In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
Dr. Abdul Radhi Muhammad Abdul Mohsen
The evidence of prophethood in Islam stands alone in this theme. Never before
the advent of Muhammad, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, was the moral perfection
an evidence of prophethood. Here are some reasons for that:
- The Holy Qur’an praises the Prophet’s morals. The Almighty
Allah says:
"And verily, you [O Muhammad] are on an exalted [standard of]
character." (Qur’an, 68:4)
He mentions that the Prophet’s good morals and conduct made his
companions gather around him. The Almighty Allah says:
"…And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have
broken away from about you…" (Qur’an 3:159)
- The perfect character is a miracle, as many people try hard to achieve
that but cannot.
- The perfect morals necessitates truthfulness which in turn necessitates
acceptance of speech, and since the most important element in prophethood is
telling and accepting of the news, the perfect character is an evidence of
Messengership.
- In confirming the Prohet’s perfect morals and conduct there is a
strong answer to the invective accusing the Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa
sallam, of bad morals that made him unqualified to have the honour of
Prophethood (according to accusers).
- The Prophet’s moral perfection was the strongest evidence that
oblige many people to believe in Muhammad, even before witnessing a tangible
miracle, e.g. Khadijah (the Prophet’s first wife), Abu Bakr, Ali, and
others, may Allah be pleased with them.
The fields of moral perfection that are reliable proofs of prophethood of the
following:
First: the Perfection of Qualities
The Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, had a smiling face that made him
loveable to the people who submitted to him and followed him.
He was also wise, discerning and patient. Severe trials used to make him
stronger. He was the most disinterested in the worldly pleasures. He was the
example of modesty. He was kind to all, he used to walk in the markets and sit
on earth. He was distinguished from his Companions only with shyness and
silence.
One of the Prophet’s most honourable attributes was his extreme
tolerance. The Arabs showed him hatred and animosity but that made him kinder
and more merciful. He showed neither wrath nor vengeance but for Allah’s
sake. He fulfilled the promise and kept the covenant.
Second: The Virtues of the Prophet’s Speech
- The extreme wisdom and the comprehensive knowledge that surprised his
contemporaries.
- The strong capacity to learn by heart, he forgets not even a single
information as regards his Message.
- He explained his laws and teachings with very clear proofs.
- He incided his people for virtues and good conduct, and interdicted
jealousy, hatred and all that is abominable.
- He gave a clear answer whenever asked and a strong proof whenever he
argued.
- He kept his tongue from altering or perverting speech, till he became
known as truthful.
- He expressed what he wanted in a perfect manner.
- He was the most eloquent person who had clear meanings and lucid
words.
Third: The Virtues of Prophet’s Deeds
- His good conduct.
- Combining at the same time mercy (for followers) and awe for those who
opposed him.
- His Shari`ah (law) is a just one, moderate between intemperance and
negligence.
- He took from this world just what is sufficient.
- He explained his teachings and the rule of worship in such a clear
manner that no law other than his is required.
- Combining his inviting to the religion with arguments and his readiness
to fight the enemies till he was victorious.
- His courage in fighting and strong desire to rescue the needy and the
frightened.
- His exemplary generosity.