Muhammad

Muhammad (/moʊˈhɑːməd/; Arabic: مُحَمَّد, romanized: Muḥammad [mʊˈħæm.mæd]; c. 570 – 8 June 632 CE) was an Arab religious, social, and political leader who founded Islam. According to Islamic doctrine, he was a prophet divinely inspired to preach and confirm the monotheistic teachings of Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and other prophets.

Early Life

Muhammad was born in approximately 570 CE in Mecca. He was the son of Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib and Amina bint Wahb. His father, Abdullah, the son of Quraysh tribal leader Abd al-Muttalib ibn Hashim, died around the time Muhammad was born. His mother Amina died when he was six, leaving Muhammad an orphan. He was raised under the care of his grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib, and paternal uncle, Abu Talib.

Prophethood

At the age of 40, Muhammad began to receive revelations from Allah through the angel Gabriel. These revelations, which continued for the next 23 years, are recorded in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Muhammad's teachings emphasized strict monotheism, justice, and compassion for the poor and oppressed.

Migration to Medina and Later Life

Facing persecution in Mecca, Muhammad and his followers migrated to Medina in 622 CE, an event known as the Hijra. This migration marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad established a theocratic state and continued to spread his message.

In 630 CE, after years of conflict with the Meccan tribes, Muhammad and his followers conquered Mecca, cleansing the Kaaba of idols and reestablishing it as a center of monotheistic worship.

Family

Muhammad was married to Khadija bint Khuwaylid, his first wife and the first person to convert to Islam. After her death, he married several other women, including Aisha and Hafsa bint Umar.

Death and Legacy

Muhammad passed away on 8 June 632 CE in Medina. His death led to the establishment of the Caliphate, with Abu Bakr becoming the first Caliph and leader of the Muslim community.