Why is it essential for Muslims to know Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last prophet? In times when misleading claims rise, understanding the core Islamic belief in the finality of Prophethood protects faith and identity.
Quranic Proofs of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as Seal of the Prophets
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.” — Surah Al-Ahzab 33:40 (Tafhim al-Quran / Ibn Kathir / Bayan ul Quran)
مَّا كَانَ مُحَمَّدٌ أَبَاۤ أَحَدࣲ مِّن رِّجَالِكُمۡ وَلَـٰكِن رَّسُولَ ٱللَّهِ وَخَاتَمَ ٱلنَّبِیِّـۧنَۗ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ بِكُلِّ شَیۡءٍ عَلِیمࣰا
Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the seal of the Prophets. Allah has full knowledge of everything.
[33:40]
This verse, cited by every major tafsir, directly confirms that Prophethood ended with Muhammad (PBUH). ‘Seal of the Prophets’ (Khatam an-Nabiyyin) means no prophet will come after him.
Sahih Hadith on the Finality of Prophethood
“The children of Israel used to be guided by prophets. When one prophet died, another succeeded him. There will be no prophet after me, but there will be caliphs who will increase in number.” — Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 60, Hadith 661
Clearly states that no new prophet will follow Muhammad (PBUH)—only leaders, never claimants of divine prophethood.
Understanding ‘Seal of the Prophets’ in Tafsir
Tafhim al-Quran: Syed Abul A’la Maududi elaborates that no new prophet, messenger, or recipient of revelation will rise post-Muhammad (PBUH).
Dr. Israr Ahmed in Bayan ul Quran stresses the closure of divine communication and necessity of following the Sunnah.
Ibn Kathir (Darussalam edition) clarifies ‘seal’ as ‘closure’ and ‘completion’—refuting ideas of continuity.
Refuting False Prophet Claims and End-Time Fitnas
Quran and authentic Hadith warn believers against impostors, especially at the end of times.
Stories like Musaylimah (the false prophet in the life of Muhammad PBUH) as lasting warnings.
List brief qualities of impostors:
- Claim direct revelation or prophethood.
- Contradict core Quran/Hadith teachings.
Stay vigilant—never accept any ‘new’ prophet after Muhammad (PBUH).
Protecting Faith: What Muslims Should Do
- Learn direct Quran verses, memorize key ayat.
- Share knowledge in family and community circles.
- Prefer Sahih Hadith and trusted tafsir sources.
- Avoid engaging with or following claimants or their groups.
Belief in Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the last prophet is not only a core tenet—it is a safeguard against fitnas and deception at the end of times. Every claim of new prophethood after him is false, as proven by Allah’s words and the Prophet’s clear sayings. Understanding this truth deepens faith and strengthens resolve to follow the complete guidance revealed through the final Messenger.
Reflect: How can you help others hold fast to this truth in your own community?
