Leadership Functions (Jules Masserman's View) : The Spirit of Islam
Leadership Functions (Jules Masserman's View) : The Spirit of Islam
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was a unique leader who did all three things Masserman says leaders
should do: he cared for his people’s needs, built a safe and strong community, and shared the beliefs
of Islam. He lived simply, was kind, brave, and loved by all. His smart teachings about hard work,
kindness, and fairness still guide people today. His perfect character and humble life made him
special, and Masserman calls him the greatest leader ever.
Jules Masserman, a history professor, says leaders have three main jobs: they must care for people’s
health and happiness, build a safe and organized community, and give people one clear set of beliefs to
follow.
For example, scientists like Pasteur and Salk helped people’s health, so they were leaders in the first
job.
People like Gandhi and Confucius made peaceful systems, while Alexander, Caesar, and Hitler built
systems too (some good, some bad), so they fit the second job and maybe the third. Jesus and Buddha
gave spiritual teachings, so they fit the third job.
Masserman says Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was the greatest leader because he did all three: he took
care of his people, built a strong community, and shared the beliefs of Islam.
The Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) lived a very simple life, as Syed Amir Ali writes in The Spirit of Islam. He
wore plain clothes, owned few things, and often ate only dates and water. Sometimes, he went without
food, and for months, his house had no fire for cooking because he had so little. Muslim historians say
God offered him the world’s wealth, but he refused it. Even though he came from a noble family, he
stayed humble and never acted proud. He was close to everyone and didn’t keep himself separate from
his friends.
People loved and respected the Prophet (PBUH) more than anyone else in history. His companions were
so devoted/ faithful/ loyal they would give their lives to protect even a small part of him, like a nail.
Those who knew him well were enchanted/ great pleasure by him and held him in the highest respect.
His charm and excellence were unmatched, and God gave him a special personality that no one else had.
His presence made people feel happy and proud.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) teachings were smart and fit for all times. He said people must keep trying in life,
saying, “Man cannot live without effort; I try, but God makes it happen.” He believed God runs the world
with wisdom, and everything happens at the right time, but people can choose their actions. He taught
that serving others is the best way to serve God. His ideas were modern and encouraged people to work
hard and think clearly.
The Prophet (PBUH) built a fair and united Muslim community. He made sure his people were safe and
guided them through tough times. He cared for his companions like family and never forgot those who
supported him early on, especially those who died in the Battle of Uhd. He spoke about them, prayed for
them, and visited their graves. His leadership made people feel secure and cared for.
The Prophet (PBUH) had perfect manners and character. He was honest, generous, gentle, and polite.
His life showed the teachings of the Quran, as Aisha (R.A) said, “His character was the Quran.” The
Quran itself praises him, saying he had a “wonderful and noble character.” He avoided showing off or
being too strict and chose a balanced way of life. He didn’t like people praising him too much or standing
up to honor him, staying humble always.
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was described by Umm Ma’bad Al-Khuza’iyah as bright and handsome
with a broad face. His manners were polite, and he had a balanced body—not too fat or thin, with a
well-shaped head and long, curly black hair. His black eyes were attractive with arched eyebrows, and
his voice was strong. He looked thoughtful and calm, inspiring respect from afar and love up close. His
speech was clear, like a string of beads, without extra words. He was medium height, always surrounded
by friends who listened carefully to him and followed his commands quickly. He was truthful, sincere,
and a great leader.
Caliph Ali (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) was medium height, not too tall or short. His hair was wavy, not
too curly or straight. His face was round, with a wide forehead and white teeth. He had big, black eyes
with long eyelashes and strong limbs. A fine line of hair ran from his chest to his navel, but his body was
mostly hairless. His hands and feet were thick, and he walked as if going uphill, lifting his feet. He turned
his whole body when looking around. The Seal of Prophethood was between his shoulders. He was the
last Prophet, very generous, brave, gentle, and polite. People trusted him completely, and he always
paid debts fully. Everyone who met him loved him, saying no one was like him before or after.
