Seerah 01-05: The Early Revelation of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | ZAD Academy Audio | Blogpost by Zayd Haji

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,
I am Zayd Haji, a student at Zad Academy.

The life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ can be divided into two important phases: the Meccan period and the Madinan period. Each stage had unique lessons and challenges, shaping the message of Islam. This blog post explores the preparation, first revelation, and the early prophetic experiences of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, derived from authentic sources of the Qur’an and Hadith.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born into Mecca and lived for 40 years before receiving the divine revelation. Although orphaned at an early age, Allah Himself protected and nurtured him. His father passed away before his birth, his mother when he was six, and his grandfather at eight. Despite these hardships, Allah preserved him from idolatry, immorality, and the common practices of ignorance prevalent in Mecca.

“Did He not find you an orphan and give you refuge? And He found you lost and guided you.” (Qur’an 93:6-7, Quran.com)

From his youth, the Prophet ﷺ was known as Al-Amin (the trustworthy). His people trusted him with their belongings and respected his wisdom. However, the Prophet ﷺ never worshipped idols nor engaged in their practices, distancing himself from shirk.

Seeking closeness to Allah, the Prophet ﷺ would spend days in the Cave of Hira reflecting upon creation and the Oneness of God. This period of reflection was part of Allah’s divine preparation for the great responsibility of prophethood.

As Allah says:
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.” (Qur’an 3:190, Quran.com)

The Prophet ﷺ’s fitrah (pure nature) inclined him to worship the Creator alone, though he did not yet know the exact way until the revelation began.

When the Prophet ﷺ was in the cave at the age of 40, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) appeared and commanded him, “Iqra” (Read/Recite). The Prophet ﷺ replied, “I cannot read.” This happened three times until Jibreel revealed the first verses of the Qur’an:

“Recite in the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clinging substance. Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous – Who taught by the pen – Taught man that which he knew not.” (Qur’an 96:1-5, Quran.com)

Startled by the experience, the Prophet ﷺ rushed home to Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), who comforted and reassured him. She reminded him of his noble character, saying Allah would never disgrace one who helps the poor, supports the needy, and maintains kinship ties.

After a brief pause in revelation, the Prophet ﷺ once again encountered Angel Jibreel in his full majestic form, filling the horizon. The second revelation confirmed his mission, not only as a prophet but as a messenger sent to warn humanity:

“O you who covers himself with a garment, arise and warn. And glorify your Lord. And purify your garments. And avoid uncleanliness.” (Qur’an 74:1-5, Quran.com)

The Prophet ﷺ never faltered in conveying the message, for Allah assured him:
“Your companion [Muhammad] has not strayed, nor has he erred. Nor does he speak from [his own] inclination. It is not but a revelation revealed.” (Qur’an 53:2-4, Quran.com)

• The early life of the Prophet ﷺ teaches us that Allah prepares His chosen ones with patience, trials, and protection.

• Seclusion and reflection are paths toward spiritual clarity.

• The Qur’an is a direct source of guidance revealed through Allah’s mercy, and it must remain central in our lives.

• Supporting others, helping the poor, and maintaining honesty bring Allah’s support and blessings.

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved of deeds to Allah are those that are most consistent, even if they are few.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 6464, Sunnah.com)

By following his example of sincerity, consistency, and devotion, we too can strengthen our faith and relationship with Allah.