Understanding the Last Sermon of Prophet Muhammad

In the 10th year of Hijri, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) intended to perform Hajj, which is the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. This year is significant as it marks the first and only Hajj performed by the Prophet after the establishment of Islam. His pilgrimage served as a model for Muslims, emphasizing the importance of Hajj as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The event not only fulfilled a religious obligation but also reinforced the unity of the Muslim community and showcased the rituals of Hajj that are followed by Muslims today.

In his last sermon, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of treating women with respect and dignity, highlighting their rights within the marital relationship. He underscored that women have specific rights over their husbands, which includes fair treatment, kindness, and support. This message aimed to elevate the status of women in society and ensure their well-being, countering prevailing attitudes of inferiority and neglect. By affirming these rights, the Prophet sought to promote a more equitable and respectful dynamic between men and women.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the fundamental principle of equality among all Muslims, regardless of race or social status. In his final sermon, he stated that no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, and no white person is superior to a black person, highlighting that piety and good deeds are the true measures of a person's worth. This teaching promotes unity and brotherhood, reinforcing the idea that all Muslims are equal in the eyes of God, transcending racial and ethnic differences.

In his last sermon, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized the prohibition of interest (riba) in financial transactions, highlighting its exploitative nature. This prohibition aims to promote fairness and justice in economic dealings, ensuring that wealth is not accumulated at the expense of others. By banning riba, the Prophet sought to establish a just financial system that encourages generosity and mutual support within the community, fostering economic stability and social harmony.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of the Quran and Sunnah as the primary sources of guidance for Muslims. The Quran is the holy book believed to be the literal word of God, providing spiritual, moral, and legal guidance. The Sunnah encompasses the practices, teachings, and sayings of the Prophet, serving as a practical example of how to implement the principles outlined in the Quran. Together, they form a comprehensive framework for living a life in accordance with Islamic teachings.

The Prophet's last message emphasized the importance of monotheism, directing followers to worship Allah alone. This teaching reinforces the core tenet of Islam, which is the belief in the oneness of God. By prioritizing the worship of Allah, the message discourages the veneration of other beings, such as angels or saints, thus maintaining the purity of faith and devotion. This principle serves as a foundation for Islamic practice, ensuring that all acts of worship are directed solely towards the Creator.

Abu Bakr's reaction to the Prophet's statement about his impending death was one of deep sorrow and emotional distress. As a close companion and confidant of the Prophet Muhammad, he felt a profound sense of loss at the thought of losing someone who had been a guiding light and source of strength for him and the Muslim community. His tears reflected not only personal grief but also the weight of the responsibility that would fall on the community in the Prophet's absence. This emotional response underscores the deep bond and respect Abu Bakr had for the Prophet.

The Prophet Muhammad passed away at the age of 63, which is widely accepted based on historical accounts and Islamic tradition. His life spanned significant events, including the revelation of the Quran and the establishment of the Muslim community. This age is often referenced in biographies and religious texts, emphasizing his impact during his relatively short life. The number 63 is significant in Islamic history, marking the end of his prophetic mission and the beginning of the leadership of his companions.