The Prophet (saas)'s outdoor clothes

Ubayd bin Khaalid (ra) reports that
"I was once going to Madina. I heard a person from behind me say: 'Wear your lungi (loose dress) higher because it avoids physical and spiritual impurities.' (The lungi will remain cleaner and will not become dirty by being dragged on the ground.) When I turned to see who was talking I saw that it was Rasulullah (saas)."106
Salamah bin Akwa (ra) informs us that:
"Uthmaan (ra) wore his lungi till the middle of his shin and said: 'This is how my master Rasulullah (saas) wore his lungi.'"107

The Prophet (saas)'s ring and seal


The seal of the Prophet (saas) is available in the Topkapi Palace.


Anas bin Malik (ra) says:
"Rasulullah (saas) had a ring made of silver and its (inlaid) gem was also of silver."108

When the Prophet (saas) wanted to write to the leaders of foreign states, he ordered a seal-ring to be made.
"Rasullullah (saas) therefore had a ring made, the whiteness of which is still before my eyes."109
"The inscription engraved on the ring of Rasulullah (saas) was 'Muhammad Rasulullah,' of which in the first line was engraved 'Muhammad,' in the second line 'Rasul,' and in the third line 'Allah'."110 


The Prophet (saas)'s manner of walking
Abu Huraira (ra) reports:
"I did not see anyone more handsome than Rasulullah (saas). It was as if the brightness of the sun had shone from his blessed face. I did not see anyone walk faster than him, as is the earth folded for him. A few moments ago he would be here, and then there. We found it difficult to keep pace when we walked with him and he walked at his normal pace."111
One of Ali (ra)'s grandchildren, Ibrahim bin Muhammad (ra), says that the Prophet (saas) had an easy manner of walking:
When 'Ali (ra) described Rasulullah (saas), he used to say: 'When he walked, because of the speed and force of the legs, it seemed as if he was descending from a high place'."112 
Hassan (ra) describes how:

"When he walked, he lifted his legs with vigour, leaned, slightly forward and placed his feet softly on the ground. He walked at a quick pace and took a rather long step. He did not take small steps. When he walked it seemed as if he was descending to a lower place. When he looked at something, he turned his whole body towards it. He always looked down. His blessed glance was focused more to the ground than towards the sky. His noble habit was to look at something with a slight glance. He made salaam (greeted) first to whomsoever he met."113


(Left)Painting called Lilium Auratum. 1871. (Right) The City of Fayoum by Gérome. 



The Prophet (saas)'s manner of sitting
Qaylah bint Makhramah (ra) reports:
"I saw Rasulullah (saas) in the masjid (in a very humble posture) sitting. Due to his awe-inspiring personality, I began shivering."114 
Jaabir bin Samurah (ra) says:
"I observed Rasulullah (saas) lean on a pillow, which was on his left side."115 







Who could do greater wrong than someone who invents a lie against Allah when he has been called to Islam? Allah does not guide wrongdoing people.
(Surat as-Saff: 7)



The Prophet (saas)'s way of speaking
The Prophet (saas) was a man known for his effective, wise and concise manner of speaking. His messages had a great effect on people, and everyone took great pleasure in talking with him. A number of accounts that have come down from his companions also confirm that fact. These are some of them:
"The Prophet (saas) was the greatest of the Arabs in oratory and beauty of speech. He said: 'I am the greatest orator among the Arabs'."116 


The Mosque of Sultan Hassan (right) by David Roberts.


Aisha (ra) describes the Prophet (saas)'s way of speaking thus:
"The speech of Rasulullah (saas) was not quick and continuous as that of yours. He spoke clearly, word by word."117

"They said: 'The Messenger of Allah used to talk little and every thing was expressed in this brief talk. In his speech, there was no defect of excess or brevity. The words came one after another like pearls. Whoever heard them remembered them. He was the sweetest in talk among his companions. He used to keep silent for long and not talk without necessity. He used not to talk evil words and what he talked was just."118
"He did not use ornamental words…."119 
"… His companions did never dispute before him."120 
"He used to smile much before his companions…"121 



Aisha (ra) again says:
"He spoke in such a way that the words were spaced out so that those who sat with him remembered them."122
Abdullah bin Haarith (ra) reports that:
"I have not seen anyone who makes a person more cheerful than Rasulullah (saas)."123 
Anas bin Malik (ra) tells us the following:
"Rasulullah (saas) used to mingle with us and joke."124

The Prophet (saas)'s pleasing scent
The Prophet (saas) attached great importance to cleanliness. He always smelt very fresh, clean and pleasant, and recommended that Muslims do the same. Accounts that have reached us from his companions give further details of this aspect of the Prophet (saas):
Jaabir bin Samura (ra) states:
"Whenever the Holy Prophet tread on any path, when someone passed by later, that they could recognize that the prophet had passed by there because they could smell the fragrance of his body."125
From Anas bin Malik (ra):
"I never felt a silk cloth, nor pure silk, nor any other thing softer than the palm of Rasulullah (saas). Nor did I smell any musk or any other fragrance, more sweet smelling than the fragrance of Rasullullah (saas)."126 
Anas bin Malik (r.a) reports:
"I never smelt ambergris or musk as fragrant as the fragrance of the body of Allah's Messenger (saas) and I never touched brocade or silk and found it as soft as the body of Allah's Messenger (saas)."127
In Qisas al-Anbiya, the Prophet (saas) was described in this way:
"His body was clean and his scent beautiful. Whether or not he had used scent, his skin always had a lovely scent to it. If someone shook hands or conversed with him, or showed his friendship or affection, he would smell that clean scent all day, and if he laid that sacred hand on a child's head, that child could be distinguished from other children by that clean scent."128




The Prophet (saas)'s favorite foods
"He used not to take any hot food."129
"Meat was his most favorite curry."130
"The Holy Prophet (saas), amongst all other foods, liked pumpkin."131 
"He used to eat the meat of hunted birds."132 




… they will have Gardens with rivers flowing under them. When they are given fruit there as provision, they will say, 'This is what we were given before.' But they were only given a simulation of it.

(Surat al-Baqara: 25)





"He liked dried dates among dates."133
Aisha (ra) had this to say about the food the Prophet (saas) enjoyed:
"Rasulullah (saas) loved halva and honey."134
"Among foods, he liked mutton, broth, pumpkins, sweet things, honey, dates, milk, cream, melons, grapes and cucumbers. He also liked cold water."135
She adds:
"Rasulullah (saas) ate watermelon with fresh dates."136


Garden, by Pieter Gysels (1621-1690)


"He never condemned the food. He used to eat what he liked and did not eat what he did not like."137 
"Rasulullah (saas) loved the meat of the forequarter."138 
These are some of the things the Prophet (saas) said about certain foods:
"What a nice curry vinegar is."139
"The Prophet (saas) said that mushroom is a good cure for the eyes, it also arrests paralysis."140
"Illnesses are cured by means of three things: (one of them) is a drink of honey."141
"Use olive oil as a food and ointment for it comes from a blessed tree."142



Still-life painting by Ibrahim Safi.



