The life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a radiant example for all humanity. Through his words and actions, he demonstrated perfect character, profound wisdom, and divine guidance. These authentic stories from his blessed life – drawn from Sahih Hadith and Quranic references – continue to inspire millions worldwide.
“There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern…”
(Surah Al-Ahzab, Ayah 21)
Let’s journey through 10 transformative moments that reveal why he is called “Mercy to the Worlds”.
1. The Mountain That Would Not Crush Him
The Story:
Early in his mission, after facing severe persecution in Makkah, the Prophet (PBUH) went to Taif to spread Islam. Instead of accepting his message, the people:
- Stoned him until his shoes filled with blood
- Drove him out of the city
As he took shelter in an orchard, the angel Jibreel appeared with the Angel of Mountains, saying:
“O Muhammad, if you wish, I will crush them between these two mountains.”
The Prophet’s Response:
“No, I hope Allah will bring from their descendants people who worship Him alone without associating partners with Him.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3231)
Lesson: Even when given power to retaliate, he chose mercy and foresight.
2. The Healing of a Jewish Woman’s Poisoning
The Story:
A Jewish woman sent poisoned meat to the Prophet (PBUH) after the Battle of Khaybar. When he tasted it, he immediately spat it out, realizing it was poisoned.
The woman was brought before him and confessed. Rather than punish her:
- He forgave her
- When she later became ill, he visited her
- She embraced Islam before her death
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 5430)
Lesson: Respond to harm with forgiveness and compassion.
3. The Old Woman Who Hated Islam
The Story:
An elderly woman would regularly throw garbage on the Prophet (PBUH) as he passed her house. One day when no garbage came:
- He inquired about her
- Learned she was sick
- Visited to check on her
Her heart softened, and she accepted Islam.
(Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Hadith 369)
Lesson: Kindness breaks barriers better than retaliation.
4. The Boy Who Loved the Prophet
The Story:
A young Jewish boy served the Prophet (PBUH). When the boy fell gravely ill:
- The Prophet visited him
- Gently invited him to Islam
- The boy looked to his father, who nodded approval
- He recited the Shahadah and passed away
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Praise be to Allah who saved him from the Fire.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1290)
Lesson: Never underestimate the impact of gentle Dawah.
5. The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah: Victory in ‘Defeat’
The Story:
When the Muslims were prevented from entering Makkah for Umrah in 6 AH:
- They negotiated the seemingly unfavorable Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
- Many companions were upset by the terms
- The Prophet (PBUH) foresaw the wisdom
Allah revealed:
“Indeed, We have granted you a clear victory.”
(Surah Al-Fath, Ayah 1)
Result: This “defeat” led to:
- Mass conversions to Islam
- The peaceful conquest of Makkah two years later
Lesson: Divine wisdom often differs from human perception.
6. The Prophet’s Night Journey (Isra & Mi’raj)
The Story:
In one night, the Prophet (PBUH):
- Traveled from Makkah to Jerusalem (Isra)
- Ascended through the heavens (Mi’raj)
- Received the command for five daily prayers
Allah says:
“Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa…”
(Surah Al-Isra, Ayah 1)
Miracle: When skeptics questioned him about Jerusalem’s details, he described them perfectly despite never having visited.
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3887)
Lesson: Faith transcends physical limitations.
7. The Prophet’s Last Sermon: A Charter for Humanity
The Historic Moment:
During his farewell pilgrimage in 10 AH, before over 100,000 companions, he proclaimed:
- Equality of all humans
- Women’s rights
- Prohibition of usury
- Sanctity of life and property
His closing words:
“I have conveyed the message. O Allah, bear witness!”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1218)
Lesson: A complete, timeless guidance for all aspects of life.
8. The Prophet’s Concern for Animals
The Stories:
- The Crying Camel: He saw a camel weeping from neglect. He said:
“Fear Allah regarding these animals who cannot speak!”
(Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 2549)
- The Bird’s Distress: When companions took a bird’s chicks, he ordered:
“Return them to her.”
(Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 2675)
Lesson: Mercy extends to all creation.
9. The Prophet’s Humble Lifestyle
The Reality:
Despite being a head of state:
- He mended his own shoes
- Helped with household chores
- Often slept on a simple palm fiber mat
- Sometimes went hungry
Aisha (RA) reported:
“A month would pass without fire being lit in our homes (for cooking).”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6458)
Lesson: True richness is in contentment, not possessions.
10. The Prophet’s Final Moments
The Scene:
In his last illness, he:
- Gave away his last coins in charity
- Repeatedly asked:
“Have I conveyed the message?”
- Whispered with his dying breath:
“The highest company…” (referring to paradise)
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4462)
Lesson: Complete dedication to mission until the last breath.
Conclusion
These stories reveal why over 1.8 billion Muslims love and follow Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His life offers:
✔ Guidance for personal development
✔ Blueprint for social justice
✔ Model for leadership
Action Steps:
- Read one Hadith daily about the Prophet (PBUH)
- Implement one sunnah in your life this week
- Share these stories with others
“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example…”
(Surah Al-Ahzab, Ayah 21)
May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger, and may we follow his noble example. Ameen!