Jabir bin Samurah (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) had a broad face with wide, reddish eyes.
Abu Tufail (R.A) described him as white and good-looking, not fat or thin.
Anas bin Malik (R.A) said his skin was bright, not too white or brown, but whitish. At his death,
he had about twenty grey hairs in his head and beard, with some at his temples.
Abu Juhaifah (R.A) saw grey hair under his lower lip.
Al-Bara’ (R.A) said his face was the most handsome, round, and radiant like the moon, not sharp
like a sword.
Ar-Rabi’ bint Muawwidh (R.A) said seeing him was like seeing the sun shine.
Al-Bara’ (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) was medium height with hair reaching his earlobes. At
first, he let his hair hang loose to follow the People of the Book, but later he parted it.
Anas bin Malik (R.A) noted his hair had some grey by the time he passed away. His hair was
glossy, black, and slightly curly, as Umm Ma’bad described, worn long.
Jabir bin Samurah (R.A) added that he had lean heels, showing his balanced build.
Anas (R.A) said the Prophet’s (PBUH) hands were softer than silk, and his scent was sweeter
than any perfume, like musk or ambergris.
Abu Juhaifah (R.A) felt his hand was cooler than ice and smelled better than musk.
Jabir bin Samurah (R.A), as a child, felt his cheek was cold and scented like perfume.
Umm Sulaim (R.A) said his sweat smelled better than the finest perfume, like pearls. Jabir (R.A)
noted that his fragrance lingered on roads he passed, so people knew he had been there.
The Prophet (PBUH) had broad shoulders and thick palms, as Al-Bara’ (R.A) and Anas (R.A)
described.
His laughter was a gentle smile, not loud, said Jabir bin Samurah (R.A).
His eyes looked black from afar, though they weren’t. The Seal of Prophethood, a mark the size
of a pigeon’s egg with mole-like spots, was between his shoulders on the left side, a sign of his
role as the last Prophet.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was medium height, with a bright, round face, glossy curly hair, and big,
black eyes. His skin was whitish, and his face glowed like the moon or sun. He was strong yet
balanced, with soft hands and a sweet scent better than perfume. His walk was fast, and his manners
were gentle. The Seal of Prophethood marked him as the last Prophet. Companions loved his beauty,
kindness, and truthfulness, saying no one was like him before or after.
The Prophet (PBUH) was chosen by God, and all his sins were forgiven, but he still worked hard to
worship God with great effort and love. He was always eager / thirsty/ shoqeen to pray and show
gratitude to God, even though he didn’t need to. His devotion/aqeedat/commitment was so strong that
he spent much of his time in prayer, showing how much he loved and honored God.
Al-Mughira bin Sh’uba (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) once prayed at night for so long that his feet
swelled. When asked why he prayed so much since his sins were forgiven, he replied, “Why should I not
be a grateful servant of God?”
Syeda ‘Aisha (R.A) and Abu Dharr said he once stayed awake all night, reciting one verse over and over
until morning. The verse was about God’s power to punish or forgive, showing his deep focus on God’s
mercy and wisdom.
3. Fasting with Dedication
Syeda ‘Aisha (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) fasted so much that people thought he would never stop,
but sometimes he didn’t fast, making them think he might not fast again. His fasting showed his love for
God, but he balanced it with rest, teaching that devotion / aqeedat doesn’t always mean extreme effort.
4. Comfort in Prayer
The Prophet (PBUH) turned to God whenever he faced problems. His companions said he would
prostrate and pray when troubled. Abu Darda said during strong winds at night, he went to the mosque
to pray until it was calm. During solar or lunar eclipses, he prayed in fear, seeking God’s protection until
the sky cleared. He always wanted to be close to God, especially in hard times.
