Islam has received much attention these days. After languishing on the backburner as a religion of foreigners from sandy deserts far away, today one can hardly turn on the TV without a special documentary or a news segment on some aspect of Islam. Six million Americans claim Islam as their faith, joining their 1.2 billion brothers and sisters worldwide.
At the center of this faith is the belief in one God. Muslims believe that God has sent messengers to Earth throughout time, bearing the message of Islamic monotheism. The final Prophet of Islam was Muhammed. Although the Prophet lived and died in 7th century Arabia, his influence did not expire with him. Even today, his words and deeds inspire Muslims globally to strive for a better world.
The Prophet Muhammed was not simply a spiritual leader of a community. His influence was felt in every aspect of the Muslim community. If people had a question about government, they would refer it to the Prophet. If people were wondering the best way to treat their spouse, they would ask the Prophet Muhammed. From the Prophet's central role in the early Muslim community, modern day Muslims can find guidance for spiritual, intellectual and socio-political issues in their lives even today. Because of his leadership and wisdom, Muslims today have a vast resource on how to deal with any situation that may arise.
The following examples from the words and deeds of the Prophet Muhammed give a greater sense of who this man is. Advice on politics, religion and family are interspersed with gems of kindness and compassion that speak to the true character of the Prophet.
\No one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself.""
And: ""Worship the Merciful [Allah], feed the hungry and spread peace. You shall then enter Paradise in peace.""
The themes of compassion, equality and peace are strong in the actions of the Prophet. It is no wonder that one of the many names of Muhammed is Nabi ar-Rahma, or the Prophet of Mercy.
The words of the Prophet and his message from God have quashed the greed of a pop-star (Cat Stevens), soothed the arrogance of a sports legend (Muhammed Ali) and inspired a great civil rights activist (Malcolm X). Even 1,400 years later, the Prophet Muhammed's message remains relevant, and if anything, more crucial towards bringing a sense of peace and equality to the world.
""Do not consider any act of kindness insignificant, even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.""
If a smile is considered an act of charity, shouldn't we all be a little more charitable towards our fellow human beings?
http://www.sit.wisc.edu/~msa.
