A crucial component of the Kalimah that establishes our identity as Muslims is the phrase “Muhammad-ur-Rasul-Allah,” meaning “Muhammad ﷺ is the Messenger of Allah.” This declaration involves acknowledging that the Prophet was sent by Allah, which entails several responsibilities: we must believe in his teachings, adhere to his commandments, refrain from actions he has forbidden, and worship Allah in the manner he prescribed. Additionally, we must recognize that Muhammad ﷺ is the final Prophet, and that his message of Islam is meant for all of humanity as well as jinn.
Honoring the Prophet involves more than mere words; it requires us to comply with his directives and teachings as the true embodiment of our testimony. This obedience signifies our submission to Allah, who sent the Prophet as a bringer of glad tidings, a warner, and a guide towards Islamic Monotheism (the exclusive worship of Allah). The Prophet ﷺ illuminates our path through his teachings derived from the Qur’an and his Sunnah (practices).
Just as there are conditions that accompany the declaration of faith (La Ilaaha Ill Allah), there are specific rights that we owe to the Prophet ﷺ. Simply reciting the Kalimah is not enough; we must actively fulfill our responsibilities toward him. Learning and practicing these duties are essential for our hope of attaining Paradise and ensuring a peaceful experience in our graves, while also avoiding the torment of Hellfire.
OUR DUTY TOWARDS THE PROPHET OF ALLAH ﷺ
- Believing in Him: The foremost duty we have is to believe in the Messenger of Allah ﷺ with a faith that is deep-rooted in our hearts. This belief should manifest as love, respect, and admiration for him. Allah (may He be Exalted) states: “O you who believe [in Mûsâ and ‘Isâ]! Fear Allah, and believe in His Messenger (Muhammad ﷺ); He will grant you a double portion of His Mercy and a light by which you shall walk.” This faith should have a profound impact, leading us to honor the Prophet with love and reverence. As noted by Ibn Taymiyyah, genuine faith is not merely a mental acknowledgment but must also evoke glorification and deep respect for the Prophet ﷺ in our hearts.
- Following His Example: Our obligations include not only obeying the Prophet but also emulating him in our lives. This means accepting his guidance and submitting to his judgments wholeheartedly. Allah (may He be Exalted) affirms this in the Quran, saying, “We sent no Messenger but to be obeyed by Allah’s permission.” This highlights the necessity of adhering to the Prophet’s guidance as a vital aspect of our faith. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized that true love for Allah is demonstrated through following him, as mentioned in Surah Imran: “Say (O Muhammad ﷺ): If you do love Allah, then follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins.”
- Loving Him: Loving the Messenger of Allah ﷺ must take precedence over our affection for ourselves, our families, and all other creations. Allah commands in Surah At-Tawbah: “Say: If your fathers, sons, brothers, wives, kindred, wealth, commerce, and dwellings are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger, then wait until Allah brings His Decision.” The Prophet ﷺ further clarified this by stating, “None of you will have complete faith until he loves me more than his father, his children, and all people.” This love requires us to genuinely follow the Prophet ﷺ in our actions and beliefs without adding or omitting anything from his teachings.
- Adhering to the Sunnah: Allah (may He be Exalted) emphasizes that the Prophet ﷺ serves as an exemplary model for us to follow, stating, “You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah ﷺ a beautiful pattern (of conduct).” It is essential to adhere strictly to the Sunnah, avoiding any innovations that deviate from the original teachings. The Prophet ﷺ warned against introducing changes to religious practices, stating, “He who innovates things in these affairs of ours, for which there is no valid (reason), his innovation are to be rejected.” It is critical not to place personal opinions above the clear guidance provided by the Qur’an and the Sunnah, as Allah commands, “O you who believe! Make not (a decision) in advance before Allah and His Messenger, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.”
- Avoiding Harm to Him: It is imperative that we do not cause any distress or annoyance to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Allah warns, “And it is not (right) for you that you should annoy Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him), nor that you should ever marry his wives after him.” This encompasses any actions that could disrespect the Prophet’s legacy, including the treatment of his family and companions. Those who harm the Prophet will face severe consequences, as Allah emphasizes the importance of showing respect to him and his teachings.
- Sending Blessings upon Him: Allah and His Angels are said to send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ, and He instructs believers to do the same. In the Quran, Allah states: “O you that believe! Send you blessings on him, and salute him with all respect.” The Prophet ﷺ assured us that anyone who recites blessings upon him will receive tenfold blessings from Allah. The recommended invocation includes: “O Allah! Send Your Mercy on Muhammad ﷺ and on the family of Muhammad ﷺ, just as You sent Your Mercy on Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim, for You are the Most Praiseworthy, the Most Glorious.”
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