Muhammad (ﷺ): The Seal of the Prophets
The Culmination of Divine Guidance and Mercy to the Worlds
In the city of Mecca, in the 6th century, humanity was blessed with the arrival of the final messenger, Muhammad ibn Abdullah (peace and blessings be upon him). He was known amongst his people as Al-Amin (the Trustworthy) long before prophethood, a testament to his impeccable character. At the age of 40, in the cave of Hira, he received the first revelation from the Angel Gabriel, beginning a 23-year mission to convey the final, universal message of God to all of humanity.
His life is the ultimate embodiment of mercy, wisdom, and leadership. He came not to cancel the messages of the prophets before him, but to confirm, complete, and seal them, unifying the eternal message of Tawhid (Oneness of God) for all time. He is described in the Qur'an not just as a messenger, but as a "mercy to the worlds."
"Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing." (Qur'an 33:40)
The Qur'an, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) over two decades, is the literal word of Allah. It is a preserved, unaltered guide for humanity, a source of law, morality, and spiritual enlightenment. Unlike previous scriptures which were for a specific people and time, the Qur'an is a timeless miracle for all places and generations, its eloquence and wisdom remaining unmatched and a source of profound guidance.
"Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an and indeed, We will be its guardian." (Qur'an 15:9)
The Sunnah refers to the teachings, deeds, and silent approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is the living commentary on the Qur'an. To understand how to implement the Qur'an's guidance on compassion, justice, and worship, one must look to the Prophet's example. His character was described by his wife Aisha (RA) as "the Qur'an walking," making him the perfect role model for every aspect of human life.
"There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day..." (Qur'an 33:21)
The Prophet's message contained both an outer law (Shari'ah) to govern society, family, and personal conduct, and an inner path (Tariqah) to purify the soul and attain closeness to God. While the outer law provides the necessary structure for a just and ethical life, the inner path focuses on the state of the heart—transforming sincerity, love, and awareness of God into a constant reality.
This inner dimension, known as Ihsan, is the perfection of worship and the very essence of what would come to be known as Sufism. It is not separate from the Shari'ah, but is its heart and soul. Ihsan was defined by the Prophet (ﷺ) in the famous Hadith of Gabriel when he was asked about it. He replied: "to worship Allah as though you see Him, and if you cannot see Him, then know that He sees you." This state of constant, loving awareness of the Divine is the ultimate goal of the spiritual seeker and the foundation upon which the Path of the Saints is built.