Allah in the name of, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praises be to Allah, Who has sent His most beloved Messenger, Muhammad ibn Abdullah (Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him), as the final Prophet, the perfect guide for humanity, and a mercy to the worlds. Our beloved Prophet is Al-Mustafa (The Chosen One), Rahmatul-lil-Alameen (Mercy to the Worlds), Al-Amin (The Trustworthy), Khatam an-Nabiyyin (The Seal of the Prophets), and Ash-Shafi’ (The Intercessor on the Day of Judgement). He is As-Sadiq (The Truthful), whose life exemplified the highest moral virtues, and An-Nadhir (The Warner), who brought the final revelation to guide humanity towards righteousness.
His blessed life, from his luminous birth in Makkah to his ascension to the Divine Presence on the Night of Mi’raj, stands as the greatest example for believers to follow. The light of his guidance continues to shine for those who seek to walk in the way of truth and justice. His deep love for his Ummah (followers) is unparalleled, and it is through his intercession that we hope for salvation on the Day of Reckoning.
With such a lofty status conferred upon him by Allah Himself, it becomes imperative for every believer to safeguard the honor and dignity of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Any
act of disrespect or blasphemy against him is not merely an attack on an individual, but on the very core of our faith. It is upon this sacred responsibility that the Muslim world must reflect, standing firm in defense of the greatest of all Prophets (PBUH).
The issue of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is one of the most sensitive and pressing concerns for Muslims globally. The deep love and reverence for the Prophet is an inseparable part of a Muslim’s faith, as he is not only the epitome of mercy, truth, and justice but also the beloved of Allah, reason for the creation of Adam (PBUH) and children of Adam . In light of recent events and discussions, some individuals, including those claiming to be Muslims, have dishonored those standing against blasphemous acts, undermining the unity and duty of the Muslim community.
The Significance of Love for the Prophet (PBUH):
In Islam, love for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is not merely an emotional attachment; it is a fundamental aspect of faith. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“This (Esteemed) Prophet is nearer to and has a greater claim on the believers than their own souls…” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:6)
This verse signifies the deep connection Muslims must have with the Prophet, placing his status above their personal desires and interests. Loving and respecting the Prophet is an essential part of our relationship with Allah, as he is the beloved of the Creator and the bearer of His final message.
The Quranic Guidance on Respect for the Prophet:
The Qur’an explicitly commands believers to honor and respect the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Several verses emphasize the importance of reverence for him, warning against any disrespect:
1. Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:2:
“O you who believe! Do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak loudly to him as you speak loudly to one another, lest your deeds become null while you perceive not.”
This verse highlights the need for utmost respect in both action and speech when addressing or mentioning the Prophet (PBUH).
2. Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:56:
“Surely, Allah and (all) His angels send blessings and
greetings on the Holy Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him). O believers! Invoke blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation of peace abundantly (and fervently)”.
Muslims are commanded to continuously send blessings upon the Prophet, demonstrating their love and devotion.
3. Surah Al-Fath, 48:8-9:
“Indeed, We have sent you as an eyewitness (of the actions and the state of affairs of Umma [Community] to bear testimony on the Day of Reckoning) and as a Bearer of good tidings and as a Warner, So that, (O people,) you may believe in Allah and His Messenger (blessings and peace be upon him) and revere and venerate him heart and soul, and (with that) glorify Allah morning and evening.”
These verses underscore the status of the Prophet as not just a messenger but someone whose honor must be protected by all believers.
The Companions’ Devotion in upholding the Honour of the Prophet (PBUH) Against Blasphemy
Throughout Islamic history, the companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) demonstrated their unwavering love and devotion to him, often risking their lives to defend his honor when faced with blasphemy. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted reverence Muslims
must hold for the Prophet (PBUH), showing that no sacrifice is too great in protecting his dignity. Numerous instances from the lives of the companions illustrate the lengths to which they went to defend him.
Events Where Companions Upholded the Prophet’s Honor
1. The Killing of Ka’b ibn Ashraf
Ka’b ibn Ashraf was a notorious enemy of Islam who insulted Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and composed poetry mocking him. After he incited hatred and conspired to Allah forbid kill the Prophet, a group of companions, including Muhammad ibn Maslama (RA) and Abu Na’ila (RA), approached the Prophet and sought permission to deal with him. The Prophet (PBUH) granted them permission, and they killed Ka’b in the night to protect the honor of the Prophet and the Muslim community.
2. The Execution of Abu Rafi’
Abu Rafi’, another opponent of Islam, was known for his derogatory remarks and attempts to harm the Prophet (PBUH). He incited tribes to attack the Muslims and was hostile towards Islam. The Prophet (PBUH) sent a group of companions led by Abdullah ibn Atik (RA) to eliminate Abu Rafi’. Abdullah successfully carried out the mission, upholding the honor of the Prophet.
3. Asma bint Marwan
Asma bint Marwan was a woman from the Banu Umayyah tribe who openly tried to insult the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) and encouraged others to oppose him. When her slander became unbearable, Umayr ibn Adi (RA) physically blind then killed her in the night without letting anyone know, understanding that the defense of the Prophet’s dignity was paramount. After the Fajr (morning) prayer, the beloved Prophet (PBUH) praised the actions of Umayr Ibn Adi (RA) in front of all the companions, although none of them knew that he had carried out the act during the night.
