-Ali.

145

Muhammad and Polygamy

Muhammad did not introduce polygamy: In fact polygamy existed before Islam without any limit in number. It was very common for a man to have more than one woman either as wives or as concubines or slaves*.

It is known that Prophet Abraham was married to Sara the mother of Isaac and Hager the mother of Ishmael, Also, it is narrated that Jacob had four women, two wives and two concubines 5 (Genesis 32:23-24),

Muhammad lived most of his life married to one woman: He was married to Khadijah for almost 25 years and he was a father for 4 girls and 2 boys. Both of his sons died in their childhood.

After Khadijah passed away he married a poor old widow called "Sawdah" Her husband passed away after they returned from Abyssinia, the country which Muhammad (pbuh} sent some of his companions to seek refuge,

His marriage to Sawdah was a form of support for her. Muhammad (pbuh) was almost 50 years old when he married Sawdah who was older than him.

Muhammad married the daughter of his closest companion Abu-Bakir : Few years later, Muhammad (pbuh) married Aisha, the daughter of his closest friend and most supportive companion Abu-Bakir. The marriage was an honour for Abu-Bakir and Aisha.

Muhammad married the daughter of his second closest companion Omar: Two yea re later, Hafsa the daughter of his second closest companion Omar, lost her husband in the battle of Uhud and became a widow. Omar preferred that his daughter gets married to one of his trusted

C__ friends but no one proposed to her. Then

¥ \ Muhammad (pbuh) took the initiative \ arid proposed to her. The marriage

I was an honour and support for Omar ^■""■"J and his daughter Hafsa.

Muhammad married a Muslim widow who was the daughter of his enemy: Rarnlah was known by the nick name "Um Habibah". She was the daughter of the top man in Mecca (Abu-Sufyan). Although Abu-Sufyan did not believe Muhammad and fought him for 20 years, his daughter embraced Islam.

She was one of the early Muslims who migrated to Abyssinia with her husband and lived there for almost 15 years.

who

id >V

Her husband converted to Christianity and passed away there. She was left alone in Abyssinia, so Muhammad (pbuh) proposed to Um Habibah and she accepted and got married to him. Surprisingly, one year later, her father embraced Islam.

Muhammad married Safiyya, a Woman from a i Jew is h tri be: Ba n i Al- Mad h ir wa s o n e of the J e wish tribes who betrayed Muhammad (pbuh) and worked against him. After Muhammad (pbuh) besieged them in their city Khaybar, they f*~*J^^ surrendered. ^^^^

Safiyya the daughter of their leader was amongst those who were captured, Muhammad (pbuh) released her and proposed marriage to her. Safiyya accepted and they were married,

Muhammad (pbuh) proved to all people that he had nothing against the Jewish community but aggressors had to be stopped regardless of their race or faith.

On several occasions and even after Muhammad (pbuh) passed away, Safiyya described him as a loving and a fair husband.

Mariya the copt:

In the same year, Muhammad {pbuh) sent a messenger to the ruler of Egypt who was Christian, calling him to accept the message of Islam.

The ruler of Egypt replied with a polite apology and sent Muhammad some gifts as well as a physician and a servant or concubine called Mariya (Mary). Muhammad (pbuh) accepted the Egyptian ruler's gifts. He married Mariya and later on she gave birth to a baby boy named Ibrahim, Ibrahim died when he was a little boy and Muhammad tpbuh) was very sad about losing him*.

Muhammad conveyed God's Command to control polygamy: Islam didn't forbid polygamy but it restricted and regulated it. In Islam, it Is not compulsory to marry more than one wife but it is permissible for genuine reasons.

A man can marry a second wife if he can demonstrate full respect, justice and impartiality to his wives. Verse 3 r Chapter 4 in the Holy Qur'an indicates dearly that a man cannot marry more than one woman if he cannot treat them rightly and impartially,

Also, the verse puts a limit of four wives only for unbiased and fair husbands.

Before this revelation, men used to have scores of wives with no limits or conditions.

Limits on Prophet Muhammad: Prophet Muhammad

(pbuh) was married to more than 4 wives before this

revelation. Being wives of the ''Messenger of God" was a

great honour to them besides their being regarded as the

mothers of believers. God revealed in

the Holy Qur'an that Muhammad's wives SjCS

were lawful to him. However, no more

women could be married to Prophet — ■ ,.

Muhammad (pbuh) even if he divorced ^ njJ J J

Limits on prophet Muhammad's wives: Muslims were not allowed to marry any of the wives of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) after he passed away because they were like their mothers.

In the Holy Qur'an, God described the wives of the Prophet as being unlike other women (they should be seen by other Muslims as exemplary and as the mothers of believers}.

If any of the Prophet's wives committed a manifestly sinful deed, the punishment would be doubled for her. But if any of the Prophet's wives devoutly obeyed God and His Messenger and performed righteous deeds, she would receive double rewards.

Muhammad's Wives had freedom of choke: God asked Muhammad (as indicated in the Holy Qur'an, chapter 33 verses 28,29) to give his wives two options, either be released {i.e. divorced) if any of them desired the world's life and its adornment, or stay married to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and devote their lives fully for the cause of Islam.

■

All of them chose the second option and all of them stayed married to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). After Muhammad (pbuh) passed away, none of them remarried.

151

ENDNOTES

1 Narrated by Tirmithi. According iq other narrations prophet Muhammad (pbuh) indicated that whoever had one or two or three daughters and he properly looked after them (until they become Independent) he would gee Into God's Paradise.

2 The Qur'an emphasised in many verses that a person must be goad to both parents (e.g. Chapter 1 1, Verse 23).

3 Sahih Abu Dawood. See also The Holy Qur an (Chapter 2, V 229)

4 Regarding polygamy in other religions, earlier, there were no restrictions even in Hindu religion. It was only in 1954, when the Hindu Marriage Act. was passed that it became illegal for a Hindu to have more than one wife. At present, it is the Indian law that restricts a Hindu man from having more than one wife and not the Hindu scriptures,

5 For more details about Jacob family, see Genesis 32:23-24.

6 Muhammad (pbuh) was very sad for the loss of his son to the extent that he cried in front of his companions. Being a father, he couldn't hold his tears. Muhammad told his companions that he would say only what pleases God and a believer should accept God's fate,

7 Please see the Holy Qur'an, Verses 50,51,S2, Chapter 33, regarding the wives of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

t t

r

,1

Chapter? 153

Freedom, Justice & Protection

"No compulsion" is an essential rule in Islam: Muhammad proclaimed himself as a Messenger of God, He received a Divine Message to humanity and struggled to convey it to all people but he did not fotce any one to accept it. He recited the Holy Qur'an which confirms the freedom of belief and freedom choice for all people,

"And hud your Lord Willed, all people in the earth would have believed (all of them) together. So will you (Muhammad) compel or fortepeople until they become believers?" "the Hal? qur'an. v 99, ch 10

There is no compulsion in religion, truth (the right path) has become distinct from error (wrong path), ami whoever

mjuctf evil and believes in God has grasped the mosl trustworthy hand-hold that never breaks. And God is All-Hearer All-Knowvr. Tie HolyOur'an, V i56, Ch 2

Morality & equality of all races: In Islam, all people are considered equal under larw by reason of their being members of the human race. Piety and excellence of moral character are to be the only criteria for individual superiority in the eyes of God, Muhammad fpbuh) put it in these words:

"Your Lord is One. All humankind are from Adam and Adam was created from djst. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab except by piety (piety motivates good deeds)" 1

Muhammad encouraged freeing slaves and introduced Islamic regulations to eliminate slavery:

Slavery existed before Muhammad's time. In fact, it was part of many social systems in the world. Slaves were considered as assets and part of people's wealth. Since Islam protects peoples' wealth and property, slavery was gradually abandoned.

Repentance from violations of some Islamic rules required releasing slaves or (buying a slave from someone and freeing him or her). As well, abusing or punishing slaves with out a just reason required releasing them for repenting of such a sin 2 . This had continued until slavery was fully abolished.

