Part 2: The Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Before the Revelation

The Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Despite the difficulties of being orphaned at a young age, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) grew up to be a man of strong character and wisdom. From his youth, he exhibited qualities that set him apart from his peers, earning the trust and respect of the people of Makkah. He was known for his honesty, integrity, and reliability, which led to him being given the title Al-Amin, meaning "The Trustworthy." His reputation for truthfulness and uprightness was unparalleled in a society where deceit and corruption were common.

During his adolescence, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) accompanied his uncle Abu Talib on trade journeys, gaining valuable experience in business and commerce. These journeys not only exposed him to the broader world beyond Makkah but also allowed him to observe different cultures and religious practices. One notable incident occurred during a trade trip to Syria, where a Christian monk named Bahira noticed signs in the young Muhammad (PBUH) that indicated his future role as a prophet. Bahira recognized a cloud shading Muhammad (PBUH) and marks on his body that matched descriptions of the awaited prophet in the scriptures.

Throughout his youth, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) maintained a reputation for fairness and justice. He was involved in significant events that reflected his concern for the welfare of his community. One such event was the Hilf al-Fudul, a pact established by the leading tribes of Makkah to ensure the protection of the oppressed and the fair treatment of travelers. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a proud participant in this alliance, demonstrating his commitment to justice and social harmony, even before his prophethood.

Marriage to Khadijah (RA) and Family Life

At the age of 25,Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) entered into a blessed marriage with Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA), a wealthy and respected businesswoman in Makkah. Khadijah, who was 15 years his senior, had heard of Muhammad’s (PBUH) impeccable character and honesty through his work as a trader. She entrusted him with her trade caravans, and his success in managing her business further solidified her admiration for him.

The marriage between Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Khadijah (RA) was not only a partnership in business but also one of deep love, support, and mutual respect. Khadijah (RA) became the Prophet’s closest companion, providing him with emotional and financial support throughout the early years of his mission. Their union was blessed with several children, including their daughters Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum, and Fatimah (RA), as well as their sons Qasim and Abdullah, who both passed away in infancy.

Khadijah (RA) played an instrumental role in the Prophet’s life, not only as a supportive wife but also as the first person to believe in his prophethood when the revelations began. Her unwavering faith and support were crucial during the challenging early years of his mission, and her wisdom and compassion left an indelible mark on the Prophet’s life.

The Prophet’s Contemplative Nature and the Quest for Truth

Even before receiving revelation, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was deeply concerned about the spiritual state of his people. The rampant idol worship, moral decay, and social injustice of Makkah weighed heavily on his heart. He longed for a way to lead his people back to the pure monotheism of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

To seek solace and clarity, prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began to withdraw from the noise and distractions of Makkah’s bustling society, which was steeped in idol worship and moral decay. He felt a deep sense of unease with the spiritual and social conditions around him, and this discomfort led him to search for answers beyond what his society could provide. Unlike many of his peers, who were preoccupied with wealth, status, and tribal rivalries, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had an innate desire for truth and spiritual fulfillment.

Around the age of 35, he developed the habit of retreating to the Cave of Hira, a small and secluded cave nestled on the Mountain of Light (Jabal al-Noor), located about two miles from the heart of Makkah. This mountain was significant not only for its physical isolation but also for its serenity, providing an ideal environment for deep reflection and meditation. From the cave, one could overlook the sacred city of Makkah, which might have inspired even deeper contemplation about its people and their misguided beliefs.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would bring minimal provisions—just enough food and water to sustain him during these extended periods of solitude. He would climb the steep mountain path to reach the cave, seeking the quiet and peace it offered. In the silence of the cave, he would engage in Tafakkur, the practice of deep reflection and pondering over life’s mysteries, the creation of the world, and the nature of existence.

During these retreats, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would spend days, and sometimes weeks, in quiet contemplation. His mind was occupied with the question of the universe’s Creator, the purpose of life, and the path to moral uprightness. His retreat to Hira became a regular practice, especially during the month of Ramadan, which was known even in pre-Islamic times as a month of reflection and spiritual devotion.

The years leading up to the revelation were essential in shaping Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) character and preparing him for his prophetic mission. His reputation as Al-Amin, his experiences as a trader, and his contemplative nature all contributed to his ability to guide and lead his people toward the truth