An Example of Noble Character

MERCY TO THE WORLDS open the way for monotheism. The fact that the Prophet of Monotheism was born precisely in the Year of the Elephant is a remarkable example of divine planning. 2. The Prophet of Islam was given the opportunity to begin sharing his spiritual teachings—centered on awareness of the divine and the principle of human brotherhood—with the people of Makkah. Makkah had become the center of Arab leadership as a result of centuries of historical development. It was a hub of international trade and political relations. As a result, individuals of intellectual and leadership stature resided there, such as Abu Bakr ibn Abi Quhafa and Umar ibn al-Khattab. Securing the support of such prominent figures was essential for religious freedom to take root and for the Godly movement to advance. Indeed, most of the key historical figures of the early Islamic community were from Makkah. This reality is reflected in the Prophet’s prayer: “O God, strengthen Islam through Abu al-Hakam ibn Hisham or Umar ibn al-Khattab” (Seerah Ibn Hisham, Vol. 1, p. 296). However, for the people of Makkah, the existing religious tradition was closely tied to economic interest. In order to attract all Arab tribes, the Quraysh had placed 360 idols— each representing different tribes—inside the Kaaba, which had originally been built by the Prophet Abraham as a center of monotheism. These tribes visited Makkah throughout the year, boosting its trade. The visits of these tribes had an economic function similar to that of tourists visiting a modern country. Just as tourism