1. Sound Intellect
2. Doing things for the sake of God
3. Sincerity, Honesty & Reliability
4. Good morals ethics & Companionship
5. Politeness and Good Manners
6. Love for Reformation & Reconciliation
7. Ordering the good and forbidding evil
8. His love of purification, Health and Hygiene
9. Safeguarding and Minding One's Language
10. Excelling in Acts of Worship
11. Forbearance
12. Good Appearance
13. Asceticism in wordily Affairs and contentment of the heart in plainness
14. Altruism (More regard and care of Others- Both Natural and Moral)
15. Strong Faith and Dependence of God
16. Kindness and Compassion
17. Simplification and Ease
18. Fearing God, Being mindful to not trespass his limits
19. Spending Generously
20. Cooperation
21. Truthfulness
22. Always seeking the moderate path
23. Pleasant facial expression
24. Bravery & Courage
25. Bashfulness and Modesty
26. Humbleness
27. Mercy and Compassion
28. Patience and Forbearance
29. Endurance
30. Justice and Fairness
31. Caring for All and visiting the sick
As i have stated previously in my other posts regarding manners in Islaam and etc. that it is really difficult to compile all the narrations which exhibit the brilliance and humbleness taught and reflected by Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), not because they aren't available but because they are vast in numbers [smile]
This is going to be a long document because it would be injustice to describe the manners and ethical behavior of the Prophet of Islam in a short or compact manner.
1. Sound Intellect
The Messenger (pbuh) had an excellent, complete and sound intellect. No man has ever had an intellect as complete and perfect as his. Qadhi Iyaadh, may God have mercy on him, said in Al-Shifa bita’reefi Hoquooqil-Mostafa’ (its a biography of the Messenger s.a.w) :
This becomes clear to an individual when the researcher reads the Prophet’s biography and understands his state of affairs, and his meaningful and inclusive utterances and traditions, his good manners, ethics and moral character, his knowledge of the Torah and Gospel and other Divine Scriptures, and his knowledge of statements of the wise, and knowledge of by-gone nations, and ability to strike examples and implement policies and correct emotional manners. He was an example and paradigm to which his people could relate to in all branches of knowledge; acts of worship, medicine, laws of inheritance, lineage, and other matters as well. He knew and learned all of this without reading or examining the Scriptures of those before us, nor did he sit with their scholars. The Prophet had no formal schooling, and was without knowledge of the above before being commissioned as a Prophet, nor could he read or write. The Prophet (pbuh) was wise to the fullest extent of his mental capacity. God, the Exalted, informed him of some of what had taken place (in the past) and of that which would take place in the future. This is a sign that the Dominion belongs to God, and that He is capable over all things.
The above acclaimed by Qaadhi Iyaad has been proven to be true via different sources since time immemorial. One such proof is the video below enlisting various top notch philosophers and historians from renowned world universities praising Muhammad after reading his biography and analyzing the proves meticulously :
Also see :
2. Doing Things for the Sake of God
The Prophet (pbuh) would always do deeds through which he would seek the pleasure of God. He was harmed and abused when he invited and called people to Islam; yet he was patient and endured all of this, and hoped for the reward of God. Abdullah b. Masood said:
"The Prophet (pbuh) resembled a prophet who was harmed by his people. He wiped the blood from his face and said: ‘O God! Forgive my people, for they know not!" (Bukhari #3290)
Jundub b. Sufyaan said that the Messenger’s finger bled during one of the battles, and he said:
"You are but a finger which has bled; which suffers in the path of God."(Bukhari #2648)
Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allaah be upon Him): "Have you ever faced any day more difficult than the day of Uhud?" He said: "I suffered at the hands of your people and the worst that I suffered was what I suffered at their hands on the day of ‘Aqabah. That was when I went to call Ibn ‘Abd Yaalayl ibn ‘Abd al-Kalaal to Islam, and he did not respond. I left, feeling depressed and hardly knowing where I was going. I did not recover until I found myself in Qarn al-Tha‘aalib. I raised my head and saw that I was being shaded by a cloud. I looked, and saw Jibreel in the cloud. He called me and said: ‘Allah has heard what your people said and how they responded to you (i.e by stoning you and etc). He has sent the Angel of the Mountains so that you can tell him to do to them whatever you want.’ The Angel of the Mountains called me and greeted me, then said: ‘O Muhammad, tell me what you want me to do. If you want, I can crush them between two mountains.’" The Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allaah be upon Him) said: "All I hope for is that Allah will bring forth from their loins people who will worship Allah alone and not associate any partner with Him." (Reported by al-Buhaari, Fath Al Bahri, no. 3231).
Sa’d (may Allaah be pleased with him) asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “O Messenger of Allaah, which of the people suffers the most distress?” He said: “The Prophets, then those who come after them (in terms of status), then those who come after them. A man will be tested according to the strength of his faith. If his faith is strong, then the distress with which he is tried will be greater; if his faith is weak, he will be tested in accordance with the level of his faith. Distress will keep on befalling the slave until he walks on the face of the earth free from sin.” [Al Bukhaari]
3. Sincerity, Honesty and Reliability
The Prophet (pbuh) was sincere and honest in all his matters, as God had ordered him. Allah, the Exalted, says:
"It was narrated from Anas that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no eemaan (faith) for the one who cannot be trusted and there is no religion for the one who does not keep his promise.” (Musnad al-Imaam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, no. 11935, and it was authenticated in Al-Albaani's Sahih Al-Jama'i, no. 7179).