What the Prophet (saas) liked to drink
Aisha tells us that:
"The drink most liked by Rasulullah (saas) was that which was sweet and cold."143 
"Nabeez was prepared from dried grapes for the Prophet (saas) and dates were, also, put in it, or it was prepared from dried dates, and grapes, too, were put in it. "144
"The best of drinks to the Messenger of Allah was sweet cold drink."145 
"The Holy Prophet (saas) said; besides milk there is nothing else that serves the purpose of both milk and water."146 
This is what the Prophet (saas) had to say about milk:
"When one of you eats food, he should say: 'O Allah, bless us in it, and give us food (or nourishment) better than it.' When he is given milk to drink he should say: 'O Allah! Bless us in it and give us more of it, for no food or drink satisfies like milk'."147 


What the Prophet (saas) said about water
The Prophet (saas) took great care to distribute water, particularly on journeys. On one particular journey, for instance, he stopped somewhere and asked for water from those around him. After washing his hands and face, he drank from the water, and told his companions; "pour some of its water on your faces and chests."148
After drinking water, he prayed:
"All praise is due to Allah Who has made it delicious and sweet by His grace and has not made it either salty or unsavory."149 
On another occasion, the Prophet (saas) said:
"Water was created pure and nothing makes it impure except that which changes its color, taste and smell."150

Some of the Prophet (saas)'s finer traits
Imam Ghazzali, known as "Hujjatul Islam," collected and set out some of the Prophet (saas)'s traits as related by such great Islamic scholars as Tirmidhi, Tabarani, Muslim, Imam Ahmad, Abu Dawood and Ibn Maja:



"The Holy Prophet (saas) was the most patient among men, the bravest, the best judge, and he who pardoned most. ... he was the most charitable man. He did not pass a single night hoarding a single dirham or dinar. Whenever any excess money came to him and if he did not then get anyone to accept it as charity, he did not return home till he gave it to the poor and the needy. He did not store up for more than a year the provision of his family members which Allah was pleased to give him. He used to take one fifth of what easily came to him out of dates and wheat. What remained in excess, he used to give in charity. He used to give away in charity to him who begged of him of anything, even out of his stored up provision.
He did not take any revenge for personal wrongs but he used take it for preservation of the honor of Allah.
He used to speak the truth even though it was sometimes a cause of trouble to himself and his companions.
He was the most modest, without pride, and his tongue was most eloquent without prolongation of speech. His constitution was the most beatiful. No worldly duties could keep him busy.
He used to go even to a distant place to see the sick, loved scents and hated a stench or bad smell, sat with the poor and the destitute, ate with them, honored those possessing honor, advised them to do good and show kindness to relatives. He did not treat harshly to anybody and accepted excuses offered to him.
He accepted sports and pastimes as lawful, played with his wives and held races with them.... He did not hate the poor for their poverty nor fear the kings for their mighty power. He used to call the people, high or low towards Allah. Allah adorned him with all the qualities and good administration
At the time when the Quran was being revealed to him, he used to smile most. When something happened, he entrusted it to Allah, kept himself free from his own strength and ability and said in invocation: 'O Allah, show me truth in a true manner or give me grace to give it up. You guide to the straight path whomsoever You will.'
Allah revealed the Quran to him and through it He taught him good manners." 151 



For this We sent a Messenger to you from among you to recite Our Signs to you and purify you and teach you the Book and Wisdom and teach you things you did not know before.

(Surat al-Baqara: 151)

In the name of Allah, the most beneficient ever merciful .

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Hindu Scriptures by

Dr.Zakir Naik

Muhammad (PBUH) prophesised in Bhavishya Purana

According to Bhavishya Purana in the Prati Sarag Parv III Khand 3 Adhay 3 Shloka 5 to 8.
"A malecha (belonging to a foreign country and speaking a foreign language) spiritual teacher will appear with his companions. His name will be Mohammad. Raja (Bhoj) after giving this Maha Dev Arab (of angelic disposition) a bath in the Panchgavya and the Ganga water (i.e. purifying him of all sins) offered him the present of his sincere devotion and showing him all reverence said, "I make obeisance to thee. O ye! The pride of mankind, the dweller in Arabia, Ye have collected a great force to kill the Devil and you yourself have been protected from the malecha opponents."

The Prophecy clearly states:

The name of the Prophet as Mohammad.

He will belong to Arabia. The Sanskrit word Marusthal means a sandy track of land or a desert.

Special mention is made of the companions of the Prophet, i.e. the Sahabas. No other Prophet had as many companions as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

He is referred as the pride of mankind (Parbatis nath). The Glorious Qur’an reconfirms this

"And thou (standest) on an exalted standard of character"
[Al-Qur'an 68:4]|

"Ye have indeed in the Messenger of Allah, a beautiful pattern (of conduct)".
[Al-Qur'an 33:21]

He will kill the devil, i.e. abolish idol worship and all sorts of vices.

The Prophet will be given protection against his enemy.

Some people may argue that ‘Raja’ Bhoj mentioned in the prophecy lived in the 11th century C.E. 500 years after the advent of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and was the descendant in the 10th generation of Raja Shalivahan. These people fail to realise that there was not only one Raja of the name Bhoj. The Egyptian Monarchs were called as Pharaoh and the Roman Kings were known as Caesar, similarly the Indian Rajas were given the title of Bhoj. There were several Raja Bhoj who came before the one in 11th Century C.E.

The Prophet did not physically take a bath in the Panchgavya and the water of Ganges. Since the water of Ganges is considered holy, taking bath in the Ganges is an idiom, which means washing away sins or immunity from all sorts of sins. Here the prophecy implies that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sinless, i.e. Maasoom.

According to Bhavishya Purana in the Pratisarag Parv III Khand 3 Adhay 3 Shloka 10 to 27 Maharishi Vyas has prophesised:

"The Malecha have spoiled the well-known land of the Arabs. Arya Dharma is not to be found in the country. Before also there appeared a misguided fiend whom I had killed; he has now again appeared being sent by a powerful enemy. To show these enemies the right path and to give them guidance, the well-known Muhammad (pbuh), is busy in bringing the Pishachas to the right path. O Raja, You need not go to the land of the foolish Pishachas, you will be purified through my kindness even where you are. At night, he of the angelic disposition, the shrewd man, in the guise of Pishacha said to Raja Bhoj, "O Raja! Your Arya Dharma has been made to prevail over all religions, but according to the commandments of Ishwar Parmatma, I shall enforce the strong creed of the meat eaters. My followers will be men circumcised, without a tail (on his head), keeping beard, creating a revolution announcing the Aadhaan (the Muslim call for prayer) and will be eating all lawful things. He will eat all sorts of animals except swine. They will not seek purification from the holy shrubs, but will be purified through warfare. On account of their fighting the irreligious nations, they will be known as Musalmaans. I shall be the originator of this religion of the meat-eating nations."

The Prophecy states that:

The evil doers have corrupted the Arab land.

Arya Dharma is not found in that land.

The Indian Raja need not go the Arab land since his purification will take place in India after the musalmaan will arrive in India.

The coming Prophet will attest the truth of the Aryan faith, i.e. Monotheism and will reform the misguided people.

The Prophet’s followers will be circumcised. They will be without a tail on the head and bear a beard and will create a great revolution.

They will announce the Aadhaan, i.e. ‘the Muslim call for prayer’.

He will only eat lawful things and animals but will not eat pork. The Qur’an confirms this in no less than 4 different places:

In Surah Al-Baqarah chapter 2 verse 173
In Surah Al-Maidah chapter 5 verse 3
In Surah Al-Anam chapter 6 verse 145
In Surah Al-Nahl chapter 16 verse 115

"Forbidden to you for food are dead meat, blood, flesh of swine, and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah".

They will not purify with grass like the Hindus but by means of sword they will fight their irreligious people.

They will be called musalmaan.

They will be a meat-eating nation.

The eating of herbivorous animals is confirmed by the Qur’an in Surah Maidah, chapter 5 verse 1 and in Surah Muminun chapter 23 verse 21

According to Bhavishya Purana, Parv - III Khand 1 Adhay 3 Shloka 21-23:

"Corruption and persecution are found in seven sacred cities of Kashi, etc. India is inhabited by Rakshas, Shabor, Bhil and other foolish people. In the land of Malechhas, the followers of the Malechha dharma (Islam) are wise and brave people. All good qualities are found in Musalmaans and all sorts of vices have accumulated in the land of the Aryas. Islam will rule in India and its islands. Having known these facts, O Muni, glorify the name of thy lord".

The Qur’an confirms this in Surah Taubah chapter 9 verse 33 and in Surah Al Saff chapter 61 verse 9:

"It is He who hath sent His Messenger with Guidance and the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion, even though the Pagans may detest (it)".

A similar message is given in Surah Fatah chapter 48 verses 28 ending with, "and enough is Allah as a witness".


II Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Prophesised in Atharvaveda

In the 20th book of Atharvaveda Hymn 127 Some Suktas (chapters) are known as Kuntap Sukta. Kuntap means the consumer of misery and troubles. Thus meaning the message of peace and safety and if translated in Arabic means Islam.

Kuntap also means hidden glands in the abdomen. These mantras are called so probably because their true meaning was hidden and was to be revealed in future. Its hidden meaning is also connected with the navel or the middle point of this earth. Makkah is called the Ummul Qur’a the mother of the towns or the naval of the earth. In many revealed books it was the first house of Divine worship where God Almighty gave spiritual nourishment to the world. The Qur’an says in Surah Ali-Imran chapter 3, verse 96:

"The first house (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakkah (Makkah) full of blessings and of guidance and for all kinds of beings". Thus Kuntap stands for Makkah or Bakkah.

Several people have translated these Kuntap Suktas like M. Bloomfield, Prof. Ralph Griffith, Pandit Rajaram, Pandit Khem Karan, etc.

The main points mentioned in the Kuntap Suktas i.e. in Atharvaveda book 20 Hymn 127 verses 1-13 are:

Mantra 1
He is Narashansah or the praised one (Muhammad). He is Kaurama: the prince of peace or the emigrant, who is safe, even amongst a host of 60,090 enemies.

Mantra 2
He is a camel-riding Rishi, whose chariot touches the heaven.

Mantra 3
He is Mamah Rishi who is given a hundred gold coins, ten chaplets (necklaces), three hundred good steeds and ten thousand cows.

Mantra 4
Vachyesv rebh. ‘Oh! ye who glorifies’.

The Sanskrit word Narashansah means ‘the praised one’, which is the literal translation of the Arabic word Muhammad (PBUH).

The Sanskrit word Kaurama means ‘one who spreads and promotes peace’. The holy Prophet was the ‘Prince of Peace’ and he preached equality of human kind and universal brotherhood. Kaurama also means an emigrant. The Prophet migrated from Makkah to Madinah and was thus also an Emigrant.

He will be protected from 60,090 enemies, which was the population of Makkah. The Prophet would ride a camel. This clearly indicates that it cannot be an Indian Rishi, since it is forbidden for a Brahman to ride a camel according to the Sacred Books of the East, volume 25, Laws of Manu pg. 472. According to Manu Smirti chapter 11 verse 202, "A Brahman is prohibited from riding a camel or an ass and to bathe naked. He should purify himself by suppressing his breath".

This mantra gave the Rishi's name as Mamah. No rishi in India or another Prophet had this name Mamah which is derived from Mah which means to esteem highly, or to revere, to exalt, etc. Some Sanskrit books give the Prophet’s name as ‘Mohammad’, but this word according to Sanskrit grammar can also be used in the bad sense. It is incorrect to apply grammar to an Arabic word. Actually shas the same meaning and somewhat similar pronunciation as the word Muhammad (PBUH).

He is given 100 gold coins, which refers to the believers and the earlier companions of the Prophet during his turbulent Makkan life. Later on due to persecution they migrated from Makkah to Abysinia. Later when Prophet migrated to Madinah all of them joined him in Madinah.

The 10 chaplets or necklaces were the 10 best companions of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) known as Ashra-Mubbashshira (10 bestowed with good news). These were foretold in this world of their salvation in the hereafter i.e. they were given the good news of entering paradise by the Prophet’s own lips and after naming each one he said "in Paradise". They were Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Ali, Talha, Zubair, Abdur Rahman Ibn Auf, Saad bin Abi Waqqas, Saad bin Zaid and Abu Ubaidah (May Allah be well-pleased with all of them).

The Sanskrit word Go is derived from Gaw which means ‘to go to war’. A cow is also called Go and is a symbol of war as well as peace. The 10,000 cows refer to the 10,000 companions who accompanied the Prophet (PBUH) when he entered Makkah during Fateh Makkah which was a unique victory in the history of mankind in which there was no blood shed. The 10,000 companions were pious and compassionate like cows and were at the same time strong and fierce and are described in the Holy Quran in Surah Fatah:
"Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; and those who are with him are strong against unbelievers, (but) compassionate amongst each other."
[Al-Qur'an 48:29]

This mantra calls the Prophet as Rebh which means one who praises, which when translated into Arabic is Ahmed, which is another name for the Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Battle of the Allies described in the Vedas.

It is mentioned in Atharvaveda Book XX Hymn 21 verse 6, "Lord of the truthful! These liberators drink these feats of bravery and the inspiring songs gladdened thee in the field of battle. When thou renders vanquished without fight the ten thousand opponents of the praying one, the adoring one."

This Prophecy of the Veda describes the well-known battle of Ahzab or the battle of the Allies during the time of Prophet Muhammed. The Prophet was victorious without an actual conflict which is mentioned in the Qur’an in Surah Ahzab:

"When the believers saw the confederate forces they said, "This is what Allah and His Messenger had promised us and Allah and His Messenger told us what was true." And it only added to their faith and their zeal in obedience."
[Al-Qur'an 33:22]

The Sanskrit word karo in the Mantra means the ‘praying one’ which when translated into Arabic means ‘Ahmed’, the second name of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

The 10,000 opponents mentioned in the Mantra were the enemies of the Prophet and the Muslims were only 3000 in number.

The last words of the Mantra aprati ni bashayah means the defeat was given to the enemies without an actual fight.

The enemies’ defeat in the conquest of Makkah is mentioned in Atharvaveda book 20 Hymn 21 verse no 9:

"You have O Indra, overthrown 20 kings and 60,099 men with an outstripping Chariot wheel who came to fight the praised one or far famed (Muhammad) orphan."

The population of Makkah at the time of Prophet’s advent was nearly 60,000

There were several clans in Makkah each having its own chief. Totally there were about 20 chiefs to rule the population of Makkah.

An Abandhu meaning a helpless man who was far-famed and ‘praised one’. Muhammad (PBUH) overcame his enemies with the help of God.


III Muhammad (PBUH) prophesised in the Rigveda

A similar prophecy is also found in Rigveda Book I, Hymn 53 verse 9:

The Sanskrit word used is Sushrama, which means praiseworthy or well praised which in Arabic means Muhammad (PBUH).


IV Muhummad (PBUH) is also prophesised in the Samveda

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is also prophesised in the Samveda Book II Hymn 6 verse 8:

"Ahmed acquired from his Lord the knowledge of eternal law. I received light from him just as from the sun." The Prophecy confirms:

The name of the Prophet as Ahmed since Ahmed is an Arabic name. Many translators misunderstood it to be Ahm at hi and translated the mantra as "I alone have acquired the real wisdom of my father".

Prophet was given eternal law, i.e. the Shariah.

The Rishi was enlightened by the Shariah of Prophet Muhammad. The Qur’an says in Surah Saba chapter 34 verse 28

"We have not sent thee but as a universal (Messenger) to men, giving them glad tidings and warning them (against sin), but most men understand not."
[Al-Qur'an 34:28]

The Prophet Muhammad's examplory life.