4. The Killing of Ibn Khatal
The event of Ibn Khatal’s execution during the Conquest of Makkah, in contrast to the compassionate act of safeguarding a female dog and her puppies, speaks volumes about the sanctity of life in Islam and the severity of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
On the day of the Conquest, despite the overwhelming victory, the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) displayed unparalleled mercy and forgiveness. He declared a general amnesty for the people of Makkah, sparing those who had long opposed him. Even as the Muslim army advanced, the Prophet (PBUH) noticed a female dog nursing her puppies along the path. He ordered one of his companions, Ju’ayl ibn Suraqa (RA), to stand guard and ensure that neither the mother nor her young were disturbed until the army had safely passed. This highlights the Prophet’s deep sense of
compassion, even towards animals, and his commitment to mercy.
However, the case of Ibn Khatal presents a stark contrast. Ibn Khatal was one of the few individuals who had been explicitly marked for punishment, despite the general pardon, due to his grave crimes, including the murder of an innocent man and his blasphemous behavior against the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). He not only betrayed the Muslim community but also openly insulted the Prophet by commissioning songs that mocked and disrespected him. When Makkah was conquered, Ibn Khatal, knowing the gravity of his crimes, sought refuge at the Kaaba, clinging to its sacred cloth, the Kiswah.
While the sanctuary of the Kaaba is a place of peace, where even animals are protected, the heinous nature of Ibn Khatal’s offenses meant that his actions had placed him beyond the reach of forgiveness. The Beloved Prophet (PBUH), in his wisdom, made it clear that the sanctity of the Haram and the Kaaba could not shield someone who had committed such severe transgressions. His execution, even while grasping the Kiswah, was a testament to the gravity of blasphemy and treachery.
This event reflects that, in Islam, there is no room for mercy or tolerance towards those who commit blasphemy against the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). Ibn Khatal’s disgrace was so immense that the holiest sanctuary on Earth, where violence is forbidden, could not protect him. The stark difference
between saving an innocent dog and executing a blasphemer underlines the sacredness of the Beloved Prophet’s honor. While Islam teaches compassion and mercy for all living beings, including animals, those who commit blasphemy or treachery against the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) face the severest consequences, as their actions strike at the very heart of the Muslim faith.
5. Salamah ibn Akwa’s (RA) Defense
Salamah ibn Akwa (RA), a companion, had an encounter with a man who insulted the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) while Salamah was herding his camels. Salamah immediately reprimanded the man, warning him against speaking ill of the Prophet. When the insults continued, Salamah killed him, not allowing any room for such blasphemy.
Quranic Revelation Regarding Blasphemers
A notable event in the Qur’an concerning blasphemy against the Prophet (PBUH) is the incident of Al-Walid ibn Al-Mughirah, a prominent figure among the disbelievers of Makkah. He insulted and rejected the message of the Prophet, accusing him of falsehood. In response, Allah revealed the reality of his character in Surah Al-Qalam:
“And do not obey every worthless habitual swearer, and scorner, going about with malicious gossip, a preventer of good, transgressing and sinful, cruel, moreover an
illegitimate pretender (of doubtful birth).” (Surah Al-Qalam, 68:10-13)
In this verse, Allah exposes Al-Walid’s dirty character, accusing him of being someone of faulty lineage, implying that he was born out of illegitimacy, later his mother validated this fact. This powerful response from Allah highlights that those who blaspheme against the Prophet (PBUH) have a deeply flawed character and lineage, a divine condemnation that cuts through time.
The conclusion drawn from this verse is significant: those who engage in the heinous crime of blasphemy against the Prophet (PBUH) have their dignity and lineage tainted. Such people are marked by a corrupt nature, and their offense is not just against the Prophet, but against the moral and ethical foundation of society.
Imam Maalik’s Stand: The Necessity of Defending the Beloved Prophet’s Honor
Caliph Harun al-Rashid asked lmam Malik about a man who insulted the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Harun al-Rashid mentioned that the scholars of lraq had given a ruling to punish the blasphemer with flogging. He asked lmam Malik for his verdict on the matter. In response, Imam Malik, enraged, said: “How can the nation survive after remaining silent on the insult to their Prophet? Whoever
insults any Prophet must be killed, and whoever insults the Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) should be flogged.”
This reflects the profound connection between a Muslim’s faith and their defense of the Prophet’s honor. Compromising on this matter, Imam Maalik argues, would amount to a failure of faith.
The Role of the Muslim World
The Muslim world today is confronted with the challenge of upholding the honor of the Prophet (PBUH) in a globalized environment where blasphemy is sometimes dismissed as “free speech.” Muslims must remain united in their response, recognizing that this issue is non-negotiable and not subject to debate.
1. Standing United: The Muslim community must present a unified front, rejecting any internal or external forces that seek to undermine the sanctity of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). This includes addressing so-called Muslims who dishonor those defending the Prophet’s honor, reminding them of their religious duty to respect and love him.