Muhammad (pbuh) encouraged believers to release slaves for the sake of God. On one occasion, Muhammad (pbuh) saw a person called "Abu Mas'ud Al-Badri" hitting and lashing his slave. Muhammad (pbuh) said to him firmly:

155

"You should know that God is more able and has more power above you than your ability or power above this slave". Abu Mas'ud cooled down and said to Muhammad (pbuh) in an apologetic language: "I Will release him for the sake of God" Muhammad (pbuh) said to him: "If you wouldn't do that, the Hellfire will touch your face".

Protection and security of people: Addressing more than 100,000 people, Muhammad (pbuh) said in his last sermon;

"O people, believers are but brothers. No one may take his brother's prope rty w itho u t h is ful I co n sen L Ha ve I d e I i ve red the Message? O Allah, my Lord be my witness.

Never go back smiting each other's necks. Verily, I have left among you that which if you take it, you will never stray after me: the Book of God and my example. Have I delivered the Message? 0 Allah my Lord, be my witness*!

All people stand on equal footing in frontof the law: Muhammad (pbuh) emphasised that all people should respect the law whereas offenders must be punished regardless of their social status. When the law is applied justly, all people enjoy justice and security.

For example, theft and robbery are an attack on people's properties. Offenders must be punished regardless of their race and social class. Muhammad (pbuh) Indicated that no one is above the law even Muhammad's relatives. He stated clearly that he would punish his beloved daughter (Fatima) if she stole (someone's property) 3 .

Judge with justice; the story of To'mah and a Jewish man: On one occasion, an Arab man called To'mah Bin Ubayriq stole a metal shield which was part of a suit of armour and hid it at the house of his Jewish friend. The Jewish person was accused of stealing the metal shield but he denied the charge and accused To'mah,

As the offender was not known yet, many Arab Muslims sympathised with To'mah and tried to influence Muhammad's opinion to turn the case against the Jewish man but Islamic justice prevailed,To'mah was proved guilty and the Jewish man was proved to be innocent. In this context, a verse was revealed in the Holy Qur an asserting justice:

"Surety We have sent down to you the Book with truth so that you judge between people according to what God has shown you ftauglit you justice). So don't be a pleader on behalf of those who betray their trust" HwHoJyQuran. V in.".t:i-, i

Women's rights and obligations: Muhammad (pbuh) reaffirmed protection of women's rights in his farewell address. He said:

"O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women but they also have rights overyou.

Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under God's trust and with His permission. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers".

Protection of orphans' rights: Muhammad (pbuh) conveyed God's Commandments in relation to orphans. The Holy Quran commands for kindness with orphans, fair treatment and protection of their rights.

Indeed, those who consume the wealth (property) of the orphans unjustly are only consuming fire into their bellies. For they shaft roast in Blaze (burn in Hellfire).

Ihf lloty Quran, Vemit JO, Ch 4

Muhammad (pbuh) said:

1 and the person who looks after an orphan, will be in Paradise like this" putting his index and middle fingers together" A .

Deliver the trusts to those entitled to them: Muhammad (pbuh) was asked to lead a funeral prayer for a person, but he first asked hiscompanions:"Didthis man borrow any money or has in his possessions any trusts that belong to others?", they said: "Yes". Muhammad (pbuh) asked them first to deliver the trusts to those entitled to them and then he would pray for him. Verse 58, Chapter 4 in the Holy Qur an states:

"Allah Commands you to deliver (render back) trusts (duties) to those entitled to them, and when you judge between people, to judge with justice, How excellent what Allah exhorts (admonishes, cautions) you; surely Allah is All-hearing, All-Seeing".

Protection of heirs' rights:

According to Islamic law, when someone dies, his or her closest family members are entitled to get stipulated portions of the Inheritance (wealth and property of a deceased person}, Islam does not allow a person to allocate in the will more than one third of his / her wealth for charity or donation purposes.TMs is to protectthe in heritors'rights and ensure fair distribution of the inheritance among all of them.

&/10> " m *

Muhammad (pbuh) visited one of his companions after being recovered from an Illness. The man ^ said he owned a great wealth and he had only one daughter as an heir (inheritor). He asked Muhammad if he 7TgS% can leave two-thirds of his wealth as a 4 charity, Muhammad said: "No 1 !The man said what about the half. Muhammad said: "No". The man said what about one-third. Muhammad said; "The one-third (agreeing) and the one-third is a lot To leave your heir(s) wealthy is better than leaving them poor asking for help"

No usury In Islam:

Muhammad (pbuh) said: "God has forbidden you to take usury, therefore all interest obligations shall henceforth be waived, Your capital is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity, Allah has judged that there shall be no usury (interest)"

"Tliose who charge usury are in the same position as those controlled by the devit's influence. Tim is because they claim that usury is the same as trade. However, God permits trade, and prohibits usury"

'the Holy qur'in. V 275, Ch J / ^fj^

4^

This iilti*; word ■Muh.^mm^d' , in frrahir bwing designed In a formative v.y\e. (hen repealed In an ^r-i--.l ir w iy rnyrtcsy A.rr.ij.1 T^irid Al-Ali,

Honor killing and bloodshed is forbidden: Muhammad (pbuh) abolished blood vengeance ( (revenge or retaliation) and vendetta {blood feud or dispute). At his fa rewel I ad d ress he d ec I ared;

"Every right arising out of homicide (murder) in pre-lslamic days is henceforth waived and the first such right that I waive is that arising from the murder of Rabi'ah (a relative of Muhammad)",

Deliberate murder and killing by mistake: A deliberate murder is subject to retaliation in kind, the killer must be sentenced.

But, whoever kills some one by mistake and causes accidental death must pay compensation to the family of the killed person, At the time of Muhammad, the indemnity was one hundred camels. Muhammad [pbuh) told his people that whoever asks for more than this figure is a person of the Era of Ignorance.

Only fight those who fightyou: Muhammad (pbuh) taught his followers to be assertive with their enemies, neither submissive not aggressive. He was inevitably involved in battle fields, Muhammad (pbuh) set rules and ethics of engagement with enemies in battles and dealing with prisoners of war.

161

He taught Muslims not to fight civilians and not to attack or kill children or women or elders. He asked them not to destroy the environment or damage trees.

DO NOT KILL

civilians, children, women and elders,

DO NOT DESTROY

environment and do not cut trees

He always reminded them that their involvement in battles should be on assertive ground and for the

sake of God Who does not like transgressors. Verse 190, Chapter 2 of the Holy Quran sets the basic rule for fighting enemies and aggressors. It clearly states

"And fight far the suke of Allah those whojightyou and don't transgress the limits. Verily, Allah does not like transgressors"

Muhammad considered committing suicide a major sin:

Muhammad (pbuh) put it in these words: "Whoever kills him/ herself with a piece of metal, he/she will be resurrected on the Day of Judgment holding the same piece of metal and killing him/herself continuously in the Helffire forever, and whoever kills him /herself with a poison he/she will be resurrected

holding the same poison and swallowing it continuously in the Hellfire forever, and whoever kills himself/herself by throwing himself/herself from a high place such as a mountain, he or she will do the same in the Hellfire

forever". 5

Sanctity & inviolability of human lives:

Because God is the creator of life and the only controller of it, He owns every creature's life. God states in the Holy Qur'an in relation to the first murder incident in the history when Cain, the son of Adarn, killed his brother Abel:

"For that We decreed for the Children of Israe that whosoever murders a human-being who

had not committed murder or horrendous crimes (mischief on the earth), it shall be as if

he had murdered all the people, and whosoever saves the life of a human-being, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind".

'Ihe Holy Qur'an, V J2. Ch 5

r?

163

Muhammad condemned violence: Muhammad (pbuh) never used violence as a tool to convey God s Message or impose God's religion. Although he established an Islamic state in Madinah, he never used the small Muslim community who remained in Mecca to create trouble or assassinate his enemies. In fact, he asked his followers to respect the social order of the society they lived in.

Muhammad (pbuh} taught believers that whenever and wherever gentleness or kindness is used in a matter, it will add value to it and will bring good results. He also taught that roughness and indelicate behaviours will spoil every matter.

