Welcome to the 85th weekly episode of the series Let’s know Islam. Today, we study other characteristic traits of the Prophet of Islam, Mohammad (Blessings of God upon him and his progeny) such as his consultations and simple lifestyle.

Prophet Mohammad highly consulted with his disciples throughout his life. Islamic teachings have put emphasis on consultations; and Holy Quran has also put emphasis on this duty. Usually those, who hold consultations with others are lesser regretful, compared to others. The Prophet of Islam has been cited as saying that when your rulers are good doers, your wealthy and powerful are generous, and you hold consultations in your tasks, you deserve to live on Earth. However, if your rulers are bad; your wealthy and powerful are not generous, and consultations are not held, in this case you do not deserve to live on Earth.

The Prophet of Islam always consulted with his disciples. In the Battle of Ohod, when informants reported to the Prophet of Islam that Qoraish Tribe is preparing an attack against Medina, Prophet Mohammad formed a military council to confront Qoraish troopers, while calling on people to express their views in this regard.

Abdullah ibn Obay urged Muslims to remain in the city amid this battle. He said that during the Age of Ignorance, the residents of Medina fought inside cities, while locating women and children in fenced regions, handing over a number of stones to them. The residents of Medina also connected homes to each other in a manner that resembled a fortification. Meanwhile, women and children hurled stones from above fences, while men confronted the enemy with their swords.

In contrast to this proposal, some favored leaving Medina and confronting the enemy outside town. A number of seasoned and vigilant men such as Hamzeh son of Abdul-Mottaleb, believed in battling the enemy outside Medina. They told the Prophet of Islam that the enemy might imagine Muslims have not left the city due to a number of fears, which would in turn embolden the foes. These individuals reminded others of Badr Battle, and announced that they longed for either martyrdom for the sake of God or victory.

The Prophet of Islam, upon listening to the remarks and reasons presented by the two groups, prioritized the view of enthusiastic and faithful youths, who were in the majority, to the view of others and even himself. Then the Prophet went home, took up his arms and headed for the battlefield. Muslims were defeated in this battle. However, interestingly, after this defeat, God orders him to once again hold consultations, while noting that the final decision should be made by their leader.

It has been cited that the Prophet of Islam also held consultations on sending individuals for administration of a particular region; and governance of regions, which were administered by Muslims. Prophet Mohammad pointed out: Consult with the pious, because they are the ones who prefer Hereafter to the material world; and prioritize your topics of importance. Consult with the prudent individuals and do not disobey them. Otherwise, you will regret it.

The Prophet of Islam went on to add that consultation with a prudent, benevolent individual is divine blessing. So, whenever a wise, benevolent individual presents his viewpoint, don’t oppose it. Whoever holds consultations with a sage is guided toward the righteous path.

In a number of other Islamic narrations, it has been pointed out that Prophet Mohammad highly honored and respected guests. The Prophet spread mats on the floor for guests to sit on, and never left the dining table as long as his guests were eating their meals.

Prophet also led a very simple lifestyle. He slept on a simple carpet and straw mats, and patched his shoes and clothes. He was forgiving toward those, who at times insulted him. He personally went to the marketplace to buy goods, and helped in the house chores. He spoke kindly in gatherings. At times, in order to make others understand his remarks, he repeated his remarks up to three times. He never complained over the meals he didn’t like. He paid attention to his haircut, his clothes, and health of his teeth. He respectfully responded to people’s questions, irrespective of whether his addressee was a woman, a man, or a child. He visited patients and sympathized with them. He wore neat clothes and rewarded benefactors. He always remembered God Almighty and was never indifferent toward bad and good deeds, while treating people kindly and respectfully. He also never cursed his enemies, and pleaded to God to guide everyone. He amicably shook hands and always called for respectful treatment of captives and slaves. The Prophet also treated the rich and the poor equally and never aimed to find any fault in others.

Next week, we will become more familiar with the other traditions and characteristic traits of the Prophet of Islam, Mohammad (Blessings of God upon him and his progeny). God bless and take care.

MR/EA