Why Should We Love the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?

In Islam, the love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is not merely an emotion but a core tenet of faith. As narrated in Sahih Bukhari, the Prophet himself stated, "None of you will be a believer until I am dearer to you than your parents, children, and all of mankind." (Hadith: 15). This profound declaration emphasizes that true belief is intertwined with deep affection and reverence for the Prophet (PBUH).

The Essence of Love for the Prophet (PBUH)

Renowned Islamic scholar Kazi Ayaz (RA) explained that "love for the Prophet (PBUH) is a condition for pure faith" (Fathul Bari: 1/59). This statement underscores the spiritual necessity of this love. Yet, one might wonder, how can love, an inherently personal and emotional feeling, be commanded? The Prophet (PBUH) himself acknowledged the complexity of human emotions in a prayer, saying, "O Allah, this [heart] is my portion, of which You are the owner. And do not reproach me for that which I am not the owner of" (Zawaidoos Sunan Alas Sahihain, Hadith: 4504).

Understanding the Nature of Love

Kazi Ayaz (RA) further elucidated that love is a natural inclination towards that which is favorable. It can arise from various factors: aesthetic pleasure, intellectual admiration, or gratitude for kindness. When reflecting on the life and character of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), one finds all these qualities abundantly present. His unmatched honesty, boundless grace, and exceptional beauty of character naturally draw the heart towards him.

If it is natural to admire a leader for their wisdom, a social reformer for their service, or a scholar for their knowledge, then it is even more natural to love the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who embodied all these virtues and more. His leadership was unparalleled, his social services were transformative, and his wisdom continues to enlighten millions across the globe.

How to Cultivate Love for the Prophet (PBUH)

Imam Ghazali (RA) once said, "Love cannot be imagined without recognition and acquaintance" (Al-Muhazaab Min Ihayi Ulumid Din: 2/364). This means that to truly love the Prophet (PBUH), one must first know him. Many who opposed him during his time did so out of ignorance. If they had taken the time to understand his message and character, their views would have been different.

A compelling example of this transformation is the story of Sumama, a leader of the Banu Hanifa tribe. Initially hostile towards the Prophet (PBUH), Sumama was captured and brought to the mosque in Medina, where he was tied to a pillar. The Prophet (PBUH) treated him with kindness and patience, asking him daily about his well-being. After three days, Sumama embraced Islam, saying, "O Muhammad, there was no face on earth more detested by me than yours, but now your face is the dearest of all to me" (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 4372). This profound change in Sumama’s heart came about because he was given the opportunity to truly know the Prophet (PBUH).

Similarly, after the conquest of Makkah, Hinda, the daughter of Utba, who once harbored deep animosity towards the Prophet (PBUH), declared, "O Messenger of Allah, I wished to humiliate everyone in your camp, but now honoring them is the dearest thing to me" (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 3825). Her transformation highlights how knowing the Prophet's (PBUH) noble character can lead even the staunchest opponents to love him.

Learning About the Prophet (PBUH) Today

While the companions of the Prophet (PBUH) had the unique privilege of knowing him personally, today's Muslims can cultivate their love for him by studying his life and teachings. Zainul Abedin (RA), the grandson of the Prophet (PBUH), emphasized the importance of learning about the Prophet’s life, saying, "We know the lessons and philosophy of the war life of the Prophet (PBUH) in the same way as we know the surahs of the Qur'an" (Al-Bidayah one-Nihaya: 3/242).

Ibnul Qayyim (RA) also stressed the significance of this study, stating that whoever makes the Prophet (PBUH) their teacher and role model must delve into his biography and ethics. By doing so, one can connect with the Prophet (PBUH) on a spiritual level, becoming a true follower in both faith and practice (Madarijus Salekin: 3/268).

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