Amid the madness of extremism, fanaticism, and violence in the name of Islam, I find myself thinking of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday in a different light.
I think of him first as a beautiful human being, of noble character, before being a Messenger and Prophet. He embodied the heart and essence of religion through his words and actions.
I see his wisdom in spreading his message through kindness, counsel, love, and mercy—even at the moment of his victory on the day of the conquest of Mecca.
His acknowledgment of his humanity when he asked his companions to discuss matters with him, and even to correct his decisions in war, was a message about turning to expertise when needed.
When he accepted the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, despite the objections of his closest advisers to omitting the phrase “Messenger of God” in its preamble… when he affirmed the rituals of pilgrimage as they were before Islam… when he gave Abu Sufyan, the leader of the Quraysh disbelievers, honor and standing at the moment of Mecca’s conquest—he was a shrewd statesman, seeing the future, not drowning in the moment, gathering people together rather than dividing them.
His strength in declaring that God does not alter His cosmic laws for the sake of man—when the sun was eclipsed during the burial of his son Ibrahim—was a profound human lesson in refusing to exploit coincidence or circumstances to falsely elevate his mission.
His love for his daughter, and his objection to her beloved husband, Ali ibn Abi Talib, when Ali wished to marry another wife alongside her, was an act of profound humanity.
My Master and Beloved Muhammad was a man of beauty in character, merciful to those around him, wise in his words, faithful to his promises.
He combined the roles of caring father, loving husband, successful leader, astute statesman, cherished prophet, philosopher, and above all, a true human being.
He was the only one who fulfilled his message, preserved it, and lived God’s words as a model to be followed.
On the anniversary of your birth,
I close my eyes and send you a message of love, gratitude, and respect,
for you are a supreme example among God’s creation.
