An Example of Noble Character

STUDYING THE PROPHET’S BIOGRAPHY The Prophet of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad, is a remarkable figure in history. He is the only person whose life embodies all the finest qualities of humanity in their fullest form. Studying his life essentially entails a study of perfect humanity. The Quran refers to this in the verse: “Indeed, you are of a great moral character.” (68:4) The Prophet of Islam is a remarkable figure in history. He is the only person whose life embodies all the finest qualities of humanity in their fullest form. Studying his life essentially entails a study of perfect humanity. The life of the Prophet is like a comprehensive human Encyclopedia. It encompasses not only the various dimensions of human life but also displays an extraordinary relevance to all eras. However, studying the Prophet’s life cannot be done in the simplistic style of looking up words in a dictionary. When using a dictionary, we simply search for the desired word in alphabetical order and find its meaning. The study of the Prophet’s life, however, cannot be done merely by opening books of Hadith and Seerah and browsing the relevant chapters. Such an approach does not amount to a complete understanding of the Prophet’s life. The Quran states: “Indeed, in the Messenger of God there is an excellent example for you—for the one who hopes in God and the Last Day and remembers God often.” (33:21)