The history of Islam began in the sacred city of Makkah, in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, during the 7th century CE. At that time, Arabian society was engulfed in ignorance, tribal wars, and moral decay. Idolatry was common, injustice was widespread, and the weak were oppressed.
Amid this darkness, a man was born who would change the course of history forever — Muhammad ibn Abdullah (peace be upon him). Known among his people as Al-Amin, “the trustworthy one,” he was admired for his honesty, wisdom, and noble character.
At the age of forty, while meditating in the cave of Hira, the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared to him with the first divine revelation:
“Read, in the name of your Lord who created…”
(Surat Al-‘Alaq, Verse 1)
This moment marked the beginning of Islam — a message calling humanity to worship One God (Allah), to uphold justice, and to live with compassion and equality.
The Early Struggle in Makkah
When the Prophet Muhammad ï·º began to preach this new message, the leaders of Quraysh opposed him fiercely. They saw Islam as a threat to their power and traditions. The early Muslims were mocked, tortured, and even killed for their faith.
Despite the persecution, the Prophet remained steadfast. He preached patience, kindness, and perseverance. Some of his followers, seeking safety, migrated to Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), where the Christian king Negus (An-Najaashi) welcomed them and granted them protection.
The Hijrah and the Birth of a New Nation
In 622 CE, after years of oppression, Allah commanded the Prophet to migrate to Madinah. This event, known as the Hijrah, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
In Madinah, the Prophet Muhammad ï·º established the first Islamic community (Ummah) based on faith, equality, and brotherhood. He drafted the Constitution of Madinah, guaranteeing rights and responsibilities for Muslims, Jews, and others who lived under the new state.
Soon after, the Muslims were forced to defend themselves against the Quraysh in several key battles:
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Battle of Badr (624 CE): The first major victory for the Muslims, despite being vastly outnumbered.
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Battle of Uhud (625 CE): A test of faith and patience after initial victory turned to loss.
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Battle of the Trench (627 CE): A brilliant defensive strategy led by the Prophet saved Madinah from invasion.
These battles were not fought for conquest or wealth, but for freedom of faith and the right to live with dignity.
The Triumph of Faith
Within just a few years, Islam spread rapidly across Arabia. Through patience, wisdom, and divine guidance, the Prophet ï·º united tribes that had been enemies for generations.
In the year 630 CE, the Prophet and his followers returned to Makkah peacefully. Instead of revenge, he declared forgiveness for his former enemies, entering the city with humility. The idols of the Kaaba were destroyed, and the words of truth were proclaimed:
“There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
The Final Message
Before his passing in 632 CE, the Prophet Muhammad ï·º delivered his Farewell Sermon, emphasizing equality, justice, and compassion:
“All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab, except by piety and good action.”
His message remains timeless — a call for unity, peace, and the worship of the One Creator.
Conclusion
The rise of Islam was not merely a religious event — it was the dawn of a new civilization built on faith, knowledge, and justice. From a single revelation in the quiet cave of Hira emerged a message that transformed nations and continues to guide humanity today.
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