2. Educating Others: Part of defending the beloved Prophet’s honor involves educating non-Muslims about his life, character, and the reasons behind the deep love Muslims have for him. Often, blasphemous acts stem from ignorance,
which can be countered through thoughtful engagement and dialogue.
3. Peaceful Protests and Legal Action: While the emotion surrounding this issue is understandably strong, Muslims must continue to channel their grievances through peaceful protests and pursue legal avenues to protect the dignity of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). Violent responses by individuals my give fuel to those who wish to portray Islam negatively.
4. Importance of Reverential Language: A crucial responsibility for Muslims today, in their defense of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is the careful and respectful use of language when referring to Him(PBUH). Whether in personal conversations, social gatherings, or online discussions, Muslims must always employ the highest terms of reverence when speaking of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). This responsibility extends even further to those who translate the Qur’an and Hadith, as the words used to describe the Prophet (PBUH) carry immense weight. They must be chosen with the utmost care, reflecting his elevated status as the final messenger of Allah and a mercy to the worlds.
Muslims are taught to love and respect the Bloved Prophet (PBUH) more than they love themselves. This reverence
should naturally be reflected in the way we speak of Him (PBUH). Titles such as “Sayyiduna” (Our Master), “Al-Mustafa” (The Chosen One), and “Rahmatul-lil-Alameen” (Mercy to the Worlds) etc. should always accompany his name, and phrases like “Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him” (PBUH) must follow every mention of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). These are not mere formalities; they are acts of devotion that help maintain the high status of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) in our hearts and minds, reminding us and others of his exalted position.
The Qur’an itself instructs believers on how to address the Prophet:
“(O Muslims!) Do not regard the calling of the Prophet amongst you like your calling of one another. Surely, Allah knows those from amongst you (well) who slip away quietly (from the presence of the Holy Prophet [blessings and peace be upon him]) under the shelter of one another. So let those who go against the Messenger’s command (of veneration and devotion) feel afraid lest some trial should overtake them (here in the world) or a painful torment seize them in the Hereafter” (Surah An-Nur, 24:63)
This verse highlights that the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) should never be addressed casually, like an ordinary person, but always with respect and formality, which reflects his unique standing in Islam.
One of the unfortunate issues in modern times has been the
mistakes made by some translators of Islamic texts, particularly when it comes to translating the Qur’an and Hadith in non-Arabic languages. Some translators have failed to preserve the high regard due to the Beloved Prophet (PBUH), opting for neutral or even disrespectful terms that tend to dilute His dignity.
Such errors not only misrepresent the Beloved Prophet’s status but also influence how future generations perceive Him(PBUH). The failure to use proper reverence in language can slowly erode the sense of respect and attachment Muslims are required to have for the Prophet (PBUH). Over time, this can lead to a dangerous normalisation of casual or even dismissive attitudes towards the Beloved Prophet’s honor(PBUH).
In today’s digital age, where content spreads rapidly across the globe, these mistakes have far-reaching consequences. We are witnessing the fruits of such negligence in translations, as younger generations, and even non-Muslims, may encounter versions of Islamic texts that fail to convey the true status of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH). This can breed confusion, disrespect, and even blasphemy, as people who lack understanding of His elevated position may not appreciate the gravity of dishonoring Him.
For Muslims, it is vital to always ensure that the words they use in reference to the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) reflect their love, respect, and deep admiration for him. This includes
correcting others, especially in online spaces where casual discussions often occur, and encouraging the use of proper titles and phrases of reverence. By doing so, the Muslim world can continue to uphold the honor of the Beloved Prophet (PBUH), preserving his dignity for future generations.
This careful attention to language is not only an act of reverence but a safeguard against the erosion of the Prophet’s high status in the hearts of believers.
Conclusion
Blasphemy against Beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is an act that no Muslim can tolerate. The Muslim world must remain resolute in defending his honor, as the love for the Prophet is a core aspect of our faith. In this regard, there is no room for compromise, and the examples of the Prophet’s companions serve as a timeless reminder of the importance of reverence and sacrifice.
As Allah reminds us in the Qur’an, the Beloved Prophet (PBUH) holds a dignified position in the eyes of both the Creator and His creation, and it is the responsibility of every Muslim to ensure that his honor is upheld in every possible way.
It is crucial to understand that the honor and dignity of Beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) have been exalted by Allah Himself, as stated in the Qur’an:
“And We exalted for you your remembrance (by annexing it to Ours everywhere in the world and in the Hereafter).” (Surah
Ash-Sharh, 94:4)
This verse signifies that the Beloved Prophet’s (PBUH) status is divinely protected and elevated for all time, beyond the reach of any insult or blasphemy. No human act of disrespect can diminish the honor that Allah has conferred upon him, and it is Allah alone who will safeguard the Beloved Prophet’s legacy and dignity throughout eternity. Thus, while Muslims are tasked with defending the Prophet’s honor, they can take solace in knowing that his status remains eternally preserved by divine decree. Infinite peace and blessings be upon our Beloved Master, his blessed family, and all of his blessed companions.
Er. Shahzada Athar Ishaq Shah