"O mankind!

We have created you from a male and a female,, and have

made you nations and tribes that you may know one another. Verily the most honorable, of you in the sight of Allah, is the best in conduct and most pious. Verily Allah is All-Knower, All-Aware".

The Holy Quran, V 13, Ch 19, The Inner Aparlmcnls (Al-Hujurat)

Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings regardless of their race, sex, color, language, religion

and social status-People are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood,

mm

165

ENDNOTES

1 Riyadh Al-Salihin (1604/5)

2 Riyadh Al Salihin (1S03/4), (1605/6}

3 Far mare information about Islamic law and justice ;n Islam please see http^Avww.islarnreligion,com/category/l 10/

4 Sahih Al-Bukhari (34/8)

5 Sahih Al-Bukhari (5778) ar>d Sahih Muslim (109)

Nelson Mandela the first president of democratic South Africa. He represents the struggle for a democratic and free South Africa in which all people live together as one nation united in their diversity.

Al

1

EifJIl

sap

Sf^ Artistic designs from the word "Muhammad" in Arabic Courtesy ofForidAl-Ati.

The bowing tree; It was found in a ca mping s ite i n Nowra, South of Syd n ey, Australia. It resembles bowing to God in the Muslim's prayers.The lower edge of t he tree I gok* I i ke the h ead of a bowin g person.

Chapters 16?

Muhammad's Teachings to Preserve the Environment

Muhammad called for a green world: He linked the preservation of the environment to the belief in God Who created all beings L Therefore, a believer in God can not cause mischief to the environment because it is part of God's Kingdom, Harming the environment and wasting or polluting its resources {water, plants, animals, soil, air, marine ecosystem, etc) is not acceptable from an Islamic point of view.

"Any Muslim who plants a seed that grows to a level, people or animals or birds can benefit or eat from it, then this act is considered

as a Sadaqa'' (a charity that is rewarded by God)1

Muhammad iPbuh)

Natural resources are in perfect equilibrium:

Muhammad (pbuh) taught his followers that all natural resources were created by God and were set by Him in perfect equilibrium. God said In the Holy Qur'an which was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh)

"Verily all things We created tire in proportion and measure".

".. and everything with Him is in due proportion (measured)".

",.lhe work (creation & artistry oj Allah) Who perfected all things (disposed all things in perfect order)"

Hie Holy Quran, V49, Ch54; V B, Ch 13) V 88. Oi 27,

People have equal rights in natural

resources: Natural resources are

the gift of God to all mankind.

They should not be wasted or

monopolized. Muhammad

(pbuh) stated that

people have equal

shares in water, grass

[green cover) and

fire (energy) 2

{except what

was officialy

privatized).

169

w

v

L _ I. _ tt +

e Allah the best of creators" *\

a and flora are the creation of God

"No Harm" is a general rule: Muhammad (pbuh} set a general rule for protecting the natural resources, preserving the environment and securing people when he said to his companions:

"You are not to harm or to | be harmed" 3

"Faith fin God) can be branched into more than 70 parts topped by testifying the oneness of God. The last part is removing harm from people's way", 4

Muhammad (Pbuhl

This is the word "Muhammad" written in a formative style of Arabic calligraphy. It looks Site qteen leaves from a tree.

Muhammad emphasised water rationing and condemned wasting a end overspending:

Muhammad (pbuh) stated clearly to a companion (who was performing ablution) not to waste water even if he were close to a running river 5 .

On another occasion Muhammad (pbuh) told his companions not to pollute stagnant water or urinate in it 6 .

God said in the Holy Qur J an:

"...Out of water. Wfe made every living creature."

"Verily the spendthrifts (wasteful people) are the brothers of devils and the Satan has ever been ungrateful to his Lord"

"...Eat and drink with no extravagance. Certainly He does not like the prodigals (those who waste and overspend)"

The Hcdy Qur'an ViO. ChJJ; V27, Ch I" V.U.Ch?

Add value to the environment: Muhammad (pbuh) encouraged people to continuously add value to the environment even if the whole universe is collapsing and life is ending on this planet. He said:

"If the Hour came {i.e. the end of the worldly life) and someone had a seedling in his hand and he were able to plant it, then let him do it ' 7 . Believers in God are required to add value to the environment and protect It God does not like those who cause mischief (on the earth) and destroy the crops and cattteS.

"And seek the dwelling of the Hereafter and don't forget your portion of lawful enjoyment in this world and do good as Allah has been good to you and seek no mischief in the land, Verily Allah does not like those who cause mischief

Muhammad (pbuh) called for ethical treatment of animals: He was against detaining or confining or restraining animals for no genuine reason. AlsOj he didn't like lashing animals or hitting them on their faces. He used different teaching

styles to emphasise the good treatment of animals, (e.g. direct instructive style, indirect style through story telling and practical teaching by taking action in real cases}.

Animals and all creatures form part of communities like us: Muhammad {pbuh) conveyed God's Words in this context. God said in the Holy Qur'an:

"There is not an animal or creature (that lives and moves) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, hut they are communities like you. We have not neglected anything in the Book and they (ail creation) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end'\

Tht Holy Our'™, V J*. Ch 6, [lie CalUe

173

On one occasion, Muhammad (pbuh) wanted to pass a message to a person regarding good treatment of animals. He told him that his camel "complained" to him because it was loaded with more than it could bear.

On another occasion,

Muhammad (pbuh) said to his companions: "Whoever captured the babies of this bird should return them back to their mother (which was running like a headless chick). 9

Muhammad taught clemency with animals in action: In t he y ea r 62 7 C E he wa s I ead i ng h i s fol I o wers a nd h ea d i ng to Mecca to perform Urn rah {i.e. religious rites and worship). Muhammad (pbuh) changed the route of the whole convoy because he did not want to frighten a female dog who was giving birth in a spot blocking their way,That spot was close to an area called Tludaybiya" (which is still known by this name until now in Saudi Arabia).

Halal means more than Halai food: Muhammad (pbuh) taught his

followers that they have no right to kill any animal unless permitted by God, It is only with God's permission (to whom all creatures belong to) that certain types of animals can be slaughtered for human consumption. Only vegetarian animals can be slaughtered to be eaten with the exception of pigs (e.g. cows, sheep, chicken and birds that eat no flesh}.

M u ham m ad (pbu h) ta u g h t h i s fol I owers that Eawfu I ( H a I a!) killing of animals should be done in the least painful manner: For example, the animal can't be slaughtered by a blunt blade (it must be very sharp). An animal must not be hit by a stone or slaughtered next to another animal Watching the slaughter process. Muhammad [pbuh) Said to a person who was slaughtering an animal besides another one "do you want to kill the other animal twice? 10

175

You will be rewarded for being kind to animals: A kind act, even to animals, deserves to be rewarded by God. Muhammad (pbuh) once told his companions a story of a thirsty man who found a well of water and went down to drink When he went up, he found a thirsty dog (gasping) so he went down in the well again to fill his shoe with water and bring it up to the dog. God was thankful for this man and he forgave his past sins.

On another occasion, Muhammad (pbuh) told his companions that God had punished a woman because she imprisoned or confined a cat until it died. She neither fed the cat nor let it go, 11

ENDNOTES

1 Narrated by Bukhari (2320) and Muslim (1552) and Riyadh Al-Saliheen (135/19)

2 Narrated by Imam Ahmad and Abu Da wood

3 Narrated by Nawawi, Mazini • Muwatta

4 Narrated in Riyadh Al-Saliheen (125/9}

5 Narrated by Imam Ahmad and IbnMaja

6 Narrated by Nassa'i, Imam Ahmad and Ibn Maja

7 Narrated by Bukhari

8 TheQur'ar>(Ch2,V205)

3 Riyadh Al-Saliheen (2/1610) 10 Narrated in Riyadh Al-Saliheen ) 1 Narrated in Riyadh Al-Saliheen

"Say, O people, lam the messenger of Allah (God) to all of you

To Him belongs the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth Them is no god except He (Allah) He controls life and death So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the illiterate prophet; who believes in

Allah and His Wards; Follow him, that you may be guided"

The Holy Oju'an ¥458, Ch 7 (The Heights)

Chapter 9 179

God's Miracle to Muhammad

Many scholars believe that Muhammad's mission to convey Gods Message and bring people to faith was harder than the mission of many messengers and prophets before him. The main miracle he brought was the Qur'an which was recited in original Arabic as a divine revelation from God,

Despite the resistance he received from his own people who spoke Arabic he conveyed Islam to nations and communities of different languages, cultures and religions outside the Arabian Peninsula.