The Prophet (PBUH) was restless until he could pray again, as if he couldn’t wait to worship God. He
often asked Bilal to arrange prayers, saying, “Bilal, make arrangements for holding prayers and put me at
ease.” His love for God made him feel uneasy until he could stand in prayer, showing how much he
needed to connect with God.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) loved God deeply, praying for long hours, fasting with dedication, and
finding peace only in worship. Even though his sins were forgiven, he worked hard to show gratitude. He
turned to God in trouble, cried in prayer, and felt restless without it. His devotion, seen in his long
prayers and eagerness to worship, made him a perfect example of love for God.
Words cannot fully describe how little the Prophet (PBUH) cared for money, wealth, or worldly things.
His companions and their followers learned from him to ignore riches and live simple, pure lives. They
gave generously, preferred others over themselves, and were content with very little, showing amazing
selflessness. The Prophet’s noble heart and generous nature inspired them to care more about God than
material things, setting a powerful example for all.
2. Sayings Showing His Attitude Toward the World
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “O God, life is truly the life of the hereafter!” and “What have I to do with the
World! My only business with it is like a rider who rests under a tree, then leaves it.” These words show
he saw this world as temporary and unimportant compared to the afterlife. He lived for God, not for
wealth or comfort.
Hazrat Umar (R.A) saw the Prophet (PBUH) lying on a reed mat that left marks on his body and cried at
his simple life. Umar said kings like Caesar and Chosroes lived in luxury, but the Prophet, God’s most
honored, did not. The Prophet (PBUH) got upset and said, “Umar, do you doubt?” He explained that
those kings got their rewards in this world, but he chose simplicity for God’s sake.
The Prophet (PBUH) didn’t just live simply himself—he wanted the same for his family. He prayed, “O
God, make the provision of Muhammad’s family sufficient only to sustain life.” Syeda Aisha (R.A) said
they often lived on just dates and water, with no fire lit in their home for cooking. Hazrat Abu Hurairah
(R.A) said the Prophet and his family never had wheat bread for three days straight until he passed
away.
The Prophet (PBUH) pawned his coat of mail to a Jew for money and couldn’t afford to get it back before
he passed away. During his Farewell Pilgrimage, when all of Arabia followed him, his camel’s saddle was
old and covered with a cheap sheet worth only four dirhams. He prayed, “O Allah, make it a hajj devoid
of all pretentions and show,” showing he cared nothing for worldly display.
6. Extreme Generosity
The Prophet (PBUH) never said “No” when asked for something, as Jabir bin ‘Abdullah said. Ibn ‘Abbas
said he gave more generously than the fastest wind. Once, he gave a man a huge flock of sheep filling
the space between two hills. The man told his people, “Embrace Islam, Muhammad gives so freely, like
he’s not afraid of poverty.” Another time, he received 90,000 dirhams, piled them on a mat, and gave
them all away to those who asked, leaving nothin
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) cared little for wealth, living a simple life despite being God’s chosen. He
taught that the afterlife matters more than this world, living on minimal food and possessions. He
pawned his coat, used a worn saddle, and gave generously, never saying “No” to those in need. His
family lived simply too, often eating just dates and water. His selfless example inspired his companions
to value God over worldly things.
3. PROPHET MOHAMMED'S NATURAL DISPOSITION
1. Deep Love for God and Prayer
The Prophet (PBUH) loved God so much that he prayed for long hours, even more than hermits who give
up everything. He spent time in prayers, supplications, and crying to God, showing his strong devotion.
Yet, he was always kind, polite, and fair to everyone, welcoming people based on their status. He once
told Anas, “If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and cry a lot,” showing his deep awareness
of the afterlife.
The Prophet (PBUH) came from a noble family but was very humble, kind, and sweet. He stayed close to
his companions, never keeping distance. He loved children, often holding them in his lap, and ate with
poor people, servants, and slaves. He visited the sick, even far away, and forgave mistakes easily. He
never stretched his legs when sitting with others to avoid making anyone uncomfortable, showing his
care for their feelings.
