Author: Shukran Ahmadi
Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) Approach to handling adversaries (1st part)
Abstract
Undoubtedly, if we explore the history of humanity, we will find that the sixth century of the Hijri era, known as the time of Arab ignorance, held a significant place in the attention of world historians and historiographers. The biographies of that era describe moments of humiliation, ignorance, and spiritual decline. In the words of Allameh Nadwi, may Allah have mercy on him: “The world of that time resembled a building severely shaken by strong earthquakes, where nothing remained in its place. In that society, the value of human life diminished, minds seemed lost, thoughts were confused, morals corrupted, and the cruel were esteemed as judges. Criminals were considered fortunate, while the virtuous were seen as deprived and wretched. The level of callousness led to heinous acts like killing children and burying them alive.”
Each facet of this tumultuous existence beckoned a unique reformer, distinctive from others, like Muhammad bin Abdullah, peace be upon him. He emerged as a reformer who, under heavenly guidance and with meticulous training, correct moral conduct, tolerance, and effective engagement with friends and foes, breathed life into a dying humanity. Consequently, this article aims to portray a concise account of the Holy Prophet’s (peace be upon him) interactions with opponents, offering a profound lesson for the world and its inhabitants.
A Brief Description of the Prophet of Islam’s Characteristics
The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, shone like the sun after a night of darkness, illuminating the world with a new light and restoring vitality to oppressed and vulnerable humanity. He bestowed the noble virtues of honor, dignity, justice, and freedom upon those who only knew oppression, tyranny, barbarity, and cruelty.
Sent as a cloud of mercy to the world, he became a true beacon of compassion and kindness. His mercy extended to friends and foes alike, nourishing all from his boundless wellspring. The Prophet embodied mercy, compassion, kindness, benevolence, and friendship. Muhammad Mustafa, peace be upon him, was the compassionate soul awaited by the oppressed, offering a message of peace and solace that liberated them. He released the impoverished from bondage, unshackling them from the chains of slavery. Standing atop Mount Musharraf in Makkah, he proclaimed the ethos of justice and monotheism to the ears of the arrogant oppressors, inviting them with kindness, compassion, and benevolence to his blessed message.
With unwavering courage, he publicly worshipped the one Allah and guided the servants of Allah from self-centered subjugation to submission and obedience to the One Creator. Enduring all hardships with patience, he nurtured the seeds of faith sown in the hearts of believers, reiterating to the representatives of Quraysh: “O uncle, I swear by Allah, even if they place the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left, I will not abandon this cause until Allah establishes it or I perish for it.” His resoluteness in the propagation of the truth shattered all illusions, unwavering in his belief, for the Lord of the Universe was his pillar of support and protection.
The Prophet of Islam, peace be upon him, with his astute political insight and exceptional persona, defied hatred with love, replaced disdain with respect, and transformed enmity and war into peace and camaraderie. Through his words, actions, and exemplary conduct, he revolutionized societal norms, influencing both supporters and opponents alike. He earned their reverence through tolerance, patience, and integrity, securing a place in the hearts of all.
