Page 32 - World Religions I - Islam

o Based on the context of the passage, this term may just as easily indicate that
Muhammad, though literate, was ignorant of Jewish and Christian teaching.
• A third possibility is that al-ummi may be derived from the root word umma, which means "nation" or
"community". In this case, the text would mean that Muhammad was a prophet of the nation (of the
Arabs) as opposed to one of Jewish lineage. Numerous passages in the Qur'an highlight with pride the
claim that Muhammad is a prophet from the Arab people - and especially the belief that he is the final
apostle through whom God has sent his final, incorruptible word to the Arabs. In light of these other
passage, this third possiblity is not unlikely.
• The Qur'an bestows the title of "Seal of the Prophets" (Khatim an- Nabiyiin) upon Muhammad.
o "Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the
Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things." - Al-Ahzab (The Confederates)
33:40 (trans. Yusuf Ali)While the context in the Qur'an is not entirely clear in meaning, Muslims
traditionally agree that Muhammad received the final revelation in the form of the Qur'an.
• There are a number of Hadith where Muhammad claims to be the final prophet, and that none will
succeed him.
o Both the Qur'an and the Hadith indicate that before Muhammad's prophetic claim to office, none
of his people had made the claim before him.81 82
• Unlike prior prophets, Muhammad was not gifted with miracles. In sharp contrast to the teachings of the Qur'an,
many Muslim traditions speak of Muhammad performing different kinds of miracles, including providing water
from his fingertips, multiplication of food, temporarily splitting the moon in two, being spoken to by food, curing of
diseases, filling a water well by spitting into it, and more.
• "But it is clear revelations in the hearts of those who have been given knowledge, and none deny
Our revelations save wrong- doers. But they say, 'Why are not signs sent down to him from his Lord?'
Say, 'The signs are only with Allah, and I am only a clear warner.'" - Al-Ankaboot (The Spider) 29:49-50
(trans. Pickthall)
o The following surahs defend the idea that even if Allah had given Muhammad the power
to perform miracles, the people still not believe: 6:109-112; 17:92-97.
• When questioned about this inconsistency, Muhammad replied that the "divine inspiration" of the
Qur'an was his miracle.83
• Traditionally every mention of Muhammad's name or title is followed by an invocation by Muslims out of respect for
his prophethood.
• Salla-Llahu 'alayhi wa-sallam ("God bless him and give him peace")
o This is generally presented in writing as such: "The Prophet (SAW) said..."
• 'Alayi-s-salam ("Peace be upon him")
o This is generally presented in writing as such: "The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) traveled to
Yathrib..."
The Character of Muhammad

Muslims have a very high portrayal of Muhammad. While most will surely admit that he was just a man, Islamic culture
leans dangerously close to the deification of their beloved prophet. Muslim apologists insist that only by reading one of
the trusted biographies of Muhammad can one adequately grasp "the impeccable character, personal integrity, and
deep- seated love, affection, mercy, and tenderheartedness that comprise the more personal aspects of the Prophet's
life." 84

• The Qur'an espouses Muhammad's character. Keep in mind that Muhammad is the one doing the reporting of what
Allah allegedly said to him.
o "And indeed, you are of a great moral character." - Al-Qalam (The Pen) 68:4 (trans. Sahih)
• Islamic traditions often extol the virtues of Muhammad as "the sublimest among people in character," "the

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