The Prophet Muhammad's examplory life

In the name of Allah, the most beneficient ever merciful . Every moment of the Prophet (saas)'s life is a splendid example for the faithful to follow. With his conversations with the faithful, the way he addressed them, his sense of humour, his affection for and interest in children, the just way he treated women and his affection and concern, he was a model protector, both for his family and for all Muslims. That, by his smiling face, joyful countenance, and his consideration and affection for the faithful, he is an important example of proper morality and an ideal model of humanity. This chapter will comprise examples of the Prophet (saas)'s life which was so pleasing to Allah. The Prophet (saas) smiled often, and advised others to be the same Although the Prophet (saas) bore a heavy responsibility, and despite all the difficulties he faced, he was a most humble and peaceful man, submissive to Allah. He lived the joy and ardour of belief every moment of his life. Thanks to that joy of belief and his high morality, he was always smiling and tenderhearted. His companions describe his state of being: Ali (ra): "His smiling face and kind treatment of everyone made him literally a father to the people. Everyone was equal in his sight." "He was always cheerful, gentle and mild." "He was the softest and most kind of all people..." The Prophet (saas) also advised his companions to smile, and said: "Don't entertain the people with your wealth, but entertain them with smiling face and good conduct." "Allah loves the simple and those having smiling countenance." The Prophet (saas)'s relations and conversations with his companions The Prophet (saas) took the greatest interest in the Muslims around him. He kept a close eye on the faith, behavior, cleanliness, happiness and health of each one of them. He noticed what each one lacked and needed, and ensured that they were provided for. In every conversation he had with them, he was pleasant towards them and won their love. When his companions left him, they would be full of joy and contentment. Ali (ra), one of the closest of those to him, describes his relations with his companions and the atmosphere during their talks: "His hand of charity was spread to its utmost and his tongue was the most truthful. His conduct was the most modest. Awe struck one who saw him first. Whoever mixed with him loved him. One who praised him said: I have never seen like him before and after him. Once a man begged something of the Prophet (saas) and it was given to him." "He would take an interest in everyone he sat with, and gave no impression of treating anyone differently. He was always patient with those sitting with him or keeping him standing, and would never leave that person until that person moved away from him." "He missed his companions, and asked after them (when he could not see them). He would ask how people were, and how their businesses were faring. He would call beautiful things beautiful, and ugly things ugly." "He was always in favor of honest men, and would receive no-one else. They would come to his side for a short time, and when they left, they would leave as their hearts satisfied. They left his side as living proofs and guides." "He was patient in the face of extreme or illogical behavior from strangers. They would sometimes grow angry, and he would calm them, saying, 'Guide them when you see anyone like that.' "He would never interrupt, but would always wait for people to finish." "A Messenger has come to you from among yourselves. Your suffering is distressing to him; he is deeply concerned for you; he is gentle and merciful to the believers."(Surat at-Tawba: 128) "… He always spoke words that would cause people to love another and come together. He would never frighten or chase them away. He attached great importance to the leaders of all tribes, and was hospitable towards them…" His grandson Hassan (ra) has this to say about the Prophet (saas): "His looks were very meaningful … He spoke briefly and to the point. There was nothing unnecessary in his words, and nothing lacking." "He spoke in the same way to leading notables or ordinary people. He concealed nothing from them..." This is how Abu Zar (ra) describes the Prophet (saas)'s most affectionateness towards his companions: "I came to him (the Prophet (saas)) and found him sitting on a cot. He got up from it and embraced me. This shows that embracing is good." Abu Huraira (ra) describes the Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s consideration and humaneness: "The Prophet (saas) did not withdraw his hand from another till the latter withdrew his own hand." The Prophet (saas) also took the greatest interest in his companions' health. He advised the thin among them to put on weight, and the overweight among them to go on a diet and be careful what they ate. In some cases of sickness, he would advise his companions to take a drink made out of honey. Abu Huraira (ra) apparently fainted one day, and the Prophet (saas) lifted him to his feet, took him home, and gave him some milk to drink when he realized he was hungry. The Prophet (saas) would laugh and joke with his companions It appears from what has come down from his companions that the Prophet (saas) would frequently joke with his family and companions, as well as laugh at their jokes, and give them friendly names or nicknames. As always, however, the Prophet (saas) also behaved very prudently, considerately and in accordance with the demands of good conscience when it came to joking. We can summarise the advice the Prophet (saas) gave his companions about joking in this way: "I will joke, but I only speak the truth." "It is not lawful for a Muslim to frighten his brother." "Do not dispute with your brother, not joke with him in mocking terms." "Shame on him who speaks lies in order to entertain others." "One cannot be a good believer until he ceases to tell lies, even in jest, and to dispute, even if he is in the right." "Do not speak lies, even in jest." The Prophet (saas)'s advice on the subject of love One of the most important subjects that The Prophet (saas) dwelt on was that the believers should love one another sincerely and with no thought of personal interests, and that they should not harbour thoughts of hatred, anger or jealousy for one another. The Prophet (saas) was both the best possible example to the believers, but also frequently gave them advice on the subject. In the Qur'an, Allah says of the matter: That is the good news which Allah gives to His servants who believe and do right actions. Say: "I do not ask you for any wage for this-except for you to love your near of kin. If anyone does a good action, We will increase the good of it for him. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Ever-Thankful." (Surat ash-Shura: 23) These are some of the hadiths that touch on the Prophet (saas)'s qualities of love, friendship and brotherhood: "A believer loves for others what he loves for himself." "Allah's Apostle (saas) used to accept gifts and used to give something in return." "He who is presented with a flower of sweet basil should not reject it, because it is light in weight and pleasant in odour." "Don't hate one another, don't envy one another don't sell over the sale to another, don't dispute with one another and don't back-bite one another. The servants of Allah are brethren to one another." "The habits of earlier generations have attacked you-envy and hatred. Hatred is shaving. You will not enter Paradise till you believe. You will not believe till you love one another. Shall I not inform you what thing will establish you on it? Spread peace among you." The Prophet (saas)'s interest in and love for children The Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s compassion, mercifulness and consideration for the believers can also be seen in his attitude towards children. The Prophet (saas) took a close interest in his own children and grandchildren, as in those of his companions. In regards to them, he made suggestions about everything, from their birth to choosing names for them, from their health to their education, from their clothes to the games they played, all of which he played an active role in. For example, shortly before his daughter Fatimah gave birth to his two grandchildren, he told her: "When there is a birth, do nothing to the child without informing me." After the babies had been born he instructed on how they were to be fed, looked after and protected. The Prophet (saas) also prayed for new-born babies, for his children and grandchildren, and for the children of his companions. As he held them on his knee or watched them playing, he would ask Allah to give them long and prosperous lives, as well as wisdom and faith. At every opportunity he would pray for his grandchildren Hassan and Hussein, saying that the prayer he used was the same as that Abraham used for Isaac and Ismail. Ibn Abbas (ra), one of his companions, relates how when he was a child, the Prophet (saas) said, "Allah, teach him wisdom." During the childhood of Anas bin Malik, another of his companions, he prayed to Allah to give him much wealth, many children and a long life, and that these would be auspicious for him. The Prophet (saas) attached great importance to children's play, and sometimes even joined in with them. He recommended parents to play with their children, saying, "Let he who has a child be as a child with him."180 He suggested that children play such games and sports as swimming, running and wrestling, and encouraged his own grandchildren and the children of those around him to do so. Many of his companions have described how the Prophet (saas) loved children, and took an interest in and played with them. Here are a number of examples: Anas bin Malik (r.a): "The Prophet was one of the foremost people when it came to playing and joking with children." Al-Bara 'ibn Azib (r.a): "I saw Hassan (ra) upon the shoulders of Allah's Messenger." Anas bin Malik (ra) said: "The Prophet (saas) kissed and smelled (his son) Ibrahim." Abu Huraira (ra) describes the Prophet (saas)'s love of children and how he used to play with them: "I went along with Allah's Messenger (saas) at a time during the day but he did not talk to me and I did not talk to him until he reached Bazar of Banu Qunaiqa. He came back to the tent of Fatima and said: Is the little chap (meaning Hassan) there? We were under the impression that his mother had detained him in order to bathe him and dress him and garland him with sweet garland. Not much time had passed that he (Hassan) came running until both of them embraced each other, thereupon Allah's Messenger (saas) said: O Allah, I love him; love him and love one who loves him (Hassan)..." According to Anas bin Malik (ra), the Prophet (saas) used to often call his grandchildren, Hassan and Hussein, over to him and cuddle them.185 Ibnu Rebi'ati'ibni Haris (ra) says: "My father sent al-Fadl the son of Abbas and me to the Prophet (saas). When we came into his presence, he sat us down on his right and left, and embraced us more strongly than we had ever seen before." "The Prophet (saas) would often caress the heads of children and pray for them. For example, Yusuf 'Ibn Abdullah 'Ibn Selam (ra) says the Prophet (saas) would often call him by name and pat his head. Amr Ibnu Hureys (ra) describes how his mother took him into the presence of the Prophet (saas), and how the latter would pat his head and pray that he would always receive his daily bread. When Abdullah Ibnu Utbe (ra) was five or six, he also recalls the Prophet (saas) patting his head and praying he would have many descendants and live in plenty." Abu Huraira (ra) provides the following examples of the Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s interest in and love for children: "When the people saw the first fruit (of the season) they brought it to Allah's Apostle (saas). When he received it he said: "O Allah, bless us in our fruits; and bless us in our city; and bless us in our sa's (a measurement unit) and bless us in our mudd (a measurement unit). He would then call to him the youngest child and give him those fruits." "Whenever he came back from a journey, the children of his household would be taken out to meet him." He (saas) used to hug them close to him, as 'Abd-Allah ibn Jafar (ra) said: "Whenever the Prophet (saas) came back from a journey, we would be taken out to meet him. One day we met him, Hassan, Hussein and I. He carried one of us in front of him, and another on his back, until we entered Madina." 