"Will they not ponder on the Quran? If it had been from other than Allah they would have found therein much incongruity (inconsistency)".

The Holy Qur'an. V *5i. C.h 1

Why is the Holy Qur 1 an considered an eternal miracle?

There is no human author for the Holy Quran Muslims consider it as Gods' Word and His eternal Message to all mankind. They believe it i5 the only book that contains the Words of God without being rephrased by His Messenger or anyone else.

I Unlike physical miracles that were I brought by true prophets and I messengers and seen only by the I people who lived at their times, the I HolyQur'an is considered by Muslims I as an eternal miracle that can be I touched, seen, read and conveyed I from one generation to another. Verse SS, Chapter 17 states:

"Say (O'Muhammad): "If the whale humanity and Jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this. Quran they could not produce the like thereof even if they bucked up each other with help and support",

ThcKofy 0,urtn VBB,Chl7

Incomparable preservation of the Quranic text: The present Holy Qur an is identical to the one revealed to Prophet Muhammad {pbuh) more than fourteen centuries ago. Initially, it was memorized by most pious Muslims (word byword and letter by letter).

Then, soon after the passing away of Muhammad (pbuh), the complete Holy Qur'an was first compiled in one book when Abu Baker As-Siddiq became the first caliph in Islam, Several genuine copies were generated and distributed to different Islamic states or regions when Othman Bin Affan became the third caliph 13 years after the passing away of Prophet Muhammad {pbuh).

This is part of o verse in the Holy Qtira'n. God soys to His people: Tail Me artd i wilt dnswwr you". Ch 40 (The fargrver)

181

Th e concept of rec u r ren ce Tawa ator " confi rms the a bsol ute authenticity of Quran because it indicates that the same text was narrated by different groups of people and passed from one generation to another without contradictions or discrepancies or discontinuity

Distinctiveness ol Qur'an: It should be noticed that Muhammad's sayings and teachings were not mixed with the Holy Qur'an (which only contains God's Words without any human comments or elaborations). Muhammad's sayings and teachings were collected in books which were called "The Sunnah or Hadith of the Prophet" They include his teachings, his way of life and explanation of the Book [The Holy Qur'an).

Comparison between Hadith books and other holy books: Most holy books of different religions are authored and written by human beings with their own words and phrases. Since Hadith books were collected by Muslim scholars and contained Muhammad's own sayings and teachings, many researchers consider them as similar to other holy books.

For example, the Bible was written over a period of 1400 to 1800 years by 40 different authors. It is a compilation of 66 separate books, divided into two primary divisions: the Old Testament (containing 39 books} and the New Testament (containing 27 books).

Trie language of the Holy Qur'an indicates that God is speaking to humanity, ft frequently uses the pronoun "We" with verbs and the word "Say* (i.e. Say O M uh a m mad to them). Mu hammad (pbuh) stated clearly that what he recited as Qur'an is God's Own Words not his words.

Incomparable preservation of the style of reciting Qur'an: When the Holy Qur'an is read or recited, the term "Tajweed" is commonly mentioned or highlighted to

describe the knowledge that deals with the rules controlling the way of reading the Holy Qur'an,

Muslims trust it is not only the Quranic text that was uniquely preserved but also the styles in which Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions recited it.

The styles of reciting the Holy Qur'an documented by the names of the narrators and recitersstartingfromthose who heard it from Muhammad (pbuh) until now. This is across the whole Islamic world and continued from one generation to another generation until now.

It is believed that Tajweed" is a very unique science not available In other religions. It reflects the highest level of attention given by the companions of Muhammad (pbuh) in order to preserve the way he recited the Holy Qur'an word by word.

The rich language of the Holy Qur'an: It was revealed in original Arabic. Muslim scholars believe that Arabic language is superior to many other languages as it is well supported by a huge number of words and a strong Arabic grammar.

This indicates that the Arabic language can be more precise than other languages in describing Gods Words. For example, Arabic language has 28 letters, so me of them don't exist in other languages such as "D had "which is the heavy "D" and"Tau" which is a heavy T"

The number of derivations from each original or root word can exceed 100 derivations and accordingly the total number of words in Arabic language may exceed six million words. This is far higher than the number of words of most known languages in the world.

Significant Scientific Facts in the Qur'an

The big bang and the creation of the universe:

At Muhammad's ti me {pbuh) nobody k ne w a nyt h i n g a bout the creation of the universe and the motion of the planets

and whether the earth was flat or round, Muslims believe that God the Creator of the universe is the only One Who knows how it was created.

X

Fourteen centuries ago, the Holy Qur'an mentioned (in a miraculous manner) the creation of the universe, the motion of the sun and the motion of the moon, the rotation of the earth and the formation of day and night.

Modern science explains the creation of the universe by the "Big Bang theory" which is supported by observational and experimental data gathered over decades. According to the "Big Bang theory" the whole universe was initially one big mass then there was a huge explosion which resulted in the

185

formation of galaxies out of agglomerated clouds of celestial matter in a smoke or , gaseous form.

The expansion of the universe: In 1925 ; American astronomer Edwin Hubble provided observational evidence that stars are moving away from each other which implies that galaxies and the whole universe is expanding. Also, it Is an established scientific fact that planets move in elliptical orbits around the sun and rotate around their axes.

One will be surprised at the similarities between the modern scientific discoveries and the following verses in the Holy Qur'an which were recited by Muhammad (pbuh) more that 14 centuries ago and preserved until now.

"Haven't the disbelievers known that the heaven and the earth were joined together as one piece and We separated them apart and We made every living thing of water? Will they not then belie ve? V 30, Ch 21 (Prophe t<t)

He, "the Almighty God" s tamed to the heaven when it was smoke and said to it and to the earth: come together willingly or unwillingly, they said: we come together in willing obedien ce V 11, Ch 41 (fusnilatj

"And it is He Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. All (the celestial bodies) swim along (Jlaat), each in iis rounded course (orbit)". V33,Ch 2] (Prophets)

"With power and skill We created the heaven and We are continuously expanding it." V47, ch 51 (lhanyaL).

187

Embryology and treatian of humankind: Muhammad (pbuh) recited the following miraculous verse that explains the creation of mankind. Such knowledge was not known at his time and the science of embryology was not yet discovered 1400 years ago.

"...He creates you in the wombs of your mothers, creation after creation, in a three veils of darkness (threefold gloom). This is Allali, your Lord. Vie Sovereignty is His. Hiere is no God except Him. How then are you turned away?".

"Iht- HiJy Cjur'in. V f>, Ch )V (Al-Zoour]

Modern science explains that there are three layers that form veils of darkness that surround the fetus in the womb and provide sturdy and powerful protection for the embryo; {1) the interior abdominal wall of the mother, (2} the uterine wall and (3) the amino-chorionic membrane.

The creation of humankind is described miraculously in the following verse from the Holy Qur an

"Verily We created man from clay (quintessence of product of wet earth), then

We placed him as a drop (of sperm) in a safe lodging; Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed (solid) blood, then of thai dot We made a fetus lump, then We made Out of that lump bones then covered the bones with flesh, and then produced it another creation".

The Holy (Jur'm, V" 12-14, Ch 23

Surprisingly, embryo development as stated in the Holy Qur'an was found identical to the discoveries of medicine science, Also, it was

found that bones were formed before the formation of flesh, exactly as mentioned in the above verse. 2

In addition, scientists discovered that the hearing sense for the embryo develops in the mothers' womb before the sense of sight. This is compatible to the sequence mentioned in the Holy Qur'an. Verses 9:32, 2:76, 78:23 all refer to the hearing sense before the sight sense.