There are numerous examples showing that the Prophet (s.a.w) was known to be trustworthy and sincere in his entire tribe and elsewhere. We have numerous historic events testifying this. Some of them are :
"… He [Heraclius] said (to Abu Sufyan who prior his acceptance to Islam was a staunch enemy of it), ‘Had you ever blamed him for telling lies before he claimed what he claimed?’ I replied, ‘No.’ … He said, ‘Does he break his promises?’ I replied, ‘No, but we are now at truce with him and we are afraid that he may betray us.’ … . ‘When I asked you whether he was ever blamed for telling lies, your reply was in the negative, so I took it for granted that a person who did not tell a lie about (others) the people could never tell a lie about Allah. I asked you whether he had ever broken his promise. You replied in the negative. And such are the apostles; they never break their promises…’" (Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 4, Book 52, Number 191)
It is reported on the authority of Ibn 'Abbas that when this verse was revealed: "And warn thy nearest kindred (and thy group of selected people among them)" the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) set off till he climbed Safa' and called loudly: Be on your guard! They said: Who is it calling aloud? They said: Muhammad. They gathered round him, and he said: O sons of so and so, O sons of so and so, O sons of 'Abd Manaf, O sons of 'Abd al-Muttalib, and they gathered around him. He (the Apostle) said: If I were to inform you that there were horsemen emerging out of the foot of this mountain, would you believe me? They said: We have not experienced any lie from you. He said: Well, I am a warner to you before a severe torment. He (the narrator) said that Abu Lahab then said: Destruction to you! Is it for this you have gathered us? He (the Holy Prophet) then stood up, and this verse was revealed: "Perish the hands of Abu Lahab, and he indeed perished" (cxi. 1). A'mash recited this to the end of the Sura. (Sahih Muslim, Book 001, Number 0406)
The Prophet said: 'Honesty leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man remains honest and concerned about honesty until he is recorded as an honest man with Allah. Lying leads to sinfulness and sinfulness leads to the Fire. A man keeps lying and remains partial to lies until he is recorded as a liar with Allah.' (Sahîh Bukharî, Sahîh Muslim)
The Prophet (pbuh) was well known for his honesty. The pagans of Makkah -who were openly hostile towards him- would leave their valuables with him. His honesty and reliability was tested when the pagans of Makkah abused him and tortured his companions and drove them out of their homes. He ordered his cousin, Ali b. Abi Talib to postpone his migration for three days to return to people their valuables
[Ibn Hisham’s Biography, Vol. 1, p.493 [Arabic Edition]
Another example of his honesty, trustworthiness and reliability is demonstrated in the Truce of Hudaibiyah, wherein he agreed to the article in the treaty which stated that any man who left the Prophet (pbuh) would not be returned to him, and any man who left Makkah would be returned to them. Before the treaty was concluded a man named Abu Jandal b. Amr had managed to escape from the pagans of Makkah and rushed to join Muhammad (pbuh). The pagans asked Muhammad to honor his pledge and return the escapee. The Messenger of God (pbuh) said:
"O Abu Jandal! Be patient and ask God to grant you patience. God will surely help you and those who are persecuted and make it easy for you. We have signed an agreement with them, and we certainly do not betray or act treacherously." (Sunan Al Bayhaqi #18611)
The special ingredient to eradicate corruption from the world : The Prophet forbidding cheating of any kind :
“They are those with whom you made a covenant, but they break their covenant every time and they do not fear Allaah”
[al-Anfaal 8:56]
And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Every betrayer will have a banner on the Day of Resurrection, by which he will be known.”
[Ref: Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6966; Muslim, 1736]
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever deceives us is not one of us.”
[Sahih Al Bukhaari ]
The people of Quraish called him as "trustworthy (Al Ameen)" and accepted his decisions during desputes, see : http://www.resulullah.org/en/reliable
How could he not be sincere and upright in his attitude and character when Allah himself said " Indeed in Muhammad you have a good example to follow [Qur'an : Al Ahzaab]"
Narrated Abdullah bin Amr: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم never used bad language neither a Fahish nor a Mutafahish. He صلى الله عليه وسلم used to say "The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character." [Bukhari & Muslim]
4. Good Morals, Ethics and Companionship
The Prophet (pbuh) was a living example for all humans to follow. His wife A’ishah was asked about his manners, and she said,
"His manners were the Qur’an."
In this statement, A’ishah meant that the Prophet (pbuh) abided by its laws and commands and abstained from its prohibitions, and observed the virtuous deeds mentioned in it. The Prophet (pbuh) said:
The Messenger of Allaah صلى الله عليه وسلم (himself) said, “Indeed, I have only been sent to complete the noblest of manners.” [Bukhari in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Ahmad, Al-Hakim]
Anas b. Malik served the Prophet (pbuh) for ten years; He was with him day in and day out, both when the Prophet (pbuh) traveled and when he was a resident in Madeenah. He was knowledgeable of the Prophet’s manners. He said:
"The Prophet (pbuh) did not swear at anyone, nor was he rude, nor did he curse anyone. If he desired to reprimand someone, he would say: ‘What is wrong with him, may dust be cast in his face!" (Bukhari #5684)
Again , when it comes to Manners of the Prophet (s.a.w), then the manners he displayed and taught both come into picture and they are vastly reported across varied books of hadeeth. Almost every other book has a detailed chapter enlisting the manners displayed and taught by the prophet (s.a.w). You may see some of them in the Links given above such as
Since Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) was An Arab, he ought to have the good manners Arabs were known for and you can see them here :
Also see :
(i) 66 Ahadeeth pertaining to manners, righteousness & keeping good relations
(ii) Adaab Al Mufrad - By Imaam Bukhaari
(iii) Precious ahadeeth on Manners and character in Islaam (iv) The Manners, Appearance and Behavior of the prophet in his everyday Life
(ii) Adaab Al Mufrad - By Imaam Bukhaari
(iii) Precious ahadeeth on Manners and character in Islaam (iv) The Manners, Appearance and Behavior of the prophet in his everyday Life
5. Politeness and Good Manners
The Prophet (pbuh) showed good manners and was courteous to all, even to children. Once when the Prophet was in a gathering, a drink was brought to the Prophet (pbuh) and he drank from it. On his right side there was a young boy and on his left side were elderly men. Feeling obliged by the respect of elders, and not wanting to hurt the feelings of the child, he asked the young boy:
"Do you mind if I give the drink to them?’ The young boy said: ‘O Prophet of God! By God! I would not prefer anyone to drink from the place you drank. This is my fair share.’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) handed the boy the drink." (Bukhari #2319)
6. Love for Reformation and Reconciliation
Whenever a situation occurred which called for reconciliation, the Prophet (pbuh) would hurry to resolve it. Once when he heard that the people of Qubaa’ disputed with each other about a matter wherein they threw stones at each other, the Prophet (pbuh) said:
"Let us go to resolve the situation and make peace between them."(Bukhari Vol. 3, Book 49, Hadith 858)
Allah says "And if two groups of Believers fall to fighting then, make peace between them." (49.9)
In yet another hadeeth it says :
Jabir ibn `Abd Allah al Ansari, narrated what happened at the watering place of al Muraysi which led to the Munafiqun stirring up the traces of `Asabiyyah and seeking to destroy the unity of the Muslims. He said: "We were on a raid when one of the Muhajirun kicked one of the Ansar. The Ansar said, `O Ansar! Help me! (calling his tribe) and the Muhajir said, `O Muhajirun! Help me! (calling his tribe). The Messenger of Allah (saaw) heard them and said,
"Why are you stirring up something which belongs to Jahilliyah (ignorance)?"
