Death of Prophet Muhammed – September 25, 2022, history significance why we celebrate
The Death of Prophet Muhammad occurs annually on the 28th day of the Islamic month of Safar and this year, that falls on September 25. Each year the date of the public holiday in Iran changes based on the sightings of the moon. Not only does this day commemorate the Death of Prophet Muhammad but also the Martyrdom of Imam Hassan. Both of these are important events to Shi’a Muslims.
The day is observed with a simple dinner followed by prayers and a sermon at the mosque. The observance provides followers an opportunity to focus on the important teaching of the Prophet. The basic teachings are to be good and do good and to refrain from doing immoral things and committing vices.
HISTORY OF DEATH OF PROPHET MUHAMMED
The Prophet Muhammad is the founder of Islam and the proclaimer of the “Quran.” It is said that he was born in 570 A.D. in Mecca and died on June 8, 632 A.D. in Medina. The cause of death is not recorded but it is assumed it was due to fever.
He was born into the Quraish tribe in Mecca. They were successful merchants and controlled the trade routes along the west coast of Arabia, north to Syria, and south to Yemen. He worked for several years as a merchant before being hired by Khadija, a wealthy widow whom he eventually married.
When he was around 40 years old he began having visions and hearing voices. Whilst meditating on Mount Hira, near Mecca the Archangel Gabriel appeared to him and instructed him to recite “in the name of [your] lord.” This was the start of the series of revelations that formed the basis of the holy book of Islam — the “Quran.”
His revelations and teachings of a single god angered many of the Meccan merchants. His position within the tribe was unstable and in 622 A.D., he headed to Medina. He continued to teach his revelations and built a community of followers. They continued to clash with the Quraish tribe until eventually Mecca surrendered and Muhammad took over the city.
Before his death, he had not named a successor. This led to the emergence of the Shi’a and Sunni sects of Islam. The Shi’a believed that only those with a direct lineage to the Prophet could guide the Muslim community, and the Sunnis believed that the Prophet’s successor should be determined by consensus. The Sunni and Shi’a branches still remain divided within Islam.
DEATH OF PROPHET MUHAMMED TIMELINE
570 A.D.
Birth
Muhammad is born in Mecca in 570.
610 A.D.
First Revelation
Muhammad receives his first revelation on Mount Hira.
622 A.D.
Muhammad Undertakes the Hegira
Muhammed departs on Hegira (Hijra), the journey from Mecca to Medina, establishing the start of the Islamic calendar.
624 A.D.
Battle of Badr
The Battle of Badr takes place and Muhammad’s forces win.
629 A.D.
First Pilgrimage After Migration
The first Pilgrimage is made by Muhammad and his community of followers to Mecca after migrating to Medina.
632 A.D.
Muhammad Dies
Muhammad dies in Medina, not naming a successor to lead the Muslim people.
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HOW TO OBSERVE DEATH OF PROPHET MUHAMMED
Eat a simple dinner
Eat a simple dinner followed by prayers and a sermon at the mosque. You will find this cleanses the spirit.
Research the history of Islam
Research the history and current information about Islam and familiarize yourself with the culture. Spread what you’ve learned amongst your peers and hold discussions.
Do an act of service or good deed for someone
Do an act of service for someone to honor the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. This will make you feel good as well as uphold the values of Islam.
5 FACTS ABOUT ISLAM
The second-largest religion
There are about 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide making Islam the second-largest religion in the world after Christianity.
The youngest of the major world religions
Islam is believed to have been created in the seventh century, making it the youngest of the major world religions.
Muslims are monotheistic
Muslims worship Allah, who is the one, all-knowing God.
The Haji is a pilgrimage
The Haji is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca and every Muslim should do this pilgrimage at least once in their life.
Muslims pray five times a day
These prayers are also known as Salat. Every Muslim should pray five times a day at specific times.
WHY DEATH OF PROPHET MUHAMMED IS IMPORTANT
It is an important reminder for us to be kind to each other
The day is a reminder to honor the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and show kindness to all. Celebrate this day with an act of kindness.
It teaches us death is a part of life
This day teaches us that death is a part of life. We should live as fully present as we can.
It expands our knowledge
Observing this day brings attention to Islam and the Muslim community, practices, and way of life. Expand your knowledge on this day.
