The Termination of Prophethood

THE TERMINATION OF PROPHETHOOD Thanks to the termination of prophethood, the followers of Muhammad will never again have to choose between an ancient Prophet and a modern one. Never again—at least in the present world—will they be forced to opt for the old or the new—something which occurs in the community of a historic Prophet when a contemporary Prophet visits them. The installation of the Prophet Muhammad on the pinnacle of history, on what the Quran calls “a position of praise and glory,”161 contributes to his being “a mercy for all nations.”162 Historically, the position of Muhammad as a Prophet of God cannot be questioned; that is the nature of his position of praise and glory in this world. On the Day of Resurrection, it will manifest as special divine favour being conferred upon him. It would be a mistake to think that the Prophet Muhammad’s elevation to such a position was a simple matter of selection. On the contrary, it was to bring a revolution in human history. Therefore, only an individual of the highest moral calibre, only one able to perform unparalleled feats of self-sacrifice and steadfastness, would be considered fit to be chosen. For this task, the Lord saw fit to call upon Muhammad: You who are wrapped up in your vestment arise and give warning. Magnify your Lord, cleanse your garments, and keep away from all pollution. Bestow no favours expecting a gain. Be patient, for your Lord’s sake.163