Book review of ‘Muhammad Arabi (SAW)’ by Innayatullah Asad Subhani

Book review of ‘Muhammad Arabi (SAW)’ by Innayatullah Asad Subhani

I recommend this book for beginners as it is written in easy language and a polite manner, making it easily understandable. Summarizing such a great and deep journey leaves me in tears due to its rich lessons and strong Islamic teachings.

This book, “Muhammad e Arabi (SAW),” is a seerah book written by Innayatullah Asad Subhani, which takes us to the time of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The author narrates the events of the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in an amazing way. He discusses everything about the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in a systematic manner, resembling a story, from his childhood up to his demise.
The book consists of 14 chapters, each revealing how Prophet Muhammad (SAW) spent his life, dealt with struggles, and faced cruelties from the Kufar, Quraish, and others. The author also highlights the patience of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and how he tolerated cruelty and misbehaviour from the enemies. The book depicts how the initial love of the Quraishites for Prophet Muhammad (SAW) turned into hostility when he called people towards the path of Allah, resulting in hatred, harm, and more. The entire history of the Holy Prophet is clearly presented in this book, allowing readers to easily grasp the life, struggles, achievements, and more of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The first chapter of this book, titled “Hoti Hai Sehar Paida” explores the aspects of pre-Islamic Arabian society and the lineage of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It describes the ignorance of the people of Arabs at that time, their engagement in polytheism, and the worship of idols. The major idols, such as Lāt, ‘Uza, Hubul, and Manāt, are mentioned. The chapter also covers the construction of the well Zam Zam, the marriage of the Prophet’s father Abdullah to Amina, and Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) arrival in the land of Arabs.
The second chapter, “Kirnai Ubarti Hai” delves into the demise of Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) grandfather, the guidance of his uncle Abu Talib, and the Prophet’s first journey towards Syria. It narrates the marriage of the Prophet to Khadijah and the reconstruction of Ka’bah. The character of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is discussed, emphasizing titles given to him by the Arab society like Al Sideeq (The truthful) and Al Amīn (The honest, trustworthy).
The third chapter, “Khuda Ke Awaaz” deals with the message and prophethood, recounting how Jibriel brought down the revelation in the cave of Hira and the conditions Prophet Muhammad (SAW) faced. The chapter details the harsh behaviour of the Qurashites and the interruption of Wahi (revelation).
The fourth chapter, “Pehli Pukar” covers the three years of the secret call of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) towards Allah’s path. It discusses the love and support from his uncle Abu Talib and the cruelty of his second uncle Abu Lahab, who harmed Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Prophet’s sermon on Mount Safa and the kind support of Abu Talib are also mentioned.
The fifth chapter, “Toofani Kashmukash” addresses the opposition of Qurashites to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), especially Abu Jahal, who was harsh towards him. The chapter also covers the acceptance of Hamzah’s Islam, resulting in increased harm to Muslims.
The sixth chapter, “Kali Ghatayai” narrates the hijrah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to Abyssinia (Ethiopia). It discusses the machinations of Quraish against the emigrants, the warm welcome of Muslims by Najashi, and the incident of Umar’s plan to kill Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The year of grief, including the deaths of Khadijah and Abu Talib, is detailed.
The seventh chapter, “Nazuk Marhalai” addresses the extreme tyranny from Qurash and Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) marriage to Sawdah and Aisha. It covers the journey towards Taif and their brutal behaviour towards Prophet Muhammad (SAW), along with the acceptance of Islam by a group of Jinns.
The eighth chapter, “Aur Karwaan Banta Gaya” recounts the incident of Al-Isra and Al-Mi’raj, the pledges of ‘Aqabah (1st and 2nd), the war between Aus and Khazraj, and the beginning of a new life at Madinah.
The ninth chapter, “Alvida!!A Watan” discusses the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) towards Madinah, the brotherhood between the Muhajirīn and Ansār, and the failure of Jews.
The tenth chapter, “Dawat-e-Haq Talwaru Ke Chawau Mai” deals with the permission of battle, pre-Badr missions, invasions, and Abu Sufyan’s journey towards Syria.
The eleventh chapter, “Khoon-e-Dil o Jiger Se Hai Sarmayai Hayat,” addresses all the battles Prophet Muhammad (SAW) fought after hijrah and the banishment of Banu Qainuqa.
The twelfth chapter, “Mashaal-e-Tawheed Par Andhhiyu Ki Yalgar,” deals with the banishment of Banu Nazīr, the battle of trench, and the failure of Qurashites to cross the trench (Khandaq).
The thirteenth chapter, “Aur—- But Toot Gayai” covers the rumor of Uthman’s death, the pledge of Ridhwan, the treaty of Hudaibiya, its clauses, and the breach of the covenant.
The fourteenth and last chapter, “Dam-e-Wapsi,” addresses Hajj al Wada (The farewell hajj) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the sermon he gave at Arafat. It also covers Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) last advice to Muslims and his decision to appoint Abu Bakr as Caliph. The book concludes with the last moments of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on earth, emphasizing, “We belong to Allah and to Allah we shall return.”
Islam is an exclusive religion, and its doctrines and practices are open only to true believers. “Muhammad Arabi” not only provides a historical background of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) but also imparts great moral lessons.
Innayatullah Asad Subhani has written this book in Urdu in a systematic way. After reading this book, I am eager to explore other books related to the history of Islam and the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). This book contains many lessons, and upon completion, I was deeply moved, shedding tears due to its impactful language. It deserves an important place in the collection of biographies.
One notable characteristic of this book is that while reading it, the reader feels the love of Allah and the Messenger (SAW). I recommend this book for beginners as it is written in easy language and a polite manner, making it easily understandable. Summarizing such a great and deep journey leaves me in tears due to its rich lessons and strong Islamic teachings.
The writer is pursuing an MA in Islamic Studies at the Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal. Feedback at [email protected]

 

 

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