"...So blessed be Allah the best of Creators".

Vht Hi»ly Qui-'jn, Vl-I, Ch 2.1 (The believers)

Astonishing counting of years: Verse 25, Chapter 18 {The Cave) in the Holy Qur'an talks about the seven sleepers and states that they spent 300 years in the cave and additional "9 years". Nobody knew at Muhammad's time why the verse didn't state the total number as "309 years" instead of the above expression.

Also, in Arabia, nobody knew at that time the difference between lunar year and Solar / Gregorian calendar. The Lunar year is 11 days shorter than the Solar one. The amazing fact is: in 300 years, the difference between the lunar year and Solar/Gregorian year is 9 years,

The Holy Qur'an is commonly printed in 604 pages. It contains S0000 words approximately which form &34S verses that comprise 114 chapters. The longest chapter in the Holy Qur'an is composed of 286 verses and the shortest one is composed of 3 verges only,

Amazing information of future events: Verses 2-5 , Chapter 30 in the Holy Qur an state:

"Ttie Romans have been defeated ttt the nearest/ lowest land but they will gain victory within a few years. Allah has the Command in the former case and in the latter and on that day believers (in God) will rejoice and will be pleased with the victory of God. He helps to victory whom He Wills, He is the All Mighty, the _ Merciful".

M mk At Muhammad's time (Pbuh), it is virtually

I impossible for Arabs to predict how

the development of the conflict would ^^(^^^ be between the two superpowers fat

their time) within the next ten years and whether a defeated empire can restore victory within few years. It is a historical fact that the Persian Empire defeated the Roman Empire in the period {614-619 CE) in Palestine area and captured Jerusalem, But within a few years, the Romans had restored victory over the Persians at Nineveh {a city in Iraq).

Incredible geography:

Surprisingly, the recent geological research found that the Dead Sea which lies in the Jordan rift valley is the deepest hyper saline lake in the world. It is 422 meters {1,335 ft) below the sea level, Its shores are the lowest point on the surface of earth. The above Qur anic verses indicate that the Romans were defeated at the nearest Roman land to Arabia and in fact it included the lowest land on the earth.

Note: The originol Arabic wofd^odna" {verse 3 shove) indicates both meanings nearest andhweu

ENDNOTES

1. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew 1500-400 BC New Testament was composed in Greek and written during the second half of the first century AD. It is generally agreed that the Book of Matthew was the first Gospel written between A.D. SO and 75. Of the four Gospel's, John's is considered to have been the last one written, around A.D. 85.

2. See more information about embryology www.qutanandscience.corn www.islamreligion.com

3. To access more Information about the scientific facts in the Holy Qufan you can browse www.eajaz.org

This is a testimony in Arabic calligraphy which was designed in an artistic way. It notes; I witness that there is no God except Altoh and Muhammad is His servant and His messenger.

Muhammad's sayings and teachings are very influential as they covered most aspects of life. They e ma n ated from a base of wisdom a nd

Divine revelation. His sayings, actions, approvals and attributes better known es "sunnah" represent the second source of Islamic legislation after The Holy Quran.

Your companion (i.e. Muhammad) has not strayed from the path of truth nor has he hem deluded. Nor does he speak out of whim

The I loly O^imn, V J.J, Ch jJ

Muhammad SBid (Interlacing his both hands fingers):

"Believers are a structure like, they fasten each other"

Wflrrnff d by nukhuiri, Muilim ATlrrnirhj

Muhammad (pbuh) drew three lines on the sand and said; "This is the human being (who has many hopes and plans in this worldly life). While he lives to attain or aeeomplish these hopes death comes to him",

fNarrateti by Buktuiri, Turmitfii)

"Avail five before five :

Your youth before senility (old esgei Fitness before sickness Wealth before poverty (needy) Free linw before busy time Life before death". sRiyadk Salihcm i

"The perfect believers are those who have the

(f&irrtiitil by Tutrni/bii

qa a

E

best manners" , *~ d

"7W graces, many people underestimate; health and free {leisure) time". (Riyadh Sulihecn)

"Envy is forbidden except in two canes (you wish to have the same thing others have but no bad wishes to them). The first one is a man, God bestowed on him wealth, so he spends it righteously, the second case is a man, God bestowed on him wisdom., so he acts according to it and teaches it to others". oiutJtan. 73it$)

"Make things easy to people (concerning religious inttfters), and do not mala' it hard for them; give them good tidings and do not moke them run away". (Bitkfmi.69tll)

'Those who do honest trading and business based on char terms. God blesses them and their business (trade), Contrary, God docs not bless those who lie and hide facts".

"You will not lie a believer in God unless you like for yarn brethretis what you like for yourself, iliitklmn. lit?}

"Every Muslim should pity Stidaqa $ spend for charity), if he didn 'tfind what to spend then let him work in order to benefit himself and be able to pay charity, if he didn St

find a job, then let him help others {this is an act of charity), if he didn't find anyone to help, let him do good deeds and refrain from (avoid) doing bad o\ evil deeds. This is a charity for him", (smart, l44stM>)

"Wlien man dies, he gains no rewards except from three things; in case he had dedicated a charity that people can continuously profit from or he had left knowledge or a science (hat benefits the humanity or if he had left a good (faithful) son who keeps on praying and asking Gods blessings and forgiveness to his parents".

lliW fi tlpjllii-ilblf far Ixith mulri amtfrMaleil

iNwwted Muslim, TlnMfhl, Natutr'l)

"Goodness (Tightness) is good ftuxrality; und sin (misdeed) is what embarrasses you (i.e. you are not comfortable within yourself) and you hate it to he known

by Others". {Muslim. JS/2SS3)

"A strong person is not rhe one who throws his adversaries to the ground. A strong person is he who coniahis himself when he is angry". {Nun-turdby Bukkun.M»a&bn A AhmtKf)

"Whoever belie ves in Ailah and the Day of Judgement should say ftixjiJ (words) or keep silent and whoever believes in Alhdt and the Day of Judgment must honor (be generous with) his ntightxtr cttid whoever Itelieves in Allah ami die Day aj Judgment must honor (In 1 geneti/us with) his guest". iSakhari. 6Q1& & Muslim 74^7) fPlease nme aftiht above seiyix%<, aft applitabte far W/tfi mutes imtlfi-matt-si

\97

Sayings of Prophet Muhammad in Relation to Food and Medicine

Prevention is better than cure

Although Muhammad fpbuh) was not a physician, his sayi n gs in re I at i o n to food, healthy eat ing h a bits, treatment with herbs and alternative medicine were collected in books later known as "The Prophetic Medicine"

Muhammad (pbuh) indicated on several occasionsthebellyistheworstpottofilL Small meals and a few bites that satisfy hunger will be better than filling the stomach. It will help a great deal avoid health complications.

He encouraged his companions to eat and drink in moderation, avoid obesity and maintain an active and a healthy style of life He recited God's Words in this context. Verse 31, Chapter 7 in the Holy Qur'an states:

"O Children of Adam! W'earyour beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: but do not be prodigal (waste by excess). He (God) does not like prodigals (extravagantpeople)."

Muhammad prescribing barley: Today, there Is a great deal of research that demonstrates the amazing health benefits of barley. Barley grass is a whole food supplement.

It contains a wide spectrum of enzymes, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and all eight essential amino acids including Tryptophan which helps prevent depression,

Muhammad (pbuh) recommended barley soup {talbinah) for stomach disorder and indicated in his undisputable sayings that it helps relieve sorrow and depression. His wife Aisha used to recommend the close relatives of a deceased person to haveTalbina soup in order to relief sorrow. (Narrated in Sahih Bukhari).

Ik

199

According to medical research, depressive illness is found to be caused by a decrease of certain chemicals or neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsfble for mood. Antidepressants stimulate chemical changes that increase the levels of these neurotransmitters.

The three main neurotransmitters associated with mood are serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, ^, Barley was found to influence serotonin in a positive way that relieves depression. The prescription of Barley by Muhammad (pbuh) 1400 years ago was definitely a miraculous medicine.

