Voice of British Muslim Women

Nooresahar Ahmad, Hartlepool

The Holy Prophet’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) role in our day-to-day lives as Muslims is obvious and profound. But how often do we step back and consider his influence over the world at large – an influence still prevalent to this day? The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) is a figure unlike any other in history, who transformed its course forever; sent by God over 1400 years ago to teach mankind and to this day, we are still learning.

Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) life has been a source of wonder and awe for billions throughout history, Muslim and non-Muslim alike. In his book ‘The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History’, Michael H Hart placed the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) as the most influential person in human history, describing him as, “the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular level.”

Whilst this is a clear recognition of the impact the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) has had on this world, the truest and most honourable quote regarding him comes from the Quran itself: ‘Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model, for him who fears Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah much.’ (33:22).

In an age which seems characterised by conflict, it perhaps is natural that upon contemplating the Holy Prophet’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) influence in the world today, I was most inclined to look at his unparalleled example in upholding justice and keeping the peace. Whilst the extent to which he would go to appease possible conflict is an example which remains unmatched, it is still possible to see its effect working on modern day institutions and laws.

For example, during war, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) set out rules and regulations which bear a striking resemblance to modern laws of war which are internationally recognised. The Holy Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) rules, which in fact were far better than anything the world has yet implemented, included: not striking fear into the general population or harming civilians; that the least possible harm should be done to the enemy; that prisoners of war should be kept in comfort and clothed and fed as well as the Muslims were themselves.

In modern day law, the principles of distinction (wherein belligerents must distinguish between combatants and civilians) and military necessity (making sure any attack is intended to help in the defeat of an enemy, and doesn’t cause excessive harm) are internationally recognised.

Furthermore, the Geneva Convention, established in 1929, outlines the rules regarding the fair treatment of prisoners of war . Once more, the influence of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) is potent, though his original example is even more distinguished. His laws further include the protection of all women, children and elderly, fruit-bearing trees, crops, public buildings and religious figures.

Today, these laws are perceived as modern and progressive – to think a leader would have established and upheld them 1400 years ago seems impossible. Yet the truth of the matter is that they are not an original creation – rather, they seem an imitation of the guidelines set out by Allah’s messenger centuries ago. Not only has the Holy Prophet’s (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) example stood the test of time, it continues to exert its influence over the modern world today.