'Once the Prophet (saas) went out during the day… then he sat in the compound of Fatima's house and asked about the small boy (his grandson Hassan). After a while the boy came out running and the Prophet (saas) embraced and kissed him'." Jaabir bin Samurah (ra) has this to say on the subject: "I prayed along with Allah's Messenger (saas) the first prayer. He then went to his family and I also went along with him when he met some children (on the way). He began to pat the cheeks of each one of them. He also patted my cheek and I experienced a coolness or a fragrance of his hand as if it had been brought out from the scent bag of a perfumer." The Prophet Muhammad (saas) was sent at a time when female babies were still killed at birth, but stressed that girls should not be discriminated against in favor of boys, and that it was a sin to kill them. By demonstrating equal love for and interest in both, he set an excellent example to the whole of the society. The followoing is an example of what the Prophet (saas) said about female children: "A daughter is a lovely child; affectionate, eager to help, mild and full of sacred feelings of motherhood." The Prophet (saas) demonstrated his love in word and deed. He would tell children how much he loved them. The Prophet (saas) never favored one child over another. He showed the same affection and compassion to the children of the faithful that he did to his own children and grandchildren. When Halid bin Said (ra) visited the Prophet (saas), there was a little girl by his side. The Prophet (saas) showed her special affection because she had been born in Abyssinia. On one occasion, the Prophet (saas) had a piece of embroidered fabric in his hands. He called the girl over and gave it to her, making her very happy. Jemre (ra) was a small child at the time. Her father would bring her into the presence of the Prophet (saas) and ask for him to pray to Allah to make her prosperous. The Prophet (saas) took Jemre (ra) in his lap, placed his hand on her head, and prayed. Usama (ra), the son of the Prophet (saas)'s assistant Zaid (ra), had this recollection of the Prophet (saas): "Allah's Apostle (saas) used to put me on (one of) his thighs and Al-Hassan bin 'Ali on his other thigh, and then embraced us and said: 'O Allah! Please be Merciful to them, as I am merciful to them'." Some people were unable to understand why the Prophet (saas) played with children and took such an interest in them. On one accasion, Akra bin Habis (ra) saw the Prophet (saas) kissing Hassan (ra), and said: " 'I have ten children and have never kissed one of them'." The Prophet (saas) looked at him and said, 'Those who show no mercy will be shown no mercy'." The Prophet (saas)'s venerable son Ibrahim (ra) would frequently visit the house of his wet nurse, show her love and affection, and stroke her head. Anas bin Malik (ra), the servant of the Prophet (saas), has another recollection: "I never saw anyone who was more compassionate towards children than the Messenger of Allah (saas). His son Ibrahim was in the care of a wet-nurse in the hills around Madinah. He would go there, and we would go with him, and he would enter the house, pick up his son and kiss him, then come back." Our Prophet (saas) also warned the faithful to treat their children justly, and said: "Fear Allah and treat your children with equal justice." The Prophet (saas) also placed great emphasis on children's education and their being brought up with a proper morality, and showed the way by giving a great deal of advice on the matter. Some of the things he had to say are as follows: "The best things that a man leaves behind after his death are a virtuous child who invokes Allah for him, a perpetual charity, the reward of which reaches him, and a beneficial knowledge which remains useful after him." "One of a child's duties to his father is to make his name and behavior fitting." "Be hospitable to your children and raise them to be well-behaved ..." As in all subjects, the Prophet Muhammad (saas) was an excellent model to the faithful as far as taking an interest in children and showing them love and affection. He communicated the importance of showing love to children in the words, "He does not belong to us who does not show mercy to our young ones...." The Prophet (saas)'s wives are the mothers of the believers The Prophet (saas)'s wives are the mothers of all believers, models for all Muslim women, possessed of true godliness. There is a considerable amount of information about the behavior and faith of the Prophet (saas)'s wives, the way they cared for him, their own wisdom and their excellent morality, to be found in the Qur'an, the hadiths, and accounts about the life of the Prophet (saas). One of the facts about the Prophet (saas)'s wives in the Qur'an is that they are the mothers of all the believers: "The Prophet (saas) has closer ties to the believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers... "(Surat al-Ahzab: 6) In another verse, Allah forbids the believers to marry his wives after he has passed on: "… It is not right for you to cause annoyance to the Messenger of Allah or ever to marry his wives after him. To do that would be a dreadful thing in Allah's sight. "(Surat al-Ahzab: 53) Other verses of the Qur'an reveal that the wives of the Prophet (saas) are not like other women, and describe how they ought to behave. The description reads: "Wives of the Prophet! You are not like other women provided you heed Allah. Do not be too soft-spoken in your speech lest someone with sickness in his heart becomes desirous. Speak correct and courteous words. Remain in your houses and do not display your beauty as it was previously displayed in the Time of Ignorance. Establish prayer [salat] and pay welfare tax [zakat] and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah desires to remove all impurity from you, People of the House, and to purify you completely. And remember the Signs of Allah and the wise words which are recited in your rooms. Allah is All-Pervading, All-Aware."(Surat al-Ahzab: 32-33) The behavior of the godly wives of the Prophet (saas), as revealed in these verses, in other words, their goodwill, intelligence and conscientiousness, their dignified behavior, their modesty, the care they took over their religious observances, and their obedience of the Prophet (saas), and their knowledge of the Qur'an and the sayings of the Prophet (saas), should set an example for all Muslim women. Allah has revealed in the Qur'an that the wives of the Prophet (saas) will be doubly rewarded: "Wives of the Prophet! If any of you commits an obvious act of indecency she will receive double the punishment. That is an easy matter for Allah. But those of you who are obedient to Allah and His Messenger and act rightly will be given their reward twice over; and We have prepared generous provision for them. "(Surat al-Ahzab: 30-31) "Nor does he speak from whim. It is nothing but Revelation revealed." (Surat an-Najm: 3-4) "Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are fierce to the disbelievers, merciful to one another…"(Surat al-Fath: 29) The first of the wives of the Prophet (saas) was Khadija (ra). She was also one of the very first Muslims. When the Prophet (saas) received his first revelation he immediately told her of it. Khadija (ra) is known for her intelligence, perceptiveness, foresight and wisdom, and she immediately believed, offering the Prophet (saas) enormous support in the days that followed and expending great physical and spiritual effort to help spread the morality of the Qur'an. Other wives of the Prophet (saas), such as Sauda, Aisha, Hafsah, Umm Habiba, Umm Salama, Safia, Moyomuna, Zainab bint Jahsh, Juwairya (ra) are also mentioned for their self-sacrifice, patience, and loyalty to the Prophet (saas), and were also excellent role models for the faithful. The Prophet (saas) displayed great interest in his wives as well as children, and was a means whereby their faith, health, happiness and knowledge were all increased. It is reported that the Prophet (saas) would play with his wives and run races with them. His companions described the Prophet (saas)'s great interest in his wives in the words, " The Prophet (saas) used to joke with his wives..." According to Aisha (ra), "I have never seen a man who was more compassionate to his family members than Muhammad (saas)." Another characteristic the Prophet (saas) is known to have possessed is his great justice towards his wives. It is reported that he divided his visits between them equally. Anas bin Malik (ra) says: "Allah's Apostle (saas) had nine wives. So when he divided (his stay) with them, the turn of the first wife only came on the ninth (day). They (all the wives) used to gather every night in the house of the one where he had to come (and stay that night)." Many of the words of the Prophet (saas) make it clear just how valuable devout women are. For instance, one of his sayings was as follows: "The whole world is a provision, and the best object of benefit of the world is the pious woman." The Prophet (saas) also told his companions how they should treat their own wives: "The most perfect believer in faith is one who is the best of them in good conduct. The best of you is one who treats best with his wife among you." "The best of you, is the one who is best to his wives, and I am the best of you toward my wives." "This is news of the Unseen which We reveal to you. You were not with them when they decided what to do and devised their scheme." (Surah Yusuf: 102)