*

It is revealing that Muhammad (pbuhj did not indulge in regular wh ea t consu mpti on, but ate instead mostly barley and bread made from barley flour.

It is discovered that whole grain barley has many health benefits. It can regulate blood sugar prevent tiny blood clots, and reduce the body's production of cholesterol.

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Zamzam mineral water: Zamzam is the name of mineral water that comes out of a well 20 meters [SSm east of Kaaba in Makkah city the holiest plate in Islam. Muslims believe that it was miraculously generated thousands of years ago when Ibrahim's son Ishmael was thirsty and kept crying and kicking the ground until water gushed out (He was with his mother Hagar),

It is slightly alkaline (pH=7.5) and has a distinct taste. (Pfease note that drinking de-mineralized water such as distilled waters wilt create an acid pH in the stomach and intestines. Also, it wilt aggravate acid reflux).

Muhammad (pbuh) said that Zamzam water is a blessed water from God. It is a lavish meal and a healer from many

diseases, (narrated by Bazzar atvJTab*rani).

Mineral water is classified by the U.S. FDA or Food and Drug Authority as having at least 250 parts per million (ppm} (total dissolved solids TDS).

Chemical analysis of Zamzam water revealed that it has TDS in excess of 1000 pptn of mg/L. It complies with World Health Organization (WHO) standards for potable water.

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It is a plentiful meal that contains a range of minerals that the human body needs such as calcium (which is needed for strong bones and for the heart, muscles and nerves to function properly). Fluoride which is necessary for teeth and bicarbonates which helps food digestion.

Zamzam water is one of the richest potable waters in Calcium, It has 195-200 mg/L Calcium, (this is about 20% of the average recommended daily intake of calcium for adults).

It is higher than many known mineral waters on the earth such as "Evian" (78-80 mg/L Calcium} and "Perrier" (147-150 mg/L Calcium) 5 .

6

Mineral water has a wide range of therapeutic functions that can relieve and treat muscle and joint inflammation, rheumatism and arthritis.

"Dii* m r.ne wortf Ra&uS A!lf>h"(M£.<i.'iengar nf Gf>d) in Arabic being written m a formalrve slyte which looks like a dropki! ofwater. Courtesy of Fsird MM

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Truffle as a medicine:

Muhammad (pbuh) said: "Truffles are a kind of 'Manna' (sent down upon the children of Israel) and their juice is a medicine for the eyes",

NaT rated by Bukhari, Muslim SrTirmithi

Truffle is a fleshy fungus mushroom-like plant that belongs to the Agaricaceae family. It grows in groups under the surface of the soil (2-50 cm deep) in desert moist areas without leaves or roots. It has a distinct smell and can be white, gray or brown in color.

According to the analytical research, 77% of truffle is water and the rema i n i n g pa rt is a m ix of protein, fa t, ca rbohyd ra t e 5 and other materials.

However, modern science discoveries indicate that the liquid of truffles has an effective curable effect for many eye diseases including Trachoma which is an infectious eye disease that causes damage to the cornea cells.

Muhammad and olive oil:

Muhammad (pbuh} described olive oil as it comes from a blessed tree. He recommended his co m pa n i o n s to eat olive oi I a nd to anoint or smear it over their body

skin (Narrated byTirmiE.ril)

All modern scientific discoveries confirm that olive oil is full of health benefits. Most of the fatty acid "building blocks" that make up olive oil come from mono-usaturated fat (good fat) which offers protection against heart disease by controlling LDL (bad cholesterol) cholesterol levels while raising HDL (the good cholesterol] levels.

Olive oil is very well tolerated by the stomach. Its protective function has a beneficial effect for treating ulcers and

Extra virgin olive oil, from the first pressing of the olives, contains higher levels of antioxidants, particularly vitamin E and phenols, because it is less processed.

Today, olive oil is considered a good remedy for skin problems and an effective moisturizer.

Those at risk for diabetes are advised to combine a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet with olive oi Studies show this combination is superior at controlling blood sugar levels compared to a diet that consists entirely of low-fat meals.

The story of Suraqah; a prediction takes place 20 years later:

When Muhammad (pbuh) migrated to Madinah with his close companion Abu Bakr (622 CE) r the Meccan leaders announced a large reward of 100 camels for anyone who could bring Muhammad (pbuh) dead or alive.

Unfortunately Muhammad {pbuh] and his companion were tracked down by one of the Arab knights named Suraqah bin Malik who was tempted by the big reward. On the way his horse stumbled and he fell on the ground few times. He considered These unusual incidents as an indirect message That Muhammad (pbuh) probably had been supported by divine power.

When Suraqah approached Muhammad (pbuh}, Muhammad said to himv" Do return to your people and I promise you that one day (under the umbrella of the Islamic state) you would wear the bangles (bracelets) of Chosroes (the Persian ruler). Suraqah asked in wonderment if Muhammad (pbuh) meant the bangles of Khusrow bin Hormuz, the emperor of Iran. Muhammad {pbuh) said yes with full confidence and strong faith that the religion of Islam will reach Persia and will be known all over the world.

Suraqah returned back to Makkah buthedidn J t embrace Islam until Muhammad (pbuh) took over Makkah peacefully 8 years later (year 630 CE).

Muhammad (pbuh) passed away in the year 632 CE and his promise to Suraqah was believed by his companions asgenuineandwould happen one day.

Time passed until Omar Bin Al-Khattab became the second caliph (ruler of the Muslim state). At his time, Islam reached Persia in the year 642 CE and all the treasures of Khusrow, the emperor of Persia fell in the hands of Omar,

Omar remembered the story of Suraqah and asked his companions to bring him in, (20 years passed since this story took place and Suraqah had become an old man).

After prayer congregation, Omar said to Suraqah; "Here ore the bangles of Khusrow, the emperor of Persia, this is what Muhammad {pbuh) had promised you. Put them on and iet

all Muslims see them so everyone becomes certain that Muhammad's promise is fulfilled."

Suraqah cried and every one wept, Muhammad's prediction became a reality 10 years after he passed away

Muhammad,. The Man

History has recorded Muhammad's sublime and humane dealing with people. His call and teachings were based on amicability and fraternity. Adversity had no place in his conduct.

Michael Hart stated in his book "The 100; A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History":

"Of' humble origins. Muhammad founded and promulgated one of the world's great religions and became tin immensely effective

political leader. Today, thirteen centuries after his death, his influence in still powerful and pervasive. The majority

of persons in this book, had the advantage of being born and raised in centers of [ i l ilisa tic > n, ii ig itly t. ids m vd and politically pivotal nations ".

Muhammad however was born in the year 5?Q CE. in the city of Mecca, in southern

"It Is this unparalleled combination of secular and religious influence which I feel entitles Muhammad to be considered the most influential single figure in human history*

Michael Hart

This is tfie word lAuhammad*in Arabic being designed in a forwatrre style.

I Arabia, at thai time a backward area of the world, far from

I the centers of trade, art and learning ".

U "It is probable thai the relative influence of Muhammad on

M Islam has been larger than the combined influence of Jesus

m Chrisf and St. Fend on Christianity. On the purely religions

I level, then it seems likely that Muhammad has been as

| influential in human history as Jesus ".

Muhammad, the leader:

Speaking objectively about Muhammad, the French writer and politician Al-phonse de Lamartine wrote in hi* book Histoire de la Turquie:

"If the grandeur of the aim.

the smaUness of the means, the immensity of the result are ihe three measures of a man's genius, who would dure humanly compare a great man of modern history with Muhammad?".

"Never has a man proposed for himself voluntarily or involuntarily, a goal more sublime, since this goal was beyond measure: undermine the superstitions placed between the creature and the Creator, give hack God to man ami man to God. n-insfute the rational and saintly idea of

divinity in the midst of this prevailing chaos of material and disfigured gods of idolatry. Never has a man accomplished in such a short time such an immense and long lasting revolution in the world".

Lamartine also indicated that Muhammad didn't move weapons and empires to create a material power but he moved ideas, beliefs, and souls. He founded upon a Book; of which each letter has become a law; a spiritual nationality embracing people of all languages and races in the world.