The Messenger of Allah (saw) did not deal with the situ! ation only by speaking to his men, but he walked with the men all that day until nightfall, and through the night until morning and during the following day until the sun distressed them. Then he halted them, and as soon as they touched the ground, they fell asleep. He did this to distract their minds from what had transpired.
[Also see : Sahih Bukhaari Volume 3, Book 49, Number 855]
Muhaddith who have collected ahadeeth have given chapter titles such as Imam Bukhaari giving the title " Peacemaking (book no. 53, Sahih Bukhaari) "
The Importance of Reconciling is reflected from the Below Ahadeeth :
Ibn Abbas reported: Concerning the verse, “Fear Allah and set things right between you,” (8:1) he said, “This is an injunction from Allah to the believers that they should fear Allah and reconcile between themselves.”
[Al-Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Number 392, Sahih]
One who lies to reconcile for good between people is not a Liar
Umm Kulthum reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, saying, “He is not a liar who reconciles people by saying something good or inventing something good.”
[Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book of Righteousness, Number 1938, Sahih, Also in Sahih Bukhaari Vol. 3, Book 49, Hadith 857]
Reconciling between people is better than charity
Yahya ibn Sa’id reported: I heard Sa’id ibn Al-Musayyib saying, “Shall I not inform you of what is better than much prayer and charity?” They said, “Of course!” He said, “Reconciliation between people; and beware of hatred, for verily, it is the razor.”
[Muwatta, Number 1676, Sahih]
One will not be forgiven until he reconciles
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “The gates of Paradise are opened on two days, Monday and Thursday. Allah forgives every servant who does not associate anything with him except the person in whose heart is rancor against his brother. It will be said: look to these until they reconcile, look to these until they reconcile, look to these until they reconcile.”
[Sahih Muslim, Book 32, Number 6222]
Reconcile between people even if they cut you off from them
Uqbah ibn Amir reported: I met the Messenger of Allah and I began speaking, taking his hand and saying, “O Messenger of Allah, tell me about virtuous deeds.” The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “O Uqbah, reconcile whoever cuts you off, give to whoever deprives you, and turn away from whoever wrongs you.”
[Musnad Ahmad, Number 16883, Sahih]
Reconcile even with your enemies (but not always)
Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said to his army, “Go forward in the name of Allah, with Allah and upon the religion of the Messenger of Allah; do not kill an old person, do not kill a child or young person, and do not kill women; do not transgress the limits or steal; and reconcile and behave well, for indeed, Allah loves those who do good.”
[Sunan Abu Dawud, Book of Jihad, Number 2608, Hasan]
7. Ordering the good and forbidding evil
The prophet (s.a.w) was sent with a mission to enjoin good and forbid evil so his entire life is an example of this. He was sent as a teacher and thus whenever he saw something wrong he instantly changed it.
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever among you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand [by taking action]; if he cannot, then with his tongue [by speaking out]; if he cannot then with his heart [by hating it and feeling that it is wrong], and that is the weakest of faith.”
[Ref: Narrated by Muslim, 49 , Sunan Al Nasaee Vol. 6, Book 1, Hadith 5011]
Abu Sa'eed al-Khudri said: "The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'Allaah will ask His slave on the Day of Resurrection until He says: What prevented you, when you saw something evil, from denouncing it?'" According to another report: "One of you will be asked on the Day of Resurrection until he is asked: What prevented you from denouncing evil when you saw it?"
[Ref: Reported by Imaam Ahmad and Ibn Maajah, 4017; see also Saheeh al-Jaami', 1818).
'Aisha (r.a) related that " ….. (cont.)...The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, did not take revenge for himself unless the limits of Allah were violated. Then he took revenge for it for Allah
[Ref: Muwatta Book 47, Number 47.1.2: and elsewhere. Also see similar examples at Musnad Ahmad, Number 14736, Sahih and Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Number 131 and Sahih Muslim #2090]
Even when someone made a mistake or erred or committed a sin on purpose or etc, there was a beautiful etiquette observed by the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w) in correcting such mistakes and you can read about it from here : http://islamqa.info/en/ref/books/15
8. His Love of Purification, Health and Hygiene
The importance of hygiene and purification is emphasized greatly in Islaam, so much so that a person has to wash some of his body parts 5 times a day while he performs 5 prayers. From cutting of nails to bathroom etiquette Islaam has taught the manners for All.
Allah says “Truly, God loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and loves those who purify themselves.” (Quran 2:222)
Prophet (s.a.w) said "cleanliness is half of faith...(cont..) "
[Ref: Sahih Muslim Book 2, Hadith 432]
Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu anhu) says:
"Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) was so clean, clear, beautiful and handsome, as though his body was covered and molded in silver. His hair was slightly curled.
[Shama'il Muhammadiya, Book 1, Hadith 12]
“O you who believe! When you intend to offer the prayer, wash your faces and your hands (forearms) up to the elbows, wipe your heads, and (wash) your feet up to the ankles. If you are in a state of Janaba (i.e. had a sexual discharge) purify yourself.” (Quran 5:6)
the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The fitrah (something that is said to be a sign of a human i.e humans wear clothes unlike animals and etc) is five things: circumcision, removing the pubic hair, trimming the moustache, cutting the nails, and plucking the armpit hairs.”
(Reported by al-Bukhaari and Muslim).
it was narrated from al-Muhaajir ibn Qunfudh that he came to the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allaah be upon him) when he was urinating and he greeted him with salaam, but the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allaah be upon him) did not return the greeting until he had done wudoo’, then he apologised to him and said: “I do not like to mention Allaah, may He be glorified and exalted, except in a state of purity.”
[Narrated by Abu Dawood (17); classed as saheeh by Ibn Hajar in Nataa’ij al-Afkaar, 1/205; and by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood]
Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) set a time limit for us to cut our moustaches, cut our nails, pluck our armpit hairs and shave our pubic hairs: we were not to leave it any longer than forty days.”
(Reported by Ahmad, Muslim and al-Nisaa’i; this version narrated by Ahmad).
It is related from 'Ata ibn Yaasir (r.a) that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was in the mosque when a man came in with dishevelled hair and beard. The Messenger of Allah. may Allah bless him and grant him peace, motioned with his hand that he should be sent out to groom his hair and beard. The man did so and then returned. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Isn't this better than that one of you should come with his head dishevelled, as if he were a shaytan?"
[Muwatta Maalik, Book 51, Hadith 7]
Abu Qatada al-Ansari said to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, "I have a lot of hair which comes down to my shoulders, shall I comb it?'' The Messenger of Allah. may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Yes, and honour it." Sometimes Abu Qatada oiled it twice in one day because the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said to him. "Honour it."