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The Prophet Muhammad's Life

In the name of Allah, the most beneficient ever merciful .

Every moment of the Prophet (saas)'s life is a splendid example for the faithful to follow. With his conversations with the faithful, the way he addressed them, his sense of humour, his affection for and interest in children, the just way he treated women and his affection and concern, he was a model protector, both for his family and for all Muslims. That, by his smiling face, joyful countenance, and his consideration and affection for the faithful, he is an important example of proper morality and an ideal model of humanity. This chapter will comprise examples of the Prophet (saas)'s life which was so pleasing to Allah.

The Prophet (saas) smiled often, and advised others to be the same

Although the Prophet (saas) bore a heavy responsibility, and despite all the difficulties he faced, he was a most humble and peaceful man, submissive to Allah. He lived the joy and ardour of belief every moment of his life. Thanks to that joy of belief and his high morality, he was always smiling and tenderhearted. His companions describe his state of being:

Ali (ra): "His smiling face and kind treatment of everyone made him literally a father to the people. Everyone was equal in his sight."

"He was always cheerful, gentle and mild."

"He was the softest and most kind of all people..."

The Prophet (saas) also advised his companions to smile, and said:

"Don't entertain the people with your wealth, but entertain them with smiling face and good conduct."

"Allah loves the simple and those having smiling countenance."

The Prophet (saas)'s relations and conversations
with his companions

The Prophet (saas) took the greatest interest in the Muslims around him. He kept a close eye on the faith, behavior, cleanliness, happiness and health of each one of them. He noticed what each one lacked and needed, and ensured that they were provided for. In every conversation he had with them, he was pleasant towards them and won their love. When his companions left him, they would be full of joy and contentment.

Ali (ra), one of the closest of those to him, describes his relations with his companions and the atmosphere during their talks:

"His hand of charity was spread to its utmost and his tongue was the most truthful. His conduct was the most modest. Awe struck one who saw him first. Whoever mixed with him loved him. One who praised him said: I have never seen like him before and after him. Once a man begged something of the Prophet (saas) and it was given to him."

"He would take an interest in everyone he sat with, and gave no impression of treating anyone differently. He was always patient with those sitting with him or keeping him standing, and would never leave that person until that person moved away from him."

"He missed his companions, and asked after them (when he could not see them). He would ask how people were, and how their businesses were faring. He would call beautiful things beautiful, and ugly things ugly."

"He was always in favor of honest men, and would receive no-one else. They would come to his side for a short time, and when they left, they would leave as their hearts satisfied. They left his side as living proofs and guides."

"He was patient in the face of extreme or illogical behavior from strangers. They would sometimes grow angry, and he would calm them, saying, 'Guide them when you see anyone like that.'

"He would never interrupt, but would always wait for people to finish."

"A Messenger has come to you from among yourselves. Your suffering is distressing to him; he is deeply concerned for you; he is gentle and merciful to the believers."(Surat at-Tawba: 128)

"… He always spoke words that would cause people to love another and come together. He would never frighten or chase them away. He attached great importance to the leaders of all tribes, and was hospitable towards them…"

His grandson Hassan (ra) has this to say about the Prophet (saas):

"His looks were very meaningful … He spoke briefly and to the point. There was nothing unnecessary in his words, and nothing lacking."

"He spoke in the same way to leading notables or ordinary people. He concealed nothing from them..."

This is how Abu Zar (ra) describes the Prophet (saas)'s most affectionateness towards his companions:

"I came to him (the Prophet (saas)) and found him sitting on a cot. He got up from it and embraced me. This shows that embracing is good."

Abu Huraira (ra) describes the Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s consideration and humaneness:

"The Prophet (saas) did not withdraw his hand from another till the latter withdrew his own hand."

The Prophet (saas) also took the greatest interest in his companions' health. He advised the thin among them to put on weight, and the overweight among them to go on a diet and be careful what they ate.

In some cases of sickness, he would advise his companions to take a drink made out of honey.

Abu Huraira (ra) apparently fainted one day, and the Prophet (saas) lifted him to his feet, took him home, and gave him some milk to drink when he realized he was hungry.

The Prophet (saas) would laugh and joke with his companions

It appears from what has come down from his companions that the Prophet (saas) would frequently joke with his family and companions, as well as laugh at their jokes, and give them friendly names or nicknames. As always, however, the Prophet (saas) also behaved very prudently, considerately and in accordance with the demands of good conscience when it came to joking. We can summarise the advice the Prophet (saas) gave his companions about joking in this way:

"I will joke, but I only speak the truth."

"It is not lawful for a Muslim to frighten his brother."

"Do not dispute with your brother, not joke with him in mocking terms."

"Shame on him who speaks lies in order to entertain others."

"One cannot be a good believer until he ceases to tell lies, even in jest, and to dispute, even if he is in the right."

"Do not speak lies, even in jest."

The Prophet (saas)'s advice on the subject of love

One of the most important subjects that The Prophet (saas) dwelt on was that the believers should love one another sincerely and with no thought of personal interests, and that they should not harbour thoughts of hatred, anger or jealousy for one another. The Prophet (saas) was both the best possible example to the believers, but also frequently gave them advice on the subject.

In the Qur'an, Allah says of the matter:

That is the good news which Allah gives to His servants who believe and do right actions. Say: "I do not ask you for any wage for this-except for you to love your near of kin. If anyone does a good action, We will increase the good of it for him. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Ever-Thankful." (Surat ash-Shura: 23)

These are some of the hadiths that touch on the Prophet (saas)'s qualities of love, friendship and brotherhood:

"A believer loves for others what he loves for himself."

"Allah's Apostle (saas) used to accept gifts and used to give something in return."

"He who is presented with a flower of sweet basil should not reject it, because it is light in weight and pleasant in odour."

"Don't hate one another, don't envy one another don't sell over the sale to another, don't dispute with one another and don't back-bite one another. The servants of Allah are brethren to one another."

"The habits of earlier generations have attacked you-envy and hatred. Hatred is shaving. You will not enter Paradise till you believe. You will not believe till you love one another. Shall I not inform you what thing will establish you on it? Spread peace among you."

The Prophet (saas)'s interest in and love for children

The Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s compassion, mercifulness and consideration for the believers can also be seen in his attitude towards children. The Prophet (saas) took a close interest in his own children and grandchildren, as in those of his companions. In regards to them, he made suggestions about everything, from their birth to choosing names for them, from their health to their education, from their clothes to the games they played, all of which he played an active role in.

For example, shortly before his daughter Fatimah gave birth to his two grandchildren, he told her: "When there is a birth, do nothing to the child without informing me."

After the babies had been born he instructed on how they were to be fed, looked after and protected.

The Prophet (saas) also prayed for new-born babies, for his children and grandchildren, and for the children of his companions. As he held them on his knee or watched them playing, he would ask Allah to give them long and prosperous lives, as well as wisdom and faith. At every opportunity he would pray for his grandchildren Hassan and Hussein, saying that the prayer he used was the same as that Abraham used for Isaac and Ismail.

Ibn Abbas (ra), one of his companions, relates how when he was a child, the Prophet (saas) said, "Allah, teach him wisdom." During the childhood of Anas bin Malik, another of his companions, he prayed to Allah to give him much wealth, many children and a long life, and that these would be auspicious for him.