Muhammad, the Messenger of God;

In the year 630 CE, Muhammad {pbuhl gained victory over the Meccan chiefs and entered Mecca peacefully. He returned home not to live there for the rest of his life but to clear paganism and liberate or restore the original purpose of Ka J ba {the cubical building that was established by Prophet Abraham to worship one God), He removed all idols from around the Ka' ba and asked his companion Bilal to climb on top of the Ka'ba and call:

God is Greatest, God is Greatest, I witness that there is no deity but Allah and I witness that Muhammad is His messenger.

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Muhammad wanted the key for the door of Ka'ba so he called Othman Bin Talha (of Bani-Shayba family) who was the keeper of the Ka'ba key. It is important to know that there was a treaty before Islam in which the honour of being a custodian or a warden of the Ka'ba was given to the family of Bani Shayha.This honour and responsibility was passed from the grandfathers to the sons in the same family until it reached Othman Bin Talha.

Othman Bin Talha was a new muslim at that time, Many years ego he refused to let Muhammad (pbuh) even enter the Ka'ba and pray inside it like other people since he did not believe him. When Muhammad (pbuh) returned to Mecca, Othman had no choice but to give him the key and lose the honour of keeping it-

At that moment many people asked Muhammad (pbuh) to grant them the honour of keeping the key of Ka'ba and thousands of Muslims were looking at Muhammad (pbuh) to see who would be the new custodian of the Ka'ba key.

Breaking a moment of silence, Muhammad (pbuh) opened the door of Ka'ba and cleared it of idols. He looked at Othman Bin Talha and said to him (respecting previous agreements)-

"Today i s a day of I oya I ty a n d p i ety! Ta ke th e key back. As f ro m now and until the Day of Judgment, no one can take it from you (family of Bani Shayba} unless he was an aggressor".

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A moment of fidelity that had lasted until now: You may be surprised to know that the key Is still being held by the offspring of Bani Shayba family until NOW!

More than 1400 years passed and the key is still given from one generation of the Bani Shayba family to the next generation. Until now, no one dares to take it from them otherwise he or she would be considered as an "aggressor" according to Muhammad's description.

Nowadays, when the Saudi authorities perform their annual cleaning and preparation of Ka'ba for the annual pilgrimage, they

contact a person from the Bani Shayba family (who is currently a Saudi family) to open the Ka'ba door for them.

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Karen Armstrong the author of "Muhammad a Prophet for Our Time" indicated that we must approach the life of Prophet Muhammad in a balanced way in order to appreciate his considerable achievements* He had important lessons, not only for Muslims, but also for Western people,

Muhammad literally sweated with the effort to bring peace to war-torn Arabia. His life was a tireless campaign against greed, injustice, and arrogance.

Ka re n t ru sts t hat I f we a re to a void catd strophe, t h e Mus I i m and Western Worlds must learn not merely to tolerate but to appreciate one another. A good place to start is with the figure of Muhammad."

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Digital Arti'si Peter Gould

Sydney-bom designer & digital artist Peter Gould founded Azaon jwww^zaan.corn.au) to explore hi& passion for contemporary graphic design, art, photography and the rich visual & spiritual traditions of Islam. His travels ond studies throughout the Muslim world hove inspired a unique cultural fusion that is reactive to a world of misunderstanding. Peter's work has reached many audiences locally and abroad Ihrough exhibitions and collaborations with other artishs.

Farid Al-Ali, Plastic Artist and talligrapher, Kuwait He is the director of Kuwait Center of Islamic Art and one of the most known artists the Middle East for this resourceful designs and inventive art. In 2005 he released "Muhammadeyat" a collection of 500 artwork designs generated from the word "Muhammad" in Arabic {please see below). The 500 designs are split into 11 groups (soft, square, hexagonal, octagonal, etc). Moreover, Mr. Al-Ali did a similar collection to "Muhammadeyat" but derived from the word "Allah"

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Mohammed Mandi, Artist and Calligrapher, UAE

With his unique experience and creative designs, he was nominated to design the Arabic calligraphy on the ba n k n otes a nd pa 5 5 po ii;s of U AE a nd m any o ther co u ntries. In addition, he was nominated to supervise calligraphic designs In Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE and many other mosques in the world.

C| IU ^3IU An artistic design of the word "Muhammad" based ^™ m Arabic script (separate letters.). It is the main

component of the piece designed by Mr. Mandi which reflects transparent harmony between the artistic designs of the word "MUHAMMAD" in Arabic and English scripts,

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Haji Noor Deen, Master Calligrapher, China Born in 1963 in Shangdong province, China, He is one of the most renowned calligraphers who created a unique link between Chinese and Arabic calligraphy.

The anhtic pieces indicate: There is no God bittAUah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah" The dome in tiie bottom partis formed from the statement "Mvh&mmadis the Messenger ofAUah"

Celina Cebula, Decorative Artist amd Calligrapher, Poland

Graduated from Pedagogical University in Cracow and specialized in decorative art and artistic education. With her distinctive talent to mix calligraphy with painting she was able to reflect new meanings in her artistic designs.

"Unleijyou show mercy to orher^, 'Who does not ihank people doe* Allah will not be merciful to you". not thank Gad".

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Muhammad Attributes Portrait by calligrapher A. Jalsh

Award winning calligrapher Abdul Hah Abu Jaish was honoured to carry out this attribute portrait in 2009.

"Hilya" is the Arabic name for the calligraphic art particularly related to the description of prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The calligraphic form of this Hilya" is inspired by a mosque building shape with a recess containing the Arabic phrase "In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful 1 '

The portrait has a big circle as a mosque dome surrounded with four small circles as pillars under it and has an oblong representing the mosque open yard.

Caliigraphers, throughout history, used to design calligraphic pieces using Arabic alphabets describing the attributes and features of Prophet Muhammad as an expression of their love to him.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Masque, Abu Dhabi, UAE: It is the

largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the eigh th largest mosque in the world Tfie mosque site is equivalent to the size of five football fields approximately. It can accommodate more than 40,000

worshippers. It has 82 domes and4 minarets each 107m high. The mosque has the world's largest carpet which measures 5627 m? and the world's largest chandelier (15 m high and 10m diameter). The mosque is considered as one of the most important tourist attractions in UAE

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Al-Saleh Mosque, Sanaa - Yemen: It is the largest mosque in Yemen. It was opened in 2008, with an overall area of 224000 ml approx. and a capacity of40000 worshippers. The mosque was built in a Yemeni architectural style. It includes 15 wooden doors as well as 6 large minarets.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman: It is the largest mosque in Oman. It was opened in 2001 and includes the world's second largest hand-woven carpet and chandelier, (mosque area - 416,000 sq. meters, complex of the mosque extends to 40,000 sq. meters}.

The Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai, UAE: one of the most attractive

mosques in Dubai which reflects modern Islamic architecture.

Ahmed Af-Fateh Mosque, Kingdom of Bahrain: Was opened in by the late Amir of Bahrain, Sheikh tssa bin Salman Al-Khalifa, The mosque occupies an area of6,S00 square meters ami It can accommodate up to 7000 worshippers. The mosque reflects a transparent blend ofhhrmt architecture and the heal heritage.

Af-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem: it is believed by Muslims that it is the

second mosque placed on the earth for humanity to worship one God (Note: the first one is the sacred mosque in Mecca).. Al-Aqsa Mosque is a sacred place for Muslims and used to be the first Qiblah in Islam (the place Muslims used to direct their faces towards it when praying to God}. After Quranic revelation from God, Muslims were commanded to change the "Qlblab" towards the Mosque of Sewauory in Mdkkah whfch has the Koabo (the cubical building built by Prophet Abraham (pboh) to worship one God). The total area of At-

QibtiMasjid

Aqsa Mosque/ Sanctuary is about 74.4 Hectare or 744000 ml. \t includes two important shrines, the "Qibli Masjid" (where the Imam usuallyleads theprayers and the 'Dome of the Rock".

