❖ Evaluating Prophets: More Than Just Miracles
Assessing the lives of prophets merely on the basis of their miracles is insufficient; one must also consider the profound impact they had on humanity—how they shaped human thought and action in ways that left enduring effects. From this perspective, even non-Muslim authors have penned articles about the influence of Muhammad ﷺ on human history, leaving intellectuals in awe.❖ Answering the Allegation of “Muhammad ﷺ and the Sword”
Objections regarding the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ “Jihad,” meaning “Qitāl” (armed struggle), have been addressed previously. In reality, the strength of a prophet’s argument is reflected in his dialogue. The Qur’anic method of discourse stands as a prime example—an effective way to obliterate falsehood. The Prophet’s ﷺ era was a practical demonstration of this argumentation and clarification.❖ Debates with the People of the Book
Numerous examples from both the Makkan and Madinan periods can be cited, but here we present a brief scene of the Prophet ﷺ engaging with the People of the Book. In the New Testament, one can observe the confidence of Prophet Isa (علیہ السلام)—a hallmark of a true prophet. Similarly, the personality of Muhammad ﷺ displayed an unwavering certainty. This confrontation is, in essence, a test of “belief in the unseen,” where certain veils are intentionally maintained as part of a divine plan.❖ The Church of Najrān: A Prestigious Christian Center
In Arabia, the Church of Najrān—under the patronage of the Roman Empire—was considered the most prominent place of worship after the Kaʿbah. In the 9th year of Hijrah, the Prophet ﷺ sent a message to the Archbishop of Najrān, Hārithah ibn ʿAlqamah, inviting him to accept guidance or pay Jizyah. In response, a large delegation from Najrān came to Madinah. At this moment, the opening verses of Sūrah Āl ʿImrān were revealed.❖ Christian Delegation’s Stay in Masjid al-Nabawī
Sixty Christian representatives from Najrān were accommodated in Masjid al-Nabawī. They were even allowed to perform prayers according to their religion. The Prophet ﷺ instructed the people: “Let them be.”❖ Invitation to Islam
Addressing two prominent Christian scholars from Najrān, the Prophet ﷺ said, “Become obedient servants of God.” They replied that they already were. The Prophet ﷺ rejected their claim, saying that they were not truly obedient and submissive to God.❖ Qur’anic Clarification of the Reality of Christianity
When the Christian delegation questioned the status of Prophet Isa (علیہ السلام), the verses of Sūrah Āl ʿImrān were revealed, describing his true nature:“Indeed, the example of ʿĪsā in the sight of Allah is like that of Ādam…” (Āl ʿImrān: 59)
Following this, the challenge of Mubāhalah (mutual invocation of divine curse) was presented:
“Then whoever disputes with you about it after knowledge has come to you, say, ‘Come, let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women…’” (Āl ʿImrān: 61)
❖ Debate Between Jews and Christians
Both Jews and Christians were laying claim to Prophet Ibrāhīm (علیہ السلام). The Qur'an addressed them:“Ibrāhīm was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was a true Muslim, devoted to Allah…” (Āl ʿImrān: 67)
The Jews and Christians asked the Prophet ﷺ, “Do you want us to abandon Isa (علیہ السلام) and worship you instead?” The Prophet ﷺ responded that Allah had not sent him for such a purpose.
❖ The Event of Mubāhalah
The Prophet ﷺ, along with his family, came forth prepared for Mubāhalah. However, the Christians of Najrān declined and chose to pay Jizyah instead. A treaty was then given to the people of Najrān, guaranteeing their religious rights:“In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate… No bishop of theirs shall be removed, nor any monk or priest…”
(From Zād al-Maʿād by Ibn al-Qayyim)
