The noble message of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) can be encapsulated in a single word: Mercy. The Almighty Allah, who sent the message and chose the Messenger, describes this quality in the Holy Quran. As stated in the verse, "And We have not sent you, O Muhammad, except as a mercy to the worlds." Mercy, as a key concept here, embodies the spirit of Islam and the essence of the Prophet’s message.
This attribute is also reflected in the name of Allah, the Creator of the universe, as He describes Himself: “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” In another verse, Allah says, “My mercy encompasses all things.” The Prophet Muhammad was chosen by Allah to deliver the message of mercy to humanity. His life exemplified this moral principle, evident in his sayings, actions, and interactions.
The Prophet's compassion towards believers was unparalleled. The Quran describes it in this verse: “There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you suffer; (he is) concerned over you (i.e., your guidance) and to the believers is kind and merciful."
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was renowned for his love, kindness, and compassion, considered the most loving and compassionate among his people. The Holy Quran reflects on his gentle behaviour, "O Messenger of Allah! It is a great Mercy of God that you are gentle and kind towards them; for, had you been harsh and hard-hearted, they would all have broken away from you."
The Prophet taught people to show mercy and respect to one another, stating, “He who does not show mercy to others will not be shown mercy.” In another instance, when some people requested him to ask Allah to punish the disbelievers, the Prophet responded, “I have not been sent to curse, but as a mercy.”
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified the highest level of mercy achievable by a human being. Numerous sayings, testimonies, stories, and incidents highlight the significance and application of this value in the Prophet’s life. His personal interactions were characterised by kindness and patience.
He treated people with dignity, listened to them attentively, and showed a genuine concern for their welfare. Whether dealing with the poor, the orphaned, or those who had wronged him, his approach was always marked by gentleness and forgiveness.
One of the Prophet’s companions reflected on his kindness and gentleness, particularly towards the weak and poor: “I served Allah's Messenger for ten years, and he never said to me, ‘Shame’ or ‘Why did you do such-and-such a thing?’ or ‘Why did you not do such-and-such a thing?’ He was always kind and gentle to everyone around him.”
Likewise, the Prophet Muhammad once told his wife, "O ‘Aisha! Never turn away any needy man from your door empty-handed. O ‘Aisha! Love the poor; bring them near to you, and Allah will bring you near to Him on the Day of Resurrection." He emphasised interdependence among humans, saying, "All creatures are Allah's dependents, and those dearest to Allah are those who treat His dependents kindly."
Reflecting his commitment to spreading mercy to all living beings, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, “There is a reward for kindness to every living thing.” Addressing his companions, the Prophet said, “Allah has revealed to me that you must be humble. No one should boast over one another, and no one should oppress another.” His love, compassion, and mercy were genuine and profound, unlike the superficial claims of modern humanism.
The Prophet Muhammad’s sincere and balanced kindness stemmed from being raised by Allah, the Creator and Sustainer of all. He lived not for himself, but for others. The Prophet stands as an exemplary figure in the history of humanity, not only for his role as a religious leader, but also for his profound model of mercy and compassion.
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