The Quran describes our Prophet ﷺ thus:

“And We have not sent you but as a mercy to the worlds.” (21:107).

This verse clearly portrays the unparalleled love, concern, and dedication for the well-being our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) had for his Ummah. His entire life was a mission dedicated to uplifting humanity, guiding them from ignorance and idolatry to the pure worship of Allah.

His concern for mankind was not only spiritual but also moral, social, and emotional. Throughout his life, we see countless examples of his love for his followers, and how his heart ached for their success in this world and salvation in the next.

The Prophet’s Noble Characteristics

From the outset of his prophethood, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) showed an immense level of compassion for humanity. Even before he received the revelation, he was known as Al-Amin (the Trustworthy) and As-Sadiq (the Truthful), and his character continued to shine through his mission. His love for his Ummah and concern for their salvation is beautifully reflected in his saying, “None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari).

This hadith places a direct link between one’s faith and his concern for the welfare of fellow brothers. As much as one would desire Paradise in the next world for one’s own self, it is also important to wish the same for those around him.

Similarly, as much as one would detest and fear punishment in the hell fire in the next world for one’s own self, it is also expected that he does so for his fellow human beings around him. This is why the concept of enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil is not only highly praiseworthy in Islam but also mandated depending on the direness of the situation or the act being committed.

His Devotion to Guiding Mankind

It would be no exaggeration to mention that his entire prophetic mission revolved around the concern he had for his Ummah. The Qur'an captures the Prophet's ﷺ deep concern for the salvation of his Ummah in several verses. One of the most poignant places in Quran where Allah mentions is: 'Perhaps you would kill yourself (O Muhammad) with grief that they do not become believers.' (Qur'an 26:3).

Another similar verse reads thus: 'Perhaps, you would kill yourself in grief, over their footsteps, because they believe not in this narration.' (Qur'an 18:6). These verses highlight the Prophet'sﷺ  strong emotional and spiritual connection to his mission, to the extent that he would be on the verge of fretting himself to death from worry over people’s rejection of Islam. Hence, Allah consoled the prophet ﷺ saying: “Do not destroy yourself with regret”. (Tafseer Ibn Katheer).

Despite this rejection, his commitment to bringing people back to the worship of Allah remained unwavering. His deep concern was not just for those who accepted his message, but also for those who turned away. He carried their burdens with grace, constantly praying for their guidance.

The Incident at Ta'if: Compassion in the Face of Persecution

One of the most significant episodes that exemplifies the Prophet’s mercy and concern for his Ummah occurred during his journey to Ta'if. Seeking refuge and support for his mission after the people of Makkah had rejected him, the Prophet (ﷺ) journeyed to Taaif with very high hopes of the acceptance of his message. But, lo and behold, he was instead met with brutal hostility. The people mocked him and pelted him with stones, causing his blessed body to bleed.

Even at this point of time, when he could have easily avenged the people for their oppression towards him, he chose forgiveness not only for them but also prayed for the spiritual health of their progeny. When the Angel of the Mountains came to him and offered to crush the valley in retaliation, the Prophet’s response was truly remarkable, despite the humiliation and pain he faced.

He refused the offer, saying, “I hope that Allah will bring forth from their loins, people who will worship Allah alone and without associating any partners with Him.”. This act of forgiveness and mercy illustrates his deep concern not just for his current followers but also for the generations to come.

Another Beautiful Teaching of Prophet ﷺ

Ibn Umar reported: The Prophet ﷺ said, “The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people. The most beloved deed to Allah is to make a Muslim happy, or remove one of his troubles, or forgive his debt, or feed his hunger. That I walk with a brother regarding a need is more beloved to me than that I seclude myself in this mosque in Medina for a month.

Whoever swallows his anger, then Allah will conceal his faults. Whoever suppresses his rage, even though he could fulfill his anger if he wished, then Allah will secure his heart on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever walks with his brother regarding a need until he secures it for him, then Allah Almighty will make his footing firm across the bridge on the day when the footings are shaken.” (al-Mu’jam al-Awsaṭ lil-Ṭabarānī)

Each sentence of this beautiful Hadith emphasizes the importance of helping others and being a source of benefit to people. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) teaches us that being beneficial to others is a path to earning Allah's love.

His Final Words: A Testament to His Concern for the Marginalized

Even in his final moments, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) expressed his concern for his Ummah. His last words reflected his continuous care for their spiritual well-being: “The prayer, the prayer! And fear Allah regarding those under your care.” (Sunan Ibn Majah). This Hadith reflects the Prophet’s (PBUH) concern for both the rights of Allah (prayer) and the rights of people, especially the vulnerable.

The concern of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) for his Ummah is one of the most beautiful and inspiring aspects of his life. His unwavering commitment to guiding humanity to worship Allah, his compassion in the face of persecution, and his constant prayers for his followers’ well-being demonstrate his selfless dedication. His concern was not limited to this world, as he continued to care for his Ummah in the Hereafter.

As we reflect on his life, we should strive to embody his compassion and selflessness, and live according to the principles he taught—love for one another, devotion to Allah, and concern for the welfare of all.

Living at a time when vices such as selfishness, greed, envy, hedonism, narcissism, materialism, consumerism etc. rule the roost in almost all walks of our life, the Prophet’s example not only serves as a guiding light for the Muslims, but also reminds the entire humanity of the profound impact that one individual, with sincerity and love for humanity, can have on the world. If only his ideals are adhered to, the world will definitely be a much better place to live in!

May Allah allow us all to be moulded by the teachings of this great teacher to walk the face of earth! Ameen.