‘Abdullah bin al-Harith said the Prophet (PBUH) smiled more than anyone, always cheerful. Jabir bin
Samurah said he joined the Prophet’s gatherings over a hundred times, where companions shared
poems or stories, and the Prophet listened quietly or smiled at funny moments. Sharid said the Prophet
asked him to recite poetry by Umayya bin Abi as-Salt, showing his openness and friendly nature.
The Prophet (PBUH) was very kind to his family and children. Anas bin Malik saw him call for his
grandsons, Hasan and Husayn, kissing and hugging them. Syeda Fatima (R.A) said when Zayd bin Haritha
visited, the Prophet rushed to greet him, even without proper clothes, shaking hands and kissing him.
When his daughter’s son was dying, he held the boy in his lap, crying, and said, “God shows compassion
to those who are compassionate.” He told a Bedouin who didn’t kiss his children, “What can I do if God
has taken compassion from your heart?”
The Prophet (PBUH) treated all Muslims like family, acting like a caring father or mother. He didn’t care
about their wealth, only about easing their troubles and paying their debts. He said, “If someone leaves
property, it goes to their heirs, but their debts are my responsibility.” He also said, “No Muslim has a
closer helper than me,” promising to help anyone who owed money after death.
The Prophet (PBUH) was fair, even with his family. When his uncle Abbas was a prisoner after the Battle
of Badr and groaned in pain, the Prophet couldn’t sleep. The Ansar freed Abbas, but when asked to let
him go without ransom, the Prophet refused to treat him differently from other prisoners. His heart was
pure, with no ill-will, and he told his companions, “Don’t speak badly of others to me, for I want to meet
you with a clean heart.”
The Prophet (PBUH) loved prayer but was considerate of others. ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud said he spaced
out his teachings so people wouldn’t get tired. If he heard a child cry during prayer, he shortened it to
avoid distressing the mother. Once, someone complained about long prayers, and the Prophet got
angry, saying, “Some of you scare people away. Whoever leads prayer should keep it short, as there are
weak, old, and busy people.”
The Prophet (PBUH) was patient with his community, even when they were tired or bored. Anas said he
greeted children playing and asked about their lives, like joking with a boy about his bird. When
Anjasha’s singing made camels go too fast, disturbing women, the Prophet gently said, “Gently, Anjasha,
don’t break the glass vessels.” His kind leadership made everyone feel cared for and respected.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) loved God deeply, praying and crying for the afterlife, yet he was humble,
kind, and fair to all. He treated his companions and children with love, forgave mistakes, and cared for
the poor and sick. He was cheerful, smiled often, and listened to others patiently. He treated Muslims
like family, paid their debts, and kept prayers short for their comfort. His pure heart and gentle
leadership made him a perfect example for all.
The Prophet (PBUH) had a kind and balanced character that set an example for all time. He was
moderate, graceful, and polite, always choosing the middle path. Syeda Aisha (R.A) said he picked the
easier option when choosing between two things, as long as it wasn’t sinful. If it was wrong, he stayed
far away from it. He disliked showing off or being too strict with himself, believing people should care for
both their body and soul.
2. Teachings on Moderation
The Prophet (PBUH) taught that religion should be easy, not hard. Abu Hurairah (R.A) said he advised,
“Religion is simple, but don’t overdo it, or it will tire you out. Stay balanced, be cheerful, and pray in the
morning, evening, and night to stay strong.” He also said, “Do only what you can handle, because God
won’t tire, but you will.” Ibn ‘Abbas said the Prophet (PBUH) told someone that God loves a religion of
ease and sincerity.
3. Warning Against Extremes
The Prophet (PBUH) warned against being too strict or fussy. ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud said he called people
who overdo things, act harshly, or focus on tiny details “doomed.” He told his companions who taught
others, “Make things easy, not hard. Make people happy, don’t scare them away.” He wanted everyone
to follow a simple and kind path.
The Prophet (PBUH) believed in enjoying God’s gifts in moderation. ‘Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin al-‘As said he
taught, “God likes to see His blessings on His servant.” This meant people should use what God gives
them, like food or clothes, without pride or waste, showing gratitude through a balanced life.