The Prophet (saas) attached great importance to children's play, and sometimes even joined in with them. He recommended parents to play with their children, saying, "Let he who has a child be as a child with him."180 He suggested that children play such games and sports as swimming, running and wrestling, and encouraged his own grandchildren and the children of those around him to do so.

Many of his companions have described how the Prophet (saas) loved children, and took an interest in and played with them. Here are a number of examples:

Anas bin Malik (r.a):

"The Prophet was one of the foremost people when it came to playing and joking with children."

Al-Bara 'ibn Azib (r.a):

"I saw Hassan (ra) upon the shoulders of Allah's Messenger."

Anas bin Malik (ra) said:

"The Prophet (saas) kissed and smelled (his son) Ibrahim."

Abu Huraira (ra) describes the Prophet (saas)'s love of children and how he used to play with them:

"I went along with Allah's Messenger (saas) at a time during the day but he did not talk to me and I did not talk to him until he reached Bazar of Banu Qunaiqa. He came back to the tent of Fatima and said: Is the little chap (meaning Hassan) there? We were under the impression that his mother had detained him in order to bathe him and dress him and garland him with sweet garland. Not much time had passed that he (Hassan) came running until both of them embraced each other, thereupon Allah's Messenger (saas) said: O Allah, I love him; love him and love one who loves him (Hassan)..."

According to Anas bin Malik (ra), the Prophet (saas) used to often call his grandchildren, Hassan and Hussein, over to him and cuddle them.185

Ibnu Rebi'ati'ibni Haris (ra) says:

"My father sent al-Fadl the son of Abbas and me to the Prophet (saas). When we came into his presence, he sat us down on his right and left, and embraced us more strongly than we had ever seen before."

"The Prophet (saas) would often caress the heads of children and pray for them. For example, Yusuf 'Ibn Abdullah 'Ibn Selam (ra) says the Prophet (saas) would often call him by name and pat his head. Amr Ibnu Hureys (ra) describes how his mother took him into the presence of the Prophet (saas), and how the latter would pat his head and pray that he would always receive his daily bread. When Abdullah Ibnu Utbe (ra) was five or six, he also recalls the Prophet (saas) patting his head and praying he would have many descendants and live in plenty."

Abu Huraira (ra) provides the following examples of the Prophet Muhammad (saas)'s interest in and love for children:

"When the people saw the first fruit (of the season) they brought it to Allah's Apostle (saas). When he received it he said: "O Allah, bless us in our fruits; and bless us in our city; and bless us in our sa's (a measurement unit) and bless us in our mudd (a measurement unit). He would then call to him the youngest child and give him those fruits."

"Whenever he came back from a journey, the children of his household would be taken out to meet him." He (saas) used to hug them close to him, as 'Abd-Allah ibn Jafar (ra) said:

"Whenever the Prophet (saas) came back from a journey, we would be taken out to meet him. One day we met him, Hassan, Hussein and I. He carried one of us in front of him, and another on his back, until we entered Madina."

'Once the Prophet (saas) went out during the day… then he sat in the compound of Fatima's house and asked about the small boy (his grandson Hassan). After a while the boy came out running and the Prophet (saas) embraced and kissed him'."

Jaabir bin Samurah (ra) has this to say on the subject:

"I prayed along with Allah's Messenger (saas) the first prayer. He then went to his family and I also went along with him when he met some children (on the way). He began to pat the cheeks of each one of them. He also patted my cheek and I experienced a coolness or a fragrance of his hand as if it had been brought out from the scent bag of a perfumer."

The Prophet Muhammad (saas) was sent at a time when female babies were still killed at birth, but stressed that girls should not be discriminated against in favor of boys, and that it was a sin to kill them. By demonstrating equal love for and interest in both, he set an excellent example to the whole of the society. The followoing is an example of what the Prophet (saas) said about female children:

"A daughter is a lovely child; affectionate, eager to help, mild and full of sacred feelings of motherhood."

The Prophet (saas) demonstrated his love in word and deed. He would tell children how much he loved them.

The Prophet (saas) never favored one child over another. He showed the same affection and compassion to the children of the faithful that he did to his own children and grandchildren. When Halid bin Said (ra) visited the Prophet (saas), there was a little girl by his side. The Prophet (saas) showed her special affection because she had been born in Abyssinia. On one occasion, the Prophet (saas) had a piece of embroidered fabric in his hands. He called the girl over and gave it to her, making her very happy.

Jemre (ra) was a small child at the time. Her father would bring her into the presence of the Prophet (saas) and ask for him to pray to Allah to make her prosperous. The Prophet (saas) took Jemre (ra) in his lap, placed his hand on her head, and prayed.

Usama (ra), the son of the Prophet (saas)'s assistant Zaid (ra), had this recollection of the Prophet (saas):

"Allah's Apostle (saas) used to put me on (one of) his thighs and Al-Hassan bin 'Ali on his other thigh, and then embraced us and said: 'O Allah! Please be Merciful to them, as I am merciful to them'."

Some people were unable to understand why the Prophet (saas) played with children and took such an interest in them. On one accasion, Akra bin Habis (ra) saw the Prophet (saas) kissing Hassan (ra), and said:

" 'I have ten children and have never kissed one of them'." The Prophet (saas) looked at him and said, 'Those who show no mercy will be shown no mercy'."

The Prophet (saas)'s venerable son Ibrahim (ra) would frequently visit the house of his wet nurse, show her love and affection, and stroke her head. Anas bin Malik (ra), the servant of the Prophet (saas), has another recollection:

"I never saw anyone who was more compassionate towards children than the Messenger of Allah (saas). His son Ibrahim was in the care of a wet-nurse in the hills around Madinah. He would go there, and we would go with him, and he would enter the house, pick up his son and kiss him, then come back."

Our Prophet (saas) also warned the faithful to treat their children justly, and said:

"Fear Allah and treat your children with equal justice."

The Prophet (saas) also placed great emphasis on children's education and their being brought up with a proper morality, and showed the way by giving a great deal of advice on the matter. Some of the things he had to say are as follows:

"The best things that a man leaves behind after his death are a virtuous child who invokes Allah for him, a perpetual charity, the reward of which reaches him, and a beneficial knowledge which remains useful after him."

"One of a child's duties to his father is to make his name and behavior fitting."
"Be hospitable to your children and raise them to be well-behaved ..."
As in all subjects, the Prophet Muhammad (saas) was an excellent model to the faithful as far as taking an interest in children and showing them love and affection. He communicated the importance of showing love to children in the words, "He does not belong to us who does not show mercy to our young ones...."

The Prophet (saas)'s wives are the mothers of the believers

The Prophet (saas)'s wives are the mothers of all believers, models for all Muslim women, possessed of true godliness. There is a considerable amount of information about the behavior and faith of the Prophet (saas)'s wives, the way they cared for him, their own wisdom and their excellent morality, to be found in the Qur'an, the hadiths, and accounts about the life of the Prophet (saas).

One of the facts about the Prophet (saas)'s wives in the Qur'an is that they are the mothers of all the believers:

"The Prophet (saas) has closer ties to the believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers... "(Surat al-Ahzab: 6)

In another verse, Allah forbids the believers to marry his wives after he has passed on:

"… It is not right for you to cause annoyance to the Messenger of Allah or ever to marry his wives after him. To do that would be a dreadful thing in Allah's sight. "(Surat al-Ahzab: 53)

Other verses of the Qur'an reveal that the wives of the Prophet (saas) are not like other women, and describe how they ought to behave. The description reads:

"Wives of the Prophet! You are not like other women provided you heed Allah. Do not be too soft-spoken in your speech lest someone with sickness in his heart becomes desirous. Speak correct and courteous words. Remain in your houses and do not display your beauty as it was previously displayed in the Time of Ignorance. Establish prayer [salat] and pay welfare tax [zakat] and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah desires to remove all impurity from you, People of the House, and to purify you completely. And remember the Signs of Allah and the wise words which are recited in your rooms. Allah is All-Pervading, All-Aware."(Surat al-Ahzab: 32-33)

The behavior of the godly wives of the Prophet (saas), as revealed in these verses, in other words, their goodwill, intelligence and conscientiousness, their dignified behavior, their modesty, the care they took over their religious observances, and their obedience of the Prophet (saas), and their knowledge of the Qur'an and the sayings of the Prophet (saas), should set an example for all Muslim women.