[Muwatta Maalik, Book 51, Hadith 6, Also see similar reports in Shama'il Muhammadiya by At-Tirmidhi Book 4, Hadith 32 and Sahih Bukhaari Vol. 3, Book 33, Hadith 246]
Anas (r.a) said : "The hand of the Messenger of God (pbuh) was softer than any silk that I had ever touched, and his scent was sweeter than any perfume that I had ever smelt."
[Bukhari #3368]
To see etiquette of toothbrush mentioned in Islaam see : http://islaahh.wordpress.com/2012/10/08/miswaak-toothstick/
To see etiquette of Bathroom visit : http://islaahh.wordpress.com/2012/07/29/muslim-bathroom-etiquette/
To see eating etiquette in Islaam visit: http://the-finalrevelation.blogspot.com/2012/09/manners-of-eating-food.html
9. Safeguarding and Minding One’s Language
The Messenger of God (pbuh) would busy himself with the remembrance of God; he would not talk in vain. He would lengthen his prayers and shorten the speech, and he would not hesitate to help and take care of the needs of a needy, poor or widow. (Ibn Hib’ban #6423)
Sahl ibn Sa’d reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “He who can guarantee for me what is between his jaws and what is between his legs, then I can guarantee for him Paradise.”
[Sahih Bukhari, Book 76, Number 481, Also see Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book of Asceticism, Number 2409, Hasan]
Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “There are four qualities which, if they are found in you, then nothing will harm you in the world: fulfilling the trust, truthful speech, good character, and restraint with food.”
[Musnad Ahmad, Number 6614, Sahih]
Sufyan ibn Abdullah reported: I said, “O Messenger of Allah, tell me about a matter I can hold fast to.” The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Say: My Lord is Allah, and remain steadfast.” I said, “O Messenger of Allah, what do you fear most for me?” He took hold of his tongue and he said, “This.”
[Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book of Asceticism, Number 2410, Sahih]
The importance of good speech , avoiding foul language is emphasized greatly in Islaam. Please see the below two links to read different ahadeeth and rulings in Islam on this topic
10. Excelling in Acts of Worship
A’ishah said that the Prophet of God (pbuh) used to pray during the night until his feet would swell. She said, ‘Why do you do this, O Messenger of God, while God has forgiven your past and future sins?’ The Prophet (pbuh) replied:
"Shall I not be a grateful slave (of God)?" (Bukhari #4557)
11. Forbearance
Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allaah be upon Him): "Have you ever faced any day more difficult than the day of Uhud?" He said: "I suffered at the hands of your people and the worst that I suffered was what I suffered at their hands on the day of ‘Aqabah. That was when I went to call Ibn ‘Abd Yaalayl ibn ‘Abd al-Kalaal to Islam, and he did not respond. I left, feeling depressed and hardly knowing where I was going. I did not recover until I found myself in Qarn al-Tha‘aalib. I raised my head and saw that I was being shaded by a cloud. I looked, and saw Jibreel in the cloud. He called me and said: ‘Allah has heard what your people said and how they responded to you. He has sent the Angel of the Mountains so that you can tell him to do to them whatever you want.’ The Angel of the Mountains called me and greeted me, then said: ‘O Muhammad, tell me what you want me to do. If you want, I can crush them between two mountains.’" The Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allaah be upon Him) said: "All I hope for is that Allah will bring forth from their loins people who will worship Allah alone and not associate any partner with Him."
(Reported by al-Buhaari, Fath Al Bahri, no. 3231).
12. Good Appearance
Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu anhu) says:
"Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) was so clean, clear, beautiful and handsome, as though his body was covered and molded in silver. His hair was slightly curled.
[Shama'il Muhammadiya, Book 1, Hadith 12, English Version Book 1, Hadith 11]
It was narrated that Al-Bara' said: "I have never seen anyone who looked more handsome in a red Hullah than the Messenger of Allah [SAW], with his long hair that came down to his shoulders."
[Sunan Al Nasa'ee , Eng: Vol. 6, Book 48, Hadith 5063, Sahih]
Al-Bara' reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) had the most handsome face amongst men and he had the best disposition and he was neither very tall nor short-statured.
[Sahih Muslim Book 30, Hadith 5772, Also see Bukhaari 2358]
It is related from Jaabir (Radiallahu anhu) that he said: "I once saw Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) on the night of a full moon. On that night he wore red clothing. At times I looked at the full moon and at times at Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam). Ultimately I came to the conclusion that Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) was more handsome, beautiful and more radiant than the full moon."
[ Shama'il Muhammadiyah > The Noble Features Of Rasoolullah > English Version: Book 1, Hadith 9]
13. Asceticism in Worldly Affairs and contentment of the heart in plainness
There are many examples in the Prophet’s life which prove that he had no concern for the pleasures of this life. Abdullah b. Masood said:
"The Messenger of God (pbuh) went to sleep on a mat. He stood up and he had marks on his side due to the mat that he had slept on. We said: ‘O Messenger of God, shall we not make [a proper] bedding for you?’ He said: ‘What do I have to do with this world? I am only like a wayfarer upon a mount that stopped to take shade and rest under a tree, and then leaves it behind and continues on the journey." (Tirmidthi #2377)
'Umar Ibn Khattab (r.a) said :
‘I entered the Messenger’s house and I found him sitting on a mat. He had a leather pillow stuffed with fibers. He had a pot of water by his feet, and there was some clothes hung on the wall. His side had marks due to the mat that he lay on. Umar wept when he saw this, and the Messenger (pbuh) asked him: ‘Why do you weep?’ Umar said: ‘O Prophet of God! Khosrau and Caesar enjoy the best of this world, and you are suffering in poverty?!’ He said: ‘Aren’t you pleased that they enjoy this world, and we will enjoy the Hereafter?’ (Bukhari #4629)
Amr’ b. al-Haarith said:
"The Messenger of God (pbuh) did not leave any gold or silver currency, or a slave, male or female, after his death. He only left behind his white mule, his weapons and a piece of land which he declared as Charity."(Bukhari #2588)
14. Altruism (More Regard and care of Others - Both Natural and Moral)
Sahl b. Sa’d said: The Prophet (pbuh) had more care for those around him than for his own self.