At home, the Prophet (PBUH) acted like an ordinary person. Syeda Aisha (R.A) said he cleaned his
clothes, milked sheep, mended his shoes, and fixed his clothes himself. He stayed busy with household
chores and only left for prayers. He didn’t expect special treatment and worked like everyone else in his
home.
6. Kindness to Family
The Prophet (PBUH) was very gentle and kind at home. Syeda Aisha (R.A) called him the softest-hearted
person. Anas bin Malik said no one was kinder to their family than him. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The
best of you is the kindest to his wife and children, and I am the kindest among you.” He showed love and
care to his family, setting an example for others.
Abu Hurairah (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) never complained about food. If he liked it, he ate it; if he
didn’t, he left it without saying anything bad. His simple and polite attitude toward food showed his
moderation and gratitude for what he had.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was moderate, kind, and polite, always choosing a balanced path. He
taught that religion should be easy, warned against being too strict, and encouraged enjoying God’s
blessings humbly. At home, he did chores like cleaning and mending clothes, showing humility. He was
very kind to his family and never fussed about food, living simply and gratefully as an example for all.
The Prophet (PBUH) had a kind and balanced character that set an example for all time. He was
moderate, graceful, and polite, always choosing the middle path. Syeda Aisha (R.A) said he picked the
easier option when choosing between two things, as long as it wasn’t sinful. If it was wrong, he stayed
far away from it. He disliked showing off or being too strict with himself, believing people should care for
both their body and soul.
2. Teachings on Moderation
The Prophet (PBUH) taught that religion should be easy, not hard. Abu Hurairah (R.A) said he advised,
“Religion is simple, but don’t overdo it, or it will tire you out. Stay balanced, be cheerful, and pray in the
morning, evening, and night to stay strong.” He also said, “Do only what you can handle, because God
won’t tire, but you will.” Ibn ‘Abbas said the Prophet (PBUH) told someone that God loves a religion of
ease and sincerity.
The Prophet (PBUH) warned against being too strict or fussy. ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud said he called people
who overdo things, act harshly, or focus on tiny details “doomed.” He told his companions who taught
others, “Make things easy, not hard. Make people happy, don’t scare them away.” He wanted everyone
to follow a simple and kind path.
The Prophet (PBUH) believed in enjoying God’s gifts in moderation. ‘Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin al-‘As said he
taught, “God likes to see His blessings on His servant.” This meant people should use what God gives
them, like food or clothes, without pride or waste, showing gratitude through a balanced life.
At home, the Prophet (PBUH) acted like an ordinary person. Syeda Aisha (R.A) said he cleaned his
clothes, milked sheep, mended his shoes, and fixed his clothes himself. He stayed busy with household
chores and only left for prayers. He didn’t expect special treatment and worked like everyone else in his
home.
6. Kindness to Family
The Prophet (PBUH) was very gentle and kind at home. Syeda Aisha (R.A) called him the softest-hearted
person. Anas bin Malik said no one was kinder to their family than him. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The
best of you is the kindest to his wife and children, and I am the kindest among you.” He showed love and
care to his family, setting an example for others.
Abu Hurairah (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) never complained about food. If he liked it, he ate it; if he
didn’t, he left it without saying anything bad. His simple and polite attitude toward food showed his
moderation and gratitude for what he had.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was moderate, kind, and polite, always choosing a balanced path. He
taught that religion should be easy, warned against being too strict, and encouraged enjoying God’s
blessings humbly. At home, he did chores like cleaning and mending clothes, showing humility. He was
very kind to his family and never fussed about food, living simply and gratefully as an example for all.
The Prophet (PBUH) had huge responsibilities: sharing God’s truth, guiding people to be good,
protecting the new Muslim community, and caring for suffering people. These tasks were very hard, but
he stayed kind and graceful. Even with all his worries, he showed a noble heart full of goodness, proving
his worthiness and love for others despite his strong focus on his mission.
