EPILOGUE“Endless are the words which have been spoken to described his noble life and personality. I believe no one can fail to be moved or inspired by the magnificence of his radiance character; even Muhammad’s (pbuh) greatest enemies had to admit that no fault could be found in his behaviour or integrity. In addition, those Western scholars and historical figures who over the centuries were brave enough to gaze with an honest heart at the miracle of Muhammad’s (pbuh) life and achievements have testified to this.
Strange indeed, therefore, that so many people on the face of the earth today have little or no knowledge of the life and mission of this last great Prophet of God (pbuh) and his historical impact on the world we live in.”
Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens)
It is so ironical that although glowing tributes are paid to him for his integrity and achievements, his claim of being the Prophet of God has been rejected either explicitly or implicitly. Even those who wrote that his prophethood cannot be denied refused to embrace his teachings, his holy book, and his religion. Prejudice, bigotry and dogmatism are the bane of man that have caused him to slaughter thousands of prophets and wise preachers in the course of history.
Although non-Muslim are now more open to accepting objective commentaries and testimonies on Muhammad (pbuh) and Islam the damage done by the prejudicial and slanderous image of Muhammad (pbuh) and Islam promulgated by the Christian West, especially during the centuries of the crusades, is only now being gradually repaired and the greatness of this Prophet of God is being understood, as shown by the numerous testimonies quoted above. Unfortunately, the arrogance of man is still evident as this great yet humble and benevolent Prophet of God still continues to be ridiculed by nonbelievers and apostates today. The religion that he preached - Islam means Peace (and Submission to the Will of God) - also suffers the same fate from those who fail to realise the beauty of sublimity of its teachings - and that truly it is the only recourse for man to be saved from the multitudinous predicaments that he has got himself into.
God had sent Muhammad (pbuh) as a grace to the Worlds (by bringing the Quran, Islam and being the perfect model of the teachings); and Islam is the only religion (way of life) God approves of:
“We have sent you (o Muhammad) only as a mercy for all the worlds.” [Quran 21:107]
“And most certainly, you (o Muhammad) are most sublime and exalted character.” [Quran 68:4]
“Verily in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example to follow for him who believes in Allah and the Last Day, and always remembers Allah.” [Quran 33:21]
“Truly, the way of life (religion) in the Sight (approved by) of Allah is Islam.” [Quran 3:19]
“It is He who has sent his Messenger with Guidance and the Religion of Truth. The he (Muhammad) may proclaim it over all religions. Even though the associators (those who associate false gods with Him) may detest.” [Quran 61:9]
Is it mere coincidence that Muhammad (pbuh) was everything the Quran said he would be, nearly 1400 years ago? He founded the first ever nation-state with a written constitution. He was the first to invite other great rulers of his time to submit to God. He is acknowledged by independent scholars as a great prophet, the most successful religious personality, the greatest leader, the most influential person and therefore the greatest man in history. The religion he founded is set to be the largest religion; and the Holy Book he brought remains the only book known to remain in its pristine original form after nearly fourteen centuries, and its authenticity, infallability, inerrancy, indefectability and absolute reliability remain unchallenged to this day.
The non-believer is beseeched to search his heart, question his own objectivity and sincerity, and examine the validity of his faith in the face of credible amount of evidence in support of Muhammad’s (pbuh) claim to be the last Prophet and Messenger of God.
The greatness of this Prophet will not be appreciated unless one knows the extent of his impact and influence upon humanity from his time, to the present, and into the future. This article is but a small attempt to inform the non-Muslim worlds that they should not ignore him; the greatest man with the greatest mission ever, whose stature and achievements remain unsurpassed in human history.
For further understanding of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) life, mission and achievements, the reader should refer to the numerous books written about him. A list of recommended books can be given by contacting RICOI. [Compiled by Dr Amir Farid Isahak for RICOI] Sincere acknowledgements to the authors whose works have been freely quoted in this article.]
RESEARCH & INFORMATION CENTRE ON ISLAM (RICOI)
RICOI is a non-profit organisation dedicated towards research and propagation of Islamic information through publications, audio video, electronic media and the Internet.
Please address all enquiries to:
The Secretary, RICOI
17, Taman Zaaba,
Taman Tun Dr Ismail,
60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel/Fax: 03 719 6658
(e-mail) ricoi@po.jaring.my
Those interested in the references used in this article and Non-Muslims interested in dialogues/discussions can contact Dr Amir Farid at 03 704 8833 Pager 1300.
This article was first published in commemoration of the anniversary of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) on 12 Rabi’ul’awal 1417 (28 July 1996), republished again on 12 Rabi’ul’awal 1424 (13 May 2003) and now republished again on 11 Rabi’ul’awal 1431 (25 February 2010). May Allah and his Messenger be pleased with our effort.
[PART I]
[PART II]
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