Allah has revealed in the Qur'an that the wives of the Prophet (saas) will be doubly rewarded:

"Wives of the Prophet! If any of you commits an obvious act of indecency she will receive double the punishment. That is an easy matter for Allah. But those of you who are obedient to Allah and His Messenger and act rightly will be given their reward twice over; and We have prepared generous provision for them. "(Surat al-Ahzab: 30-31)

"Nor does he speak from whim. It is nothing but Revelation revealed."
(Surat an-Najm: 3-4)

"Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are fierce to the disbelievers, merciful to one another…"(Surat al-Fath: 29)

The first of the wives of the Prophet (saas) was Khadija (ra). She was also one of the very first Muslims. When the Prophet (saas) received his first revelation he immediately told her of it. Khadija (ra) is known for her intelligence, perceptiveness, foresight and wisdom, and she immediately believed, offering the Prophet (saas) enormous support in the days that followed and expending great physical and spiritual effort to help spread the morality of the Qur'an.

Other wives of the Prophet (saas), such as Sauda, Aisha, Hafsah, Umm Habiba, Umm Salama, Safia, Moyomuna, Zainab bint Jahsh, Juwairya (ra) are also mentioned for their self-sacrifice, patience, and loyalty to the Prophet (saas), and were also excellent role models for the faithful.

The Prophet (saas) displayed great interest in his wives as well as children, and was a means whereby their faith, health, happiness and knowledge were all increased. It is reported that the Prophet (saas) would play with his wives and run races with them. His companions described the Prophet (saas)'s great interest in his wives in the words, " The Prophet (saas) used to joke with his wives..."

According to Aisha (ra), "I have never seen a man who was more compassionate to his family members than Muhammad (saas)."

Another characteristic the Prophet (saas) is known to have possessed is his great justice towards his wives. It is reported that he divided his visits between them equally.

Anas bin Malik (ra) says:

"Allah's Apostle (saas) had nine wives. So when he divided (his stay) with them, the turn of the first wife only came on the ninth (day). They (all the wives) used to gather every night in the house of the one where he had to come (and stay that night)."

Many of the words of the Prophet (saas) make it clear just how valuable devout women are. For instance, one of his sayings was as follows: "The whole world is a provision, and the best object of benefit of the world is the pious woman."

The Prophet (saas) also told his companions how they should treat their own wives:

"The most perfect believer in faith is one who is the best of them in good conduct. The best of you is one who treats best with his wife among you."

"The best of you, is the one who is best to his wives, and I am the best of you toward my wives."

"This is news of the Unseen which We reveal to you. You were not with them when they decided what to do and devised their scheme."
(Surah Yusuf: 102)

Meaning of Worship, Types of Worship and What it comprises?

The meaning of worship.

The foundation of worship is humility and submission. In Islam it has many definitions, but their meaning is the same. Amongst them:

Worship is submission to Allah with utmost humility and love of Him.

Worship is obedience to Allah by complying to that which Allah has commanded upon the tongues of His Messengers.

As seen from the above verse of Glorious Qur'an, the purpose of creation is to Worship Allah (swt) and the best form of worship and remembrance of Allah (swt) is Salaah (prayers). It is a favor bestowed upon Muslim ummah from Allah (swt), the exalted, a solution to various difficulties one is to face en-route his life and a recipe for success in this life as well as the life of hereafter. Muslims are invited to earn this favor five times a day through , Adhaan(call for prayer). The Importance of Salaah is recalled to Muslims five times a day whenever Adhaan is pronounced,

Hayya 'alas-Salaah (Come to Prayers), Hayya 'alal-Falaah (Come to Success)

Indeed successful are those believers who are humble in their Salaah (prayers) The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 23, Verses 1-2

Success comes from proper composition of well-defined purpose and sincere efforts. Thus Salaah should be performed in full submissiveness and obedience. Allah (swt) thus asks believers to guard prayers strictly and offer Salaah in the best form.

Lo! the hypocrites seek to beguile Allah, but it is Allah who beguileth them. When they stand up to worship they perform it languidly and to be seen of men, and are mindful of Allah but little. The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 4, Verse 142

The above verse from Surah Al-Nisa of Glorious Qur'an stresses the disliked way of praying, which reflects the deception in purpose, lack of vigor and thus a deficiency in love and fear towards Allah (swt). The true purpose of Salaah is remembrance of Allah (swt) and to seek pleasure of Allah (swt) by glorifying and praising him for his uncountable favors towards his creations. Allah (swt) affirms,

It is Me, Allah; there is none worthy of worship except Me, so worship Me and establish Salaah for My remembrance. The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 20, Verse 14

Now that we have elaborated the correct purpose the methodology should also be perfected i.e observing Salaah at appointed times,

Narrated Abdullah bin Masud:

I asked Allah's Apostle, "O Allah's Apostle! What is the best deed?" He replied, "To offer the prayers at their early stated fixed times." I asked, "What is next in goodness?" He replied, "To be good and dutiful to your parents." I further asked, what is next in goodness?" He replied, "To participate in Jihad in Allah's Cause." I did not ask Allah's Apostle anymore and if I had asked him more, he would have told me more. (Sahih Bukhari, Book 4, Volume 52, Hadith 41)

Qur'an bears the testimony of the consequences one would face for being neglectful of Salaah by abandoning it,

But the generations who succeeded them abandoned the Salaah and started following their lusts; so they will soon face the consequences of their deviation. The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 19, Verse 59

It is narrated on the authority of Abu Hurrayrah that the Prophet said "The first thing about which the people will be called to account out of their actions on the Day of Judgment is prayer. Our Lord, the Exalted, will say to the angels - though He knows better: Look into the prayer of My servant and see whether he has offered it perfectly or imperfectly." (Dawud, Book 3, Hadith 863)

In Surah Al-Ma'arij verses 19-23, Allah (swt) uses the word halu'an to describe the restless and impatient nature of man. Whenever he is afflicted with some trouble he lacks the patience (Arabic: Sabr) and trembles in despair. This arises due to shortcomings in trust towards Allah (swt). On the other hand, when he is given in abundance he turns ungrateful towards the Sustainer Allah (swt). He is encompassed with arrogance and uncaring attitude towards the less fortunate ones. Thus Allah (swt) assures the observance of Salaah as way to preserve hope in times of grievance and humbleness & humility in periods of bountiful life. Salaah has the power to erase the roots of the evil deeds (Arabic: al-munkar) causing barrier amidst society and giving birth to wrong attitude of racial as well as financial discrimination and sinful intentions. Allah (swt) confirms the merit of Salaah.

Observe the Salaah (Contact Prayers) for it prohibits evil and vice." The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 29, Verse 45

Muhammad (pbuh) draws an excellent parable in the Hadith below concerning the fruits of Salaah

Narrated Abu Huraira:

I heard Allah's Apostle saying, "If there was a river at the door of anyone of you and he took a bath in it five times a day would you notice any dirt on him?" They said, "Not a trace of dirt would be left." The Prophet added, "That is the example of the five prayers with which Allah blots out (annuls) evil deeds." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 1, Volume 10, Hadith 505)

Glory be to Allah (swt) who has given us such an opportunity to seek his pleasure and attain salvation.

Seek Allah's help with patience and Salaah: it is indeed hard to be patient and to be punctual in offering Salaah except for those who fear Allah. The Holy Qur'an, Chapter 2, Verse 45

"Good Things come at a Price" The price (remembrance of Allah (swt) through Salaah) we ought to pay is very miniscule compared to the wonderful reward we are to achieve i.e Paradise. May Allah (swt) give us the courage to establish constancy in Salaah!

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