Dome Of the Rock-Jerusalem: U Is on islamic shrine and a mosque built in the period of 688-692 Cf by the Umayyod Caliph Abdul Malik Bin Morwan over the rock thot is believed by Muslims the place where Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) ascended to the Heavens. It is an octagon building with a golden dome of 29.4m diameter,

The Great Mosque of Samafra, Iraq

It is a 9th century mosque which is heated in the Iraqi city of Hamarra. The

manque twin f: .-1 >; w •►>■'.'. .-W.V i liu! ■: t>inp!r!?i .' v > AS? i'v the Abw.'^i! Caliph

At-Mutawaktti).

The Great Masque ofSomana was atone time the largest mosque in the world; its minaret, the Malwiyo Tower. it a vast spiralling tone (tnaii thaped) 52 meters hiqh and33 meters wide with a spiral ramp. The mosque had 17aisles, and its walls were panelled with rnoi<3ksofdarkbluegktsi.Mrnaret is In thestyle of Babylonian ziggurot.

Umayyad Mosque, Damascus,. Syria

The Ummayad Mosque, established 1706 -715 CE) under the Umayyad caliph Al WaBd. It Is one of the largest and olden tnaquet m the world f/wt has a great architectural importance (mosque interior is approx 4000m 2 . The mosque holds a shine which is believed io contain the head of St. John The Baptist {Prophet Yahya in Arabic), honored as a prophet by Muslims and Christians alike. In 2001 Cape John Paul II visited the mosque, primarily to visit the relit t ofJafin The BajK nr. II wai ti; e fmt time o paid a vivt to a \ nasqu*. The minaret in the southeast comer is called the Minaret of Jesus as many Muslims believe that when Jesus returns, he will descends near this Minaret*

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Taj Mahal, Agra, India: This is not a masque, but a mausoleum (burial building that reflects the Mamie Arcbltechlwei built by Shah Jahan (1592-1666} in memory of his wife. Due to its unique architectural design, it is considered as one of the most important tourist attractions in the world.

A Star Mosque, Dhaka, Bangladesh Auburn Galiipoli Mosque, Sydney, Australia T

A. The Crystal Mosque, Kuala Tsrengganu, Malaysia;

The mosque is mainly made ofCrysial. It is located at Islamic Heritage Park on she island of Wart Mon. /f was officially opened in 2008

Putrajaya Mosque, Malaysia T

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Af-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt: Established in 97 J CE, connected with one ofthe oldest operating univet jft ies in the world (opened 988 CE).

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The Ahmad ibn Tuiun Mosque in Cairo, Egypt

CE, one of the largest in the world, {26,3 IS sq m ) it is also famed for Us lovely architecture and unique minaret

Alhambra Caht, Spain: Atsa called "the red fortress" a and fortress complex, constructed during the ivt'mg of the Muslim Granada (J353-1391 CE). Today it is one of Spain's major tourist attractions exhibiting the most famous islamic architecture in Spain.

Wllhln AShdmbra, the Mate of fttimdn £tnpetot Chovlei Vu/di stilted In 1S27CE.

The Hassan it Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco: ft was completed in

f 993. Designee} by French architect Michel Pinseau. The Great Masque's minaret Is the tallest structure in Morocco and the tallest minaret in the world (210 meters At night, lasers shim a beam from the top of the minaret toward the Mosque of Sanctuary in Mecca. (Capacity: 25008 worshippers!.

The Kairaouine Mosque, Fes, Morocco: founded to 987 ci. it is the

second largest mosque in Morocco (after the new Hassan It Mosque in Casablanca) andone of the oldest universities intbe world. Also, it is me oldest Islamic monument in Fes.

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Note: In Islam there are five prayers cday. The following is a ttanilohan at the words, of tlx "Azaan" (wtl tor each prayer), Each statement is repeated twice- Allah is the Greatest. I bear witness (hot there is no deity but Allah. I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. Come to the prayer. Come to the real success. ASIah is the Greatest. There is no deity but Allah.

Mosque in Penzberg, Germany; The mhuKt k ertgraved with words of f/w "Aiaon"the Muslim call for (hedally pmyen. The Amble calligraphic design was made by award winner calligrapher Mohommed Mandi from UAE.

Ojenne is home to tneworids largest mud mosque. This is more impressive than ft may sound: the building is huge, and manages Jo be elegant bo!h up close and horn a distance. Two times a year all the city's residents drop everything, cart mud up from the nearby Bani river, and togetlier they re-pack the Mosque walls.

References

Abdul Ghani, M. Ilyas, (2003). The History of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, Rasheed Publishing, KSA

Ahmad, Mumtaz ,(1996). Islam and Democracy; The Emerging Consensus; Middle East Affairs Journal,

Al-Bouti, M.S.Ramadan,, (2006) L The Jurisprudence of Seerah (Muhammad's Life), Dar Al-Fikr r Damascus, Syria.

Al-Mutawa, Jassem, (2001), The Wives of the Prophet in Contemporary Time. Kuwait

Al-Mubarakpuri, Safi-ur-Rahman, (1936). The Sealed Nectar: Biography of the Noble Prophet Muhammad, Darussalsm, KSA.

Al-Zayed, Samirah, (1995). The Inclusive Book About Prophet Muhammad's Life,The Scientific Press, First Edition.

Armstrong, Karen, (2002), Islam: A Short History,

A rm stro rig, Ka ren, (1992). M u ham mad: A Biography of t he Prophet.

Armstrong, Karen, (2007). Muhammad: A Prophet forOurTime.

Al-Nawawl, Y.S," Riyadh Al-Saliheen", 2003 Authentic Sayings of Prophet Muhammad, Arabic Cover-Cairo -Egypt

As-Sallaabee. Ali Muhammad , "The noble life of the Prophet", Darussalam, KSA

Bukhari, Mohammad Bin Ismael (Imam Abu Abdullah), (1997). Saheeh Bukhari, International Ideas Home - Amman -Jordan

CIeary, Thomas, (2001). The Wisdom of the Prophet The Sayings of Muhammad

Gulen, M. Fethullah, (2000). Prophet Muhammad: Aspects of His Life, The Fountain, Viginia, USA.

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Hammad, Ahmad Zaki (2007), The Gracious Qur'an: A Mod em-Phrased Interpretation in English, Lucent Interpretations, IL, USA

Hart, Michael, (1992), "The TOO; A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History":,!992, Carol Publishing Group. NJ.-USA

Islam, Yusuf, (1995). "The Life of the Last Prophet'; Darussalam, Saudi Arabia

Khalidi, Tarif (2009). Images of Muhammad: Narratives of the Prophet in Islam Across the Centuries. Kindle Edition

Khan, M. Mutism.," Sahih Al-Bukhari -EnglishTranslation' 4th Ed, 1935, Beirut- Lebanon

Montgomery Watt, W.M974). Muhammad; Prophet and Statesman. Kindle Edition

Pitkthall, Marmaduke (2006).The Qur'an Translated: Message for Humanity - The International Committee for the Support of the Final Prophet, Washington- USA

Ramadan, Tariq; (2009) In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad

Saheeh Int. [2004), The Qur'an English Meanings, Abul-Qassim Publishing -Al Muntada Al-lslami-Jeddah- KSA

Sultan Sohaib N_ Ali, Yusuf Ali, and Smith, Jane I. (2007), The Qu r'a n a n d Sayi n g s of Prophet M uham mad: Sel ec.t Ion s A n notated & Explained (Skylight Illuminations)

Una I, AJi. r "The Holy Qur'an With Annotated Interpretation in Mode rn Eng lisrf, 2006, The L ight -N ew J ersey, USA

Wolfe, Michae I & K ro n emer, A lex (2002). M u h a m ma d: Legacy of a Prophet (DVD - Dec 1S, 2002)

Yusuf, Hamza, (2003) The Life of the Prophet Muhammad (24 Audio CDs).

The Prophet of Islam

MUHAMMAD Biography & Pictorial Guide

"My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful un both the religious and secular levels".

Michael H. Hart

Aulbuv of: Tfw 100, A tfdfiJkwig oflfw Musi Int'tueiilial Pursuits rxi ! JrsrurV