Today, on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, 1447, Muslims worldwide commemorate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a figure whose life continues to shape faith, law, morality, and civilization across the globe.
Born in Mecca around 570 CE, Muhammad rose from humble origins to become a trusted merchant, a moral reformer, a state-builder, and a messenger of God.
Within just 23 years of public mission, he united the deeply divided tribes of Arabia under a shared vision of monotheism, justice, and community welfare – a transformation that historians describe as unparalleled in human history.
From his first revelation in 610 CE in the Cave of Hira to the Hijrah (migration) to Medina in 622 CE – the very event that anchors the Islamic calendar – Muhammad’s leadership combined profound spiritual insight with practical governance.
In Medina, he drafted a pluralistic civic agreement, often called the Charter of Medina, granting rights and responsibilities to Muslims, Jews, and allied tribes, setting a precedent for coexistence centuries ahead of its time.
By the year 630 CE, the Prophet returned to Mecca not with revenge but with amnesty, cleansing the Kaʿbah of idols while forgiving former foes – a decision that scholars cite as one of history’s most remarkable acts of mercy in victory.
Renowned thinkers, both Muslim and non-Muslim, have testified to his greatness.
Scottish philosopher Thomas Carlyle wrote in On Heroes (1841): “The lies… heaped round this man are disgraceful to ourselves only.”
Historian Michael H. Hart, in his influential book The 100 (1978), ranked Muhammad first, noting he was “supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels.”
French writer Alphonse de Lamartine observed: “If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astonishing results are the criteria of genius, who could compare with Muhammad?”
Contemporary scholar Karen Armstrong adds: “Muhammad was a dazzling success, politically as well as spiritually… Islam went from strength to strength.”
As the world reflects on his birthday today, the legacy of Prophet Muhammad remains a living example of leadership rooted in compassion, courage, justice, and wisdom.
His message bridged tribes, built institutions, advanced women’s rights, outlawed infanticide, promoted literacy, and called for social equity.
At a time of global uncertainty, his life story is not merely a matter of faith; it is a reminder of what principled leadership can achieve: a community built on mercy, truth, and human dignity – values still urgently needed in our world today.