Life of Muhammad

by Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad

A popular edition of an excellent and affectionate account of life of the Prophet of Islam described as the most influential man in the history of the world.An orphan beckoned to the Call, persecuted by neighbours, driven from his home with a prize tag on his head, quickly establishing a strong community of believers ready to die for his teachings and finally returning triumphant only to forgive his tormentors.This biography does not merely recant the major events and turning points of Muhammad's (peace be upon him) life but helps the readers draw a code for himself from many walks of life through which Muhammad (pbuh) traversed.No one can afford to read this detailed and fascinating account and not be influenced by it. Yet, Muhammad's (pbuh) life has always been an open book pieced together by followers who observed everything he did. This book certainly opens up this life in a delightful and adoreable manner.

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 11, 2005

Reviews

[Robert Ongley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not wishing to enter into a discussion about the merits of Islam, I will keep my comments limited to the quality of the book itself and my impressions of Muhammad as a result of having read this biography.

The book, with the exception of the footnotes referring to prophets and the symbols also referencing pronunciations of Arabic words, it is straightforward in its presentation. It is an easy read with large print. There are times when the use of words is not grammatically correct, but I attribute this to imperfect translation. It's difficult for me as a writer to overlook those, but as an English speaker with only rudimentary knowledge of one language foreign to my own, I appreciate what a daunting task it must be to translate a manuscript to another language and English is not the easiest. The meaning of the author's statements come through with minimal analysis.

Most importantly, "Life of Muhammad" greatly enhanced my knowledge and understanding of this prophet. I came to learn of the kindness and love Muhammad had in his heart for humanity. His engagement in warfare and conquering his enemies has long been a sticking point for me on acceptance of this spiritual leader, but as described in this book he took up war as a last resort against persecution of his followers. He approved of war in self-defense only and whenever those engaged against him wished to talk peace, he was always ready to lay down arms for an honest negotiation. For his time and place, he was on the cutting edge of human rights. I feel much better about Muhammad due to the information in this book.

[Jo-Ann Leake · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book several years ago during Word on the Street here in Toronto. I wanted to learn more about the religion and its system of beliefs, and this volume met the challenge. I lost some of the thread during the scenes of battle and subsequent peace negotiations, but leanred some valuable understanding from the later section on beliefs of the Prophet. For example, Muslims cannot start a conflict, but are able to defend themselves during one as needed. If the one side wishes peace, then the Muslim side is obligated to settle the conflict for peace. The Prophet advises that food and resources are to be shared whenever and however possible. Sins are not publically enumerated, as the sinner can then fall into the trap of being publicly remorseful and proud of his remorse, rather than trying to really appreciate the matter of his sins and what they lead him to do. He advises against pessimism, as optimism is more conducive to faith in the Creator. These precepts are as I myself understand them after reading this book, and they may not be precisely what is meant. The Prophet provided a special understanding of Abraham and Jesus, and was ecumenical at his time.
Highly recommended as an alternative to all of the misunderstandings of Islam that permeate media.

[Artyom Szkye · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although highly biased, this is a great introduction to those unaware of the Prophet's life and thinking, who are seeking knowledge about the history and philosophy of Islam. As a complete noob on the subject, I felt like such an easy read, that encompasses most of the remarks and behavior of the Prophet and early Muslims, can spark great interest in those willing to study further or those who just want a complete summary of Muhammad's life.

[Durrah Hayati · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an easy read but offers thorough explanation about the prophet (SAW) milestones. Also a good start for those who want to know him.

[Lisa Nahar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diceritakan dengan narasi yang mengalir, untaian kata indah yang menyentuh dan membuat haru.

[Manpreet Kaur · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘A man who keeps company with virtuous people is like a person who carries about mask with him. If he partakes of it he derives benefit from it, if he sells it he makes a profit out of it and if he merely keeps it he enjoys its perfume. A man who keeps company with evil persons is like one who blows into a charcoal furnace; all that he can expect is that a spark me alight upon his clothes and set them on fire or that the gas emitted by the charcoal may upset his brain.’
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The book simply puts forth the record of Prophet Muhammad’s life in a summary. I'm always keen to learn and know about religions and their history and this one was quite helpful in a way to understand the ethical values of Islam, which are put light on in the second half of the read. Some of these are mutual cooperation, truthfulness, keeping good company, overlooking fault of others, treatment to relatives etc.
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I found the language quite easy and fluent. Definitely the kind that keeps you going. And I felt connected with the values shown through this read. 🌸