"A woman gave the Messenger of God (pbuh) a Burdah (gown). The Prophet (pbuh) asked his Companions: ‘Do you know what a Burdah is?’ They replied, ‘Yes, O Prophet of God! It is a piece of woven cloth [similar to a shawl]. The woman said: ‘O Prophet of God! I have woven this shawl with my own hands, for you to wear.’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) took it while he direly needed it. After a while, the Messenger of God (pbuh) came out of his home wearing it, and a Companion said to the Messenger of God (pbuh): ‘O Prophet of God! Grant me this shawl to wear!’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) said: ‘Yes.’ He then sat for awhile, and headed back home, folded it and gave it to the person who asked for it. The Companions scolded him saying: ‘It was not appropriate for you to ask for his shawl; especially since you know he does not turn anyone down or send them away empty-handed! The man said: ‘By God! I only asked him to give it to me because I want to be shrouded in this shawl when I die.’ Sahl, the narrator of the Hadeeth said: ‘The shawl was used as a shroud for that man when he died." (Bukhari #1987)
The Messenger of God (pbuh) loved to help others by interceding on their behalf :
Abdullah Ibn Abbas (r.a) said :
"The husband of Bareerah was a slave whose name was Mugheeth - I saw him walking behind her in the streets of Madeenah crying, and his tears were falling off his beard. The Messenger of God (pbuh) said to Al-Abbas: ‘Doesn’t it amaze you, how much Mugheeth loves Bareerah, and how much she dislikes Mugheeth!’ The Prophet (pbuh) said to Bareerah: ‘Why don’t you go back to him?’ She said to him: ‘Are you commanding me to do so?’ He said: ‘No, but I am interceding on his behalf.’ She said: ‘I have no need for him."(Bukhari # 4875)
15. Strong Faith and Dependence on God
Although the Prophet (pbuh) and his companions faced severe trials from the disbelievers, he always reminded them that the end was for the believers, and that the Will of God will come to pass. When Abu Bakr and the Prophet hid in a cave after they had left their homes in order to migrate to Madeenah, the disbelievers of Makkah had sent scouts in search of them. They came so close to the cave that Abu Bakr could see their feet. Abu Bakr said:
"I looked at the feet of the pagans while we were in the cave [of Thawr]. I said, ‘O Prophet of God! If anyone of them looks down at his feet he would see us!’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) said: ‘O Abu Bakr! What do you think of two with whom God, the Exalted, is their Third?" (Muslim #1854)
On the authority of Ibn Abbas, who said, "One day I was behind the Prophet and he said to me: 'Young man, I shall teach you some words (of advice). Be mindful of ALLAH, and ALLAH will protect you. Be mindful of ALLAH, and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask of ALLAH; if you seek help, seek help of ALLAH. Know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with anything, it would benefit you only with something that ALLAH had already prescribed for you, and if they gather together to harm you with anything, they would harm you only with something ALLAH had already prescribed for you. Then pens have been lifted and the pages have dried.
(Sahih from Al Tirmidhi and hadis qudsi no.19)
16. Kindness and Compassion
The Prophet was the kindest of people, and this was also apparent in his treatment of infants.
"The Messenger of God (pbuh) performed Salah (prayer) while he was carrying an infant girl named Umaamah, daughter of Abul-Aas. When he bowed, he put her on the ground, and when he stood up, he would carry her again." (Bukhari #5650)
Nu’man ibn Bashir reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “The parable of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body; when any limb of it aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.”
[Sahih Muslim, Book 32, Number 6258]
Abu Abdullah Al-Khadali reported: I asked Aisha about the character of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him. She said, “He was not indecent, he was not obscene, he would not shout in the markets, and he would not respond to an evil deed with an evil deed, but rather he would pardon and overlook.”
[Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book of Righteousness, Number 2016, Sahih]
Anas ibn Malik reported: The Prophet, peace be upon him, was merciful; and no one would come to him in need except that he would promise to help him and he would give him something if he had it. On one occasion the call to prayer had been given when a desert Arab came and he took hold of his shirt and he said, “I am still not satisfied!” The Arab had alarmed the Prophet’s wives but the Prophet went with him until the man received what he wanted; then he returned and prayed.
[Al-Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Number 278, Hasan]
Anas ibn Malik reported: A Jewish woman came to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, with a poisoned sheep and he ate from it. She was brought to him and it was said, “Should we kill her?” He said, “No.” I continued to see the effects of the poison upon the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him.
[Sahih Bukhari, Book 47, Number 786]
Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Prophet, peace be upon him, said, “He who does not show mercy to our little ones or recognize the rights of our elders is not one of us.”
[Musnad Ahmad, Number 7033, Sahih]
Jabir ibn Abdullah reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “Whoever has three daughters and he cares for them, he is merciful to them, and he clothes them; then he will enter Paradise.” It was said, “O Messenger of Allah, what if he has only two?” He said, “Even two.” It was said, “What if he has only one?” He said, “Even one.”
[Musnad Ahmad, Number 13835, Hasan]
Anas ibn Malik reported: When the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, entered Medina he did not have any servants, so Abu Talha took my hand and led me to the Prophet and he said, “O Prophet of Allah, indeed, this is Anas, a clever and intelligent young boy, so let him serve you.” Anas said, “I served him while at home and during travel from the time he came to Medina until he passed away. He never said to me because of something I had done: why did you do that? And he never said to me because of something I had not done: why did you not do that?”
[Al-Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Number 164, Sahih]
Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Those who are merciful will be granted mercy from the Most Merciful; be merciful to those on the earth and those in the heavens will have mercy on you. The womb is derived from the Most Merciful, so whoever establishes its relations will maintain relations with Allah, and whoever cuts off its relations will be cut off from Allah.”
[Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book of Righteousness, Number 1924, Sahih]
Contrary to the Western culture, Islaam teaches and exhorts immensely for one to maintain family ties irrespective of how worse the situation may get. You may see it here : http://the-finalrevelation.blogspot.com/2012/10/obligation-of-upholding-ties-of-family.html
The importance of compassion, mercy and kindness is too broad and vast in Islaam for me to jot down all the ahadeet here. This side of Islam can also be seen from the details prophet (s.a.w) taught and asked us to follow regarding the rights of Animals which can be seen here : http://the-finalrevelation.blogspot.com/2012/09/animal-rights-in-islam.html
17. Simplification and Ease
The Prophet (pbuh) always sought to make things easy for people. The Messenger of God (pbuh) said:
"I start the prayer with the intention of lengthening it, but when I hear a child crying, I shorten the prayer, as I know its mother would suffer from his screams!" (Bukhari #677)
18. Fearing God, being Mindful to not trespass His Limits
The Messenger of God (pbuh) said:
Sometimes, when I return to my family, I would find a datefruit on the bed. I would pick it up to eat it; but I would fear that it was from the charity, and thus, throw it back [on the ground]." (Bukhari #2300)
The Messenger of God (pbuh) was the most mindful person of God. Abdullah bin Masoud said:
"[Once] the Messenger of God (pbuh) said to me: ‘Recite to me from the Qur’an!’ Abdullah b. Masood said: ‘Shall I recite it to you, while it was you to whom it was revealed?!’ The Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘Yes.’ He said: ‘I started to recite Surat an-Nisaa, until I reached the verse:
"How then if We brought from each nation a witness, and We brought you as a witness against these people!" (4:41)
Upon hearing this verse, the Messenger of God (pbuh) said: ‘That is enough!’ Abdullah b. Masood said, ‘I turned around and saw the Messenger of God (pbuh) crying.’ " (Bukhari #4763)A’ishah said:
‘If the Messenger of God (pbuh) saw dark clouds in the sky; he would pace forwards and backwards and would exit and enter his house. As soon as it rained, the Prophet (pbuh) would relax. A’ishah asked him about it, and he said: ‘I do not know, it may be as some people said:
Then, when they saw the (penalty in the shape of) a cloud traversing the sky, coming to meet their valleys, they said: ‘This cloud will give us rain! Nay, it is the (calamity) you were asking to be hastened! A wind wherein is a Grievous Penalty!" (46:24) [Bukhari #3034]
19. Spending Generously
Anas bin Maalik (r.a) said :
‘The Messenger of God (pbuh) was never asked for something when a person accepted Islam, except that he granted that person what he asked. A man came to the Prophet (pbuh) and he gave him a herd of sheep that was grazing between two mountains. The man returned to his people and said: ‘O my people accept Islam! Muhammad (pbuh) gives out generously like one who does not fear poverty.’ (Muslim #2312)
Abu Dhar (r.a) said :
‘I was walking with the Prophet (pbuh) in the Har’rah (volcanic region) of Madeenah and we faced the mount of Uhud; the Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘O Abu Dharr!’ I said: ‘Here I am O Messenger of God!’ He said: ‘It would not please me to have an amount of gold equal to the weight of Mount Uhud, until I spend and give it out (in the sake of God) within a night or within three nights. I would keep a single silver piece of it to help those who are in debt. (Bukhari #2312)
Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, "I am more closer to the believers than their own selves, so whoever (of them) dies while being in debt and leaves nothing for its repayment, then we are to pay his debts on his behalf and whoever (among the believers) dies leaving some property, then that property is for his heirs."
[Sahih Bukhaari, Volume 8, Book 80, Number 723]
Abdullah b. Umar said that the Messenger of God (pbuh) said:
"Whoever seeks refuge with God against your evil, then do not harm him. Whoever asks you by God, then give him. Whoever invites you, then accept his invitation. Whoever does a favor for you or an act of kindness, then repay him in a similar manner; but if you do not find that which you can reward him with, then supplicate God for him continuously, until you think you have repaid him." (Ahmed #6106)
'Aisha (r.a) said :
"The Messenger of God (pbuh) would accept gifts, and reward generously on account of that." (Bukhari #2445)
Jabir b. Abdullah said:
‘The Prophet pbuh did not refuse to give anything which he had to someone if he asked for it.’ (Bukhari #5687)
20. Cooperation
The Prophet (pbuh) was not a king who commanded his followers to carry out his orders. Rather he always carried out his own affairs and helped others in collective duties. A’ishah was once asked about how the Prophet (pbuh) behaved with his family. She said:
"He helped and assisted his family members with their chores; but when the call to prayer was heard, he would [stop everything and] leave to attend the prayers." [Bukhaari 5048]
"I (Aisha) was asked how the Messenger of God (pbuh) behaved in his house. She said: ‘He was like any man; he washed his clothes, milked his sheep, and served himself." (Ahmed 24998)
Al-Baraa bin ‘Azib said:
"I saw the Messenger of God (pbuh) on the Day of the Trench carrying dirt [that was dug from the trench] until his chest was covered with dirt."(Bukhari #2780)
The Prophet (pbuh) would consult his Companions, and take their opinions and points of view into consideration in issues and matters for which no textual proofs were revealed. Abu Hurairah said:
"I have not seen a person more keen for the sincere advice of his companions than the Messenger of God (pbuh)." (Tirmidthi #1714)
Ibn Mas’ud reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, would take care of us in preaching by selecting a suitable time, so that we might not get bored.
[Sahih Bukhari, Book 3, Number 68]
21. Truthfulness
A’ishah said:
"The trait and characteristic which the Prophet (pbuh) hated most was lying. A man would tell a lie in the presence of the Prophet (pbuh) and he would hold it against him, until he knew that he repented." (Tirmidthi #1973)
Even his enemies attested to his truthfulness. Abu Jahl, who was one of the harshest enemies of Islam, said: ‘O Muhammad! I do not say that you are a liar! I only deny what you brought and what you call people to.’ God, the Exalted, says:
"We know indeed that what they say certainly grieves you, but surely they do not call you a liar; but the unjust deny the verses of God." [6:33]
Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said, “There are four signs which make someone a pure hypocrite, and whoever has them has the characteristic of hypocrisy until he abandons it: when he speaks he lies, when he makes a covenant he proves treacherous, when he makes a promise he breaks it, and when he argues he proves wicked.”
[Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Number 111]
22. Always Seeking the Moderate Path
A’ishah said:
"The Prophet (pbuh) was not given a choice between two matters, except that he chose the easier of the two, as long as it was not a sinful act. If that act was a sinful act, he would be the farthest from it. By God! He never avenged himself. He only became angry when people transgressed the limits and boundaries of God; in that case he avenged [for the sake of God]." (Bukhari #6404)
Ibn Abbas (r.a) said :
The prophet (s.a.w) said : " ...... O people, beware of exaggeration in religion for those who came before you were only destroyed because of exaggeration in religion.”
[Sunan ibn Majah, Book of Rites, Number 3029, Sahih]
23. Pleasant Facial Expression
Abdullah bin al-Harith said:
"I have never seen a man who smiled as much as the Messenger of God (pbuh)." (Tirmidthi #2641)
24. Bravery and courage
Ali said:
"You should have seen him on the Day of Badr! We sought refuge with the Messenger of God (pbuh). He was the closest among us to the enemy. On that Day, the Messenger of God (pbuh) was the strongest one among us." (Ahmed #654)
As for his courage and bravery under normal circumstances - Anas b. Malik said:
"The Messenger of God (pbuh) was the best of people and the most courageous. One night, the people of Madeenah were frightened and headed towards the sounds they heard during the night. The Messenger of God (pbuh) met them while coming back from the place of the sound, after he made sure that there was no trouble. He was riding a horse that belonged to Abu Talhah without any saddle, and he had his sword with him. He was assuring the people, saying: ‘Do not be frightened! Do not be frightened!" (Bukhari #2751)
He met up with people riding a horse with no saddle, and he carried his sword, for there might be a reason or need to use it. He did not wait for others to investigate the source of trouble as is usually done in these situations.
