Islamic history

The life of the Prophet ﷺ

A clear chronological introduction to the Seerah—and the character behind the events.

Childhood and early life · c. 570–610 CE

  • Muhammad ﷺ was born in Makkah into Banu Hashim and was orphaned young.
  • He became known as al-Amin—the trustworthy—and worked as a shepherd and merchant.
  • He married Khadijah رضي الله عنها, whose support was central at the beginning of revelation.

The first revelation · 610 CE

  • While worshipping in the cave of Hira, Jibril brought the opening words of Surah al-Alaq.
  • Khadijah comforted him and Waraqah ibn Nawfal recognized the prophetic call.
  • The earliest Muslims learned faith, prayer and character quietly before the public call.

Makkah: patience under persecution

  • The Prophet ﷺ called to tawhid, care for the weak and accountability before Allah ﷻ.
  • Believers faced boycott, torture and loss; some migrated to Abyssinia for protection.
  • The Year of Sorrow was followed by al-Isra wal-Mi‘raj and the gift of the five prayers.

Hijrah and Madinah · 622 CE

  • The Hijrah was a planned migration for safety and the freedom to worship—not an escape from responsibility.
  • The Prophet ﷺ built the mosque, joined the Muhajirun and Ansar in brotherhood and established a civic covenant.
  • Madinah became a community shaped by worship, justice, consultation and mutual responsibility.

Major events

  • Badr, Uhud and the Trench were defining defensive conflicts with lasting spiritual lessons.
  • The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah showed patience, diplomacy and long-term wisdom.
  • At the peaceful opening of Makkah, the Prophet ﷺ displayed restraint and broad forgiveness.

Final sermon, character and legacy · 632 CE

  • During the Farewell Hajj he emphasized the sanctity of life, property and honour, women’s rights, trust and human equality.
  • At home he served his family; with people he was gentle, truthful, courageous, humorous without lying and merciful to children and animals.
  • He completed his mission and died in Madinah, leaving the Quran and his verified Sunnah as guidance.