Why is Muhammad a Prophet in Islam?

In a Nutshell: Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the final prophet chosen by Allah (SWT) to receive divine revelations and guide humanity towards monotheism and a righteous way of life. His prophethood is established by the Quran, authentic hadiths and the affirmations of Islamic scholars throughout history. Table of Contents Introduction Evidences Why is Muhammad a Prophet in Islam? Misconceptions FAQs Conclusion Introduction Prophethood holds immense significance in Islam. Prophets (PBUT) are divinely chosen individuals entrusted with receiving revelations from Allah (SWT) and conveying them to humanity. These revelations serve as guidance, correcting deviations and calling people back to worshipping the One True God. This answer explores the reasons why Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the final prophet in Islam. We will examine the Quranic verses, hadiths and scholarly opinions that establish his prophethood and unique role as the last messenger of Allah (SWT). Evidences The prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) is firmly established by various sources within Islam: Quranic Verses: The Quran, the central text of Islam, explicitly mentions Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the last messenger (Khatam an-Nabiyyin) sent to confirm previous revelations and complete God's message for humanity (Quran 33:40). Hadiths: Numerous authentic hadiths narrate the Prophet's (PBUH) experiences receiving revelations from Angel Gabriel (AS). For instance, in Sahih al-Bukhari, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) describes the first revelation as occurring during a meditation retreat in a cave, where he was commanded to Read (Quran 96:1-5). Companions and Scholars: The companions (Sahaba RA) who witnessed the Prophet's (PBUH) life and mission unanimously affirmed his prophethood. This belief is further echoed by countless Islamic scholars throughout history. Why is Muhammad a Prophet in Islam? The belief in Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) prophethood rests on several key aspects within Islamic theology: Continuity of Prophethood: Islam upholds the concept of a long chain of prophets (PBUT) sent by Allah (SWT) at different times to guide humanity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is seen as the culmination of this tradition, confirming the messages of previous prophets like Abraham (AS), Moses (AS) and Jesus (AS) (Quran 2:136). Khatam an-Nabiyyin (Seal of the Prophets): The Quran designates Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the Seal of Prophets (Khatam an-Nabiyyin) (Quran 33:40). This signifies that no new prophets will come after him, as Islam provides a complete and universal message for all of humanity throughout time. Unique Qualities of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): Several aspects distinguish Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) prophethood: Receiving the Quran: He received the final revelation from Allah (SWT), the Quran, a complete and perfect guide for humankind (Quran 16:89). The Quran's miraculous nature, linguistic beauty and preservation throughout centuries are seen as testaments to its divine origin. Establishing Islamic Practices and Principles: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) established the core practices and principles of Islam, including the five pillars of Islam (shahadah, salah, zakat, sawm, hajj) and Islamic law (Shariah). These provide a comprehensive framework for Muslims to live a God-centered life. Exemplary Character and Conduct: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) embodied the highest moral character. The Quran describes him as an excellent exemplar (Quran 33:21). His life serves as a practical model for Muslims to emulate in their daily conduct and interactions. These unique qualities solidify Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) position as the final messenger of Allah (SWT), entrusted with conveying the complete and perfect message of Islam for all humanity. Misconceptions Here are a few common misconceptions about Muhammad's (PBUH) prophethood in Islam and clarifications of these beliefs: Muhammad (PBUH) "invented" Islam. Islam teaches that Allah (SWT) is the sole author of Islam, revealed gradually throughout history. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is not the founder of the religion but rather, the messenger chosen to reveal the final and comprehensive version of Allah's (SWT) message. Muslims worship Muhammad (PBUH). Muslims vehemently reject any form of worship directed towards anyone other than Allah (SWT). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is deeply respected and revered, but only Allah (SWT) is worthy of worship. Why another prophet after Jesus (AS)? Islamic belief holds that previous revelations were corrupted or lost over time. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent to restore the original message of Allah (SWT) and provide comprehensive guidance for all of humanity. Can't there be prophets after Muhammad (PBUH)? The Quran explicitly declares Muhammad (PBUH) as the Seal of the Prophets (Quran 33:40). Islam provides a universal and timeless message, rendering the need for further prophethood unnecessary. FAQs What are the signs of prophethood in Islam? Miracles performed by prophets, the fulfillment of their prophecies, their righteous character and the divine origin of their revelations. How do Muslims follow the teachings of Muhammad (PBUH)? Adhering to the Quran and the authentic Sunnah (the Prophet's (PBUH) teachings and practices). Islamic scholars offer guidance on their interpretation and application. Conclusion The prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) is a cornerstone of Muslim belief. Evidence from the Quran, hadiths and the consensus of Islamic scholars firmly establish that he is the final messenger of Allah (SWT). The Prophet's (PBUH) exemplary life, teachings and the enduring nature of the Quran, serve as testaments to his prophetic role. References Esposito, John L. (2003). The Oxford dictionary of Islam. Oxford University Press. Lings, Martin. (1983). Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. Inner Traditions.