It is also reported that during the Battle of Hunayn when the opposition army was fierce and had an upper hand as they attacked surprisingly, the people began to flee, during which the prophet (s.a.w) shouted and kept proclaiming :
“I am the Messenger of Allah; there is no lie in this. I am the son of Abdulmuttalib (who never escaped from the enemy); there is no lie in this.”
[Imam Tirmidhi, Shamail Al Tirmidhi p:265; M.Yusuf Kandahlawi, ibid (III) 228]
'Ali (r.a) said :
“When a war got hot, and the eyes were red of anger, we used to shelter behind Him (s.a.w).”
[Musnad, 1:86; Mustadrak, 2:143; Kanzu’l-Ummal, 12:347, 419]
25. Bashfulness and Modesty
Abu Ayoub al-Ansari said that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said:
"Four (traits) are from the practice of the Messengers; modesty, using perfume and siwak (tooth stick) and marriage." (Tirmidhi)
A’ishah said:
"A woman asked the Prophet (pbuh) about the bath which is taken at the end of the menstrual period. The Prophet (pbuh) said: 'Purify yourself with a piece of cloth scented with musk.' The Prophet (pbuh) felt shy and turned his face. A’ishah said: 'I pulled her to myself and told her what the Prophet (pbuh) meant.' " (Bukhari #313)
26. Humbleness
The Messenger of God (pbuh) was the most humble person. He was so humble that if a stranger were to enter the mosque and approach the Prophet’s sitting place while he was sitting with his Companions, one would not be able to distinguish him from his Companions. Anas bin Malik said:
"Once, while we were sitting with the Messenger of God (pbuh) in the Masjid, a man on his camel approached. After he tied it with a rope, he asked: ‘Who amongst you is Muhammad?’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) was sitting on the ground while he was leaning, with his Companions. We directed the Bedouin, saying: ‘This white man leaning on the ground.’ The Prophet (pbuh) did not differ nor distinguish himself from his Companions."
The Prophet (pbuh) would not hesitate to help the poor, needy and widows in their needs. Anas b. Malik said:
"A woman from the people of Madeenah who was partially insane said to the Prophet (pbuh): ‘I have to ask you [your help] about something.’ He helped her and took care of her needs." (Bukhari #670)
A narration related by Abû Ma’dhr from al-Maqburî from ’Âishah - radiallâhu ’anhâ - that the Prophet sallallâhu ’alayhi wa sallam said: “An angel came to me and said: Allâh sends blessings upon you and says: If you wish you may be a Prophet-Kin or a Slave-Messenger. So Jibrîl - ’alayhis-salâm - indicated to me that I should humble myself: So I said: A Prophet-Slave.” So ’Âishah said: So after that day, the Prophet sallallâhu ’alayhi wa sallam never ate whilst reclining, saying: “I eat like a slave eats and I sit like a slave sits.”
[Ref: Taken from the Book Al-Hâfidh Ibn Rajab al-Hanbalî (d.795H) titled 'Prophet - King or Slave Messenger who said about this hadeeth to be Hasan and Related by al-Baghawî in Sharhus-Sunnah (no.4683) and Abush-Shaykh in Akhlâqun-Nabî (no.213), and al-Haythamî authenticated it in al-Majma’ (9/19).]
27. Mercy and Compassion
Abu Masood al-Ansari said:
"A man came to the Prophet (pbuh) and said: 'O Messenger of God! By God! I do not pray Fajr prayer because so and so lengthens the prayer.' He said: 'I have never seen the Messenger of God (pbuh) deliver a speech in such an angry state.' He said: 'O People! Verily there are among you those who chase people away! If you lead people in prayer, shorten the prayer. There are old and weak people and those with special needs behind you in prayer.' " (Bukhari #670)
Aisha reported: A desert Arab came to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and he said, “You kiss the children? We do not kiss them.” The Prophet said, “I cannot put mercy into your heart if Allah has removed it from you.”
[Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Number 27]
Abu Qatadah reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, entered upon his with Umamah the daughter of Abu Al-‘As on his shoulder. He prayed and when he bowed, he would put her down; when he arose, he would lift her up.
[Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Number 25]
28. Patience and Forbearance
Anas Ibn Maalik (r.a) said :
"Once, I was walking with the Messenger of God (pbuh) while he was wearing a Yemeni cloak with a collar with rough edges. A Bedouin grabbed him strongly. I looked at the side of his neck and saw that the edge of the cloak left a mark on his neck. The Bedouin said, ‘O Muhammad! Give me [some] of the wealth of God that you have.’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) turned to the Bedouin, laughed and ordered that he be given [some money]." (Bukhari #2980)
Another example of his patience is the story of the Jewish Rabbi, Zaid bin Sa’nah. Zaid had given something as a loan to the Messenger of God (pbuh). He himself said,
Two or three days prior to the return of the debt, the Messenger of God (pbuh) was attending the funeral of a man from the Ansar. Abu Bakr and Umar, Uthman and some other Companions were with the Prophet (pbuh). After he prayed the funeral prayer he sat down close to a wall, and I came towards him, grabbed him by the edges of his cloak, and looked at him in a harsh way, and said: 'O Muhammad! Will you not pay me back my loan? I have not known the family of Abdul-Mutalib to delay in repaying debts!' I looked at Umar b. al-Khat’taab - his eyes were swollen with anger! He looked at me and said: ‘O Enemy of God, do you talk to the Messenger of God and behave towards him in this manner?! By the One who sent him with the truth, had it not been for the fear of not entering the Heavenly Gardens, I would have beheaded you with my sword! The Prophet (pbuh) was looking at Umar in a calm and peaceful manner, and he said: ‘O Umar, you should have given us sincere counseling, rather than to do what you did! O Umar, go and repay him his loan, and give him twenty Sa’a (measurement of weight) extra because you scared him!’ Zaid said: ‘Umar went with me, and repaid me the debt, and gave me over it twenty Sa’a of dates. I asked him: ‘What is this?’ He said: ‘The Messenger of God (pbuh) ordered me to give it, because I frightened you.’ Zaid then asked Umar: ‘O Umar, do you know who I am?’ Umar said: ‘No, I don’t - who are you?’ Zaid said: ‘I am Zaid b. Sa’nah.’ Umar inquired: ‘The Rabbi?’ Zaid answered: ‘Yes, the Rabbi.’ Umar then asked him: ‘What made you say what you said to the Prophet (pbuh) and do what you did to him?’ Zaid answered: ‘O Umar, I have seen all the signs of prophethood in the face of the Messenger of God (pbuh) except two – (the first) his patience and perseverance precede his anger and the second, the more harsher you are towards him, the kinder and more patient he becomes, and I am now satisfied. O Umar, I hold you as a witness that I testify and am satisfied that there is no true god worthy of being worshipped except God alone, and my religion is Islam and Muhammad (pbuh) is my Prophet. I also hold you as a witness that half of my wealth - and I am among the wealthiest people in Madeenah - I give for the sake of God to the Muslims.’ Umar said: ‘you will not be able to distribute your wealth to all the Muslims, so say, ‘I will distribute it to some of the followers of Muhammad (pbuh).’ Zaid said: ‘I said, then I will distribute (the apportioned) wealth to some of the Muslims.’ Both Zaid and Umar returned to the Messenger of God (pbuh). Zaid said to him: ‘I bear witness that there is no true god worthy of being worshipped except God alone, and that Muhammad (pbuh) is the slave of God and His Messenger.’ He believed in him, and witnessed many battles and then died in the Battle of Tabook while he was encountering the enemy - may God have mercy on Zaid.’ " (Ibn Hibban #288)
A great example of his forgiveness and perseverance is apparent when he pardoned the people of Makkah after its conquest. When the Messenger of God (pbuh) gathered the people; who had abused, harmed and tortured him and his companions, and had driven them out of the city of Makkah, he said:
"What do you think I will do to you?’ They answered: ‘You will only do something favorable; you are a kind and generous brother, and a kind and generous nephew!’ The Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘Go - you are free to do as you wish." (Sunan Al Baihaqi #18055)
29. Endurance
The Messenger of God (pbuh) was the epitome of patience. He was patient with his people before calling them to Islam; for they would worship idols and do sinful acts. He was patient and tolerant with the abuse and harm the pagans of Makkah inflicted on him and his Companions and sought the reward of God. He was also patient and tolerant with the abuse of the hypocrites in Madeenah.
His patience was severely tested when he lost his loved ones. His wife, Khadeejah, died during his lifetime, as did all his children, save his daughter, Fatimah. His uncle Hamzah and Abu Talib passed away as well. The Prophet (pbuh) was patient and sought the reward of God. Anas b. Malik said:
"We entered the house of Abu Saif - the blacksmith - with the Prophet (pbuh). Abu Saif’s wife was the wetnurse of his son, Ibraheem. The Messenger of God (pbuh) lifted his son Ibraheem, and smelled and kissed him. After a while he went and saw his son again - he was dying. The Prophet (pbuh) started to cry. Abdurrahmaan b. Auf said: ‘O Prophet of God, you too cry!’ The Messenger (pbuh) said: ‘O Ibn Auf, this is a mercy’ - the Prophet (pbuh) shed more tears and said: ‘The eyes shed tears, the heart is saddened, and we only say what pleases our Lord, and we are saddened by your death, O Ibraheem!" (Bukhari #1241)
30. Justice and Fairness
The Messenger of God (pbuh) was just and fair in every aspect of his life and in the application of the religion. A’ishah said:
‘The people of Quraish were extremely concerned about a Makhzoomi woman (i.e. the woman from the tribe of Makhzoom) who committed a theft. They conversed among themselves and said, ‘Who can intercede on her behalf with the Messenger of God (pbuh)?’ They finally said: ‘Who dares to speak to the Messenger of God (pbuh) in this matter except Usamah b. Zaid, the most beloved young man to the Messenger of God (pbuh).’ So Usamah spoke to the Messenger of God (pbuh) regarding the woman. The Messenger of God (pbuh) said:
‘O Usamah! Do you intercede (on their behalf to disregard) one of God’s castigations and punishments!’
The Messenger of God (pbuh) got up and delivered a speech, saying:‘People before you were destroyed because when the noble among them stole, they would let him go; and if the poor and weak stole they would punish him. By God! If Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad stole, I would cut her hand off.’ (Bukhari #3288)
The Messenger of God (pbuh) was just and fair and allowed others to avenge themselves if he harmed them. Usaid b. Hudhair said:
‘A man from the Ansar, was cracking jokes with people and making them laugh, and the Prophet (pbuh) passed by him and poked his side lightly with a branch of a tree that he was carrying. The man exclaimed: ‘O Prophet of God! Allow me to avenge myself!’ The Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘Go Ahead!’ The man said: ‘O Messenger of God, you are wearing a garment, and I was not when you poked me [i.e. you jabbed my exposed skin, so it is only fair I do the same to you]!’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) raised his upper garment [to expose his side], and the Ansari [merely] kissed it, saying: ‘I only meant to do this, O Messenger of God!’ (Abu Dawood #5224)
An Amazing and brilliant set of examples showing his equality and justice can be seen here : http://the-finalrevelation.blogspot.com/2012/12/no-racism-in-islam.html
31. Caring for All and Visiting the sick, whether he was Muslim or non-Muslim
" ‘A Jewish boy would serve the Prophet (pbuh) and he fell sick, so the Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘Let us go and visit him.’ They went to visit him, and found his father sitting by his head, and the Messenger of God (pbuh) said: ‘proclaim that there is no true god worthy of being worshipped except Allah alone’ and I will intercede on your behalf on account of it on the Day of Resurrection.’ The boy looked at his father, and the father said: ‘Obey Abul-Qasim!25’ so the boy uttered: ‘There is no true god worthy of being worshipped except Allah alone and Muhammad (pbuh) is the last Messenger.’ The Messenger of God (pbuh) said: ‘All praise is due to God, Who saved him from the Fire of Hell.’ " (Ibn Hibban #2960)
It is narrated by 'Abdullah bin'Amr bin Al-As that the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Salam slaughtered a ewe and had it cooked. He asked (his household), "Did you give part of it as a present to our Jewish neighbor?" He repeated this question three times. Then Abdullah added, "I heard the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Salam saying Jibril continued to admonish me to treat the neighbors kingly and politely and to extend that I thought he would order me to make them my heirs." (Abu Dawood in Kitab Al-Adab)
Also see : PROPHET MUHAMMAD (S.A.W)'s MERCY TO THE NON MUSLIMS
I'll add more whenever the need arises.
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