The Prophet (PBUH) never forgot his loyal companions who died in the Battle of Uhd for Islam. He often
talked about them, prayed for their blessings, and visited their graves. Anas bin Malik, Abi Humayd, and
others said he loved Mount Uhd, saying, “This hill loves me, and I love it.” ‘Uqba and Jabir bin ‘Abdullah
said he prayed for the martyrs’ salvation and wished to be with them, showing his deep love for those
who sacrificed their lives.
The Prophet (PBUH) stayed calm when his uncle and foster-brother Hazrat Hamza (R.A) was killed in
Uhd, even after his body was mistreated. But when he passed by the houses of Bani Abdul Ashhal and
heard women mourning their dead, he cried for Hamza, saying, “There are no women to mourn over
Hamza.” His tears showed his love, but he never let his feelings interfere with his mission or God’s rules.
When S’ad bin Mu’adh and Usayd bin Hudayr heard the Prophet’s (PBUH) grief for Hamza, they told
their women to mourn for him. The women wept at the mosque door, and the Prophet thanked them,
saying, “May God have mercy on you, go back; your presence is enough.” He praised the Ansar’s love
but clarified, “I didn’t mean that. I don’t like mourning over the dead,” and later forbade it to follow
God’s guidance.
After the conquest of Makkah, many former enemies, including Wahshi, who killed Hamza, accepted
Islam. They feared for their lives, but friends said, “Muhammad doesn’t kill those who join his religion.”
Wahshi told the Prophet (PBUH) how he killed Hamza, and though it hurt him deeply, he didn’t punish
or reject Wahshi. He only said, “Hide your face from me and don’t let me see you again.” Wahshi
avoided him out of respect, showing the Prophet’s ability to forgive for the sake of Islam.
The Prophet (PBUH) showed his tender heart when he visited his mother Amina’s (R.A) old grave, 57
years after her death. He was deeply moved and upset, saying, “This is the grave of Amina.” His
companions saw his strong emotions, revealing his warm and loving nature, even after so long, for
someone so dear to him.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) carried heavy responsibilities but showed a noble and kind heart. He loved
the Uhd martyrs, often praying for them and cherishing the hill where they died. He cried for his uncle
Hamza but forbade excessive mourning to follow God’s rules. He forgave Wahshi, Hamza’s killer, for
joining Islam, and showed deep emotion at his mother’s grave. His sublime instincts balanced love and
duty, making him a perfect example.
Hind bin Abi Hala said the Prophet (PBUH) was always thinking about the afterlife, often staying silent
for long periods. He never spoke without a reason. When he talked, his words were clear, not too long
or too short, and easy to understand. He was kind and soft-spoken, never harsh or rude. He didn’t
humiliate anyone or want disrespect for himself. He valued even small things and never criticized food
or got angry about worldly matters. But if someone disrespected God, he became very upset until justice
was done. For wrongs done to himself, he never got angry.
The Prophet (PBUH) used his whole hand to point at things and turned his hand over when surprised.
When talking, he tapped his left palm on his right thumb. When angry, he looked away, and when
happy, he looked down. His laughter was just a gentle smile, showing his white teeth like bright
hailstones. His kind and calm gestures made people feel comfortable and respected around him.
Caliph Ali (R.A) said the Prophet (PBUH) never used bad words, cursed, or did shameful things. He didn’t
shout in public, return evil with evil, or hit anyone except in defense of God’s cause. He forgave and
forgot wrongs done to him. He never hit a servant or woman and only got angry if God’s honor was at
stake. When given two choices, he picked the easier one. At home, he acted like an ordinary person,
cleaning his clothes, milking sheep, and doing chores.
4. Caring and Respectful Leader
The Prophet (PBUH) spoke only when needed, comforting people with his words instead of scaring
them. He honored important visitors from other tribes and gave them respected roles. He was careful in
judging people but always kind and polite. He kept his companions updated on events and asked about
their lives. He praised good actions and criticized bad ones, staying balanced and fair. He was prepared
for any situation, never careless, and always did what was right without going too far. His companions
were good people, and he valued those who were kind and helpful the most.
The Prophet (PBUH) always mentioned God’s name when standing or sitting and sat at the back of
gatherings, encouraging others to do the same. He gave everyone in his meetings equal attention,
making each person feel special. He listened patiently to anyone who spoke or asked for help, never
letting them leave without help or kind words. His kindness made everyone feel like he was their father.
His gatherings were full of knowledge, modesty, and honesty. People spoke softly, respected elders,
cared for the young, helped those in need, and protected strangers.
The Prophet (PBUH) was always cheerful, kind, and gentle. He never spoke harshly, loudly, or said
anything rude. He didn’t find fault with others or act stingy. If he didn’t like a request, he quietly ignored
it instead of saying no. He stayed away from arguments, pride, and useless tasks. He never spoke badly
of anyone, gossiped, or looked for others’ mistakes. He only talked about good things. When he spoke,
everyone listened quietly, and no one argued in his presence. He smiled at funny things and showed
surprise when others did, making people feel at ease.
The Prophet (PBUH) was patient with strangers, even if they were rude, until his companions stepped in.
He encouraged helping those in need and only accepted modest praise. He never interrupted others and
stopped anyone who spoke too much. He was the most generous, truthful, kind, and friendly person.
People who saw him first felt awed, but after knowing him, they loved him like a close friend. Those who
described him said no one was like him before or after.
God gave the Prophet (PBUH) a special and impressive look. Hind bin Abi Hala said he was graceful,
splendid, and pleasing to see, with a face that shone like a full moon. His appearance blended beauty,
elegance, and strength, making him stand out. People were drawn to his charm and respected him
deeply for his noble presence.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) had a noble character, marked by kindness, humility, and patience. He
spoke clearly and gently, never used bad words, and forgave easily. He was a fair leader who cared for
everyone equally, listened patiently, and helped those in need. His cheerful and modest nature made
people love him like family. His graceful appearance and shining face, like a full moon, reflected his
unique and God-given qualities, making him a timeless example for all.
The Prophet (PBUH) always put his family first when facing danger but last when giving rewards. In the
Battle of Badr, when three strong Quraish fighters challenged Muslims to single combat, he sent his
uncle Hazrat Hamza (R.A), his cousin Ali (R.A), and Hazrat Ubayda (R.A), all from his own Banu Hashim
clan. He loved them dearly but chose them to face the risk instead of others, even though there were
many brave Muslims. Hamza and Ali won and returned safely, but Ubayda was badly hurt.
During the Farewell Pilgrimage, the Prophet (PBUH) canceled usury (interest on loans) and old blood
vengeance from before Islam. He started with his own family, abolishing the usury of his uncle Abbas bin
Abdul Muttalib and the blood vengeance for the son of Rabi’a bin al-Harith, killed by Banu Hudhayl. By
putting his family first in ending these practices, he showed fairness and avoided favoring his own
relatives.
Unlike kings or leaders who favor their families, the Prophet (PBUH) gave gifts and rewards to others
first. When Syeda Fatima (R.A) asked for a servant to help with her hard work grinding corn, he didn’t
give her one. Hazrat Ali (R.A) said Fatima spoke to Syeda Aisha (R.A), who told the Prophet about her
struggle. He visited them at night and, instead of giving a servant, taught them to say “Subhan Allah” 33
times, “Alhamdu lilah” 33 times, and “Allah-o-Akbar” 34 times before bed, saying this was better than a
servant.
The Prophet (PBUH) explained why he didn’t give Syeda Fatima (R.A) a servant, saying, “By God, I cannot
give you anything when my companions of Suffa are hungry and I have nothing to help them.” He
planned to sell the slave girls to provide for the poor Suffa companions instead. This showed he cared
more about the needs of others than his own family’s comfort, putting their well-being first.
Summary
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was selfless, always putting his family first in danger but last in rewards. In
the Battle of Badr, he sent his closest relatives to fight. He canceled usury and blood vengeance starting
with his own family to be fair. When Syeda Fatima asked for a servant, he taught her prayers instead,
saving resources for the hungry. His selflessness put others’ needs above his own family’s, making him a
true example of fairness and care.
Below is the text arranged in paragraphs with clear headings, using simple and easy-to-
understand words while keeping all the original details intact. The content is organized to be
clear and accessible for everyone.
The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had extraordinary qualities that made him perfect. He
was raised and guided by Allah Himself, who praised him in the Quran: “And verily, you (O
Muhammad) are on an exalted standard of character.” His kindness, honesty, and noble behavior
made people feel close to him and love him. These qualities were so special that even those who
opposed him softened their hearts, and many people embraced Islam in large groups because of
his beautiful character.
Beyond Description
No one can fully describe the greatness of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He was the most perfect
person in the world, and no one can know or explain all his amazing qualities. His life was
always guided by Allah’s light, and he lived completely according to the teachings of the Quran.
The description here is just a small glimpse of his perfection.
Syed Ameer Ali, in his book Spirit of Islam, beautifully described the Prophet’s manners. His
entire life was devoted to serving Allah and helping people. Despite facing many challenges, he
remained pure and strong. He started as a humble preacher but became the leader of Arabia,
equal to great kings like Chosroes and Caesar. Yet, he stayed humble, kind, and devoted to his
duties. Known as Al-Amin (the trustworthy), he was honest, brave, and gentle. His pure and
heroic nature inspired both respect and love. Arabian writers proudly wrote about his grace and
wisdom.
Kindness to All
The Prophet (PBUH) treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was polite to important
people, friendly to the humble, and firm with those who were rude, earning admiration from all.
His kind face showed the love in his heart. Though he couldn’t read or write, he understood life
deeply and could connect with both educated and simple people. His majestic presence made
everyone who met him feel respect and love. He was gentle, patient, and truthful, and his
qualities were often mentioned in stories about him.
The Prophet (PBUH) was very kind to those below him. His servant Anas said, “I served the
Prophet for ten years, and he never scolded me, not even once.” He loved his family deeply and
was heartbroken when one of his sons died in his arms. He adored children, stopping to pat their
cheeks in the streets. He never hit anyone in his life, and the harshest thing he said was, “What’s
wrong with him? May his forehead be darkened with mud.” When asked to curse someone, he
replied, “I was sent to be a mercy, not to curse.”
The Prophet (PBUH) lived simply, mending his own clothes, milking his goats, and serving
himself. He visited the sick, attended every funeral he saw, and even accepted dinner invitations
from slaves. He was patient, never pulling his hand away first during a handshake, and always let
others turn away before him. His hand was generous, his heart brave, and his words truthful. He
was a loyal protector and pleasant to talk to. People who met him said, “I’ve never seen anyone
like him before or after.” He spoke little, but his words were clear, meaningful, and
unforgettable.
The Prophet (PBUH) cared deeply for others, sharing his food even when he had little. He
listened to the sorrows of the poorest and visited the homes of the lowliest to comfort those who
were sad or suffering. Slaves could take his hand and ask for help to gain justice or freedom. He
always prayed before eating and thanked Allah afterward. He spent his days meeting people and
handling public matters, while at night he prayed a lot and slept little. He loved the poor and
invited them to eat with him, while his followers cared for others who slept in the mosque near
his home.
Even toward his worst enemies, the Prophet (PBUH) showed kindness and forgiveness. He was
strict with those who harmed the state but gentle with those who insulted him personally. When
he won battles, he forgave those who had hurt him, letting go of all anger. His mercy and
patience, even in victory, showed his pure heart and made him a unique leader.
Eternal Love for the Prophet (PBUH)
Fourteen centuries have passed since the Prophet (PBUH) shared his message, but people still
love him just as much. Muslims around the world honor him with the words, “May my life be
thy sacrifice, O Prophet of God.” His life, filled with kindness, wisdom, and devotion, continues
to inspire and guide people today, just as it did in his time.