Muhammad (P.B.U.H) as a prophet of mercy in the light of English books on Sirah

Abstract

Mercy is a word that is used in opposition to intolerance, barbarity, inhumanity, and cruelty. People can be merciful when they are weak, poor, and without any authority. But when in power there are hardly a few who can keep the balance right and ensure that even their enemies are forgiven despite of their wrongdoings. Muslims have a belief that Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) is mercy for all the worlds. They strengthen their claim through the verses of the Holy Qur’ān and prophetic traditions. To address the minds of common people, irrefutable evidence forms the life of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) needs to be highlighted.  History is ruthless and has its parameters of deciding whether anyone is vindicated or is for eternity blamed for any wrongdoing. One of the parameters is that even your critics should accept the authenticity of your claim. This paper discusses the different aspects of the life of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H). Special emphasis has been placed on the English books on Sirah. This includes books of some major Orientalists and writers who are also sometimes critical about the life of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) and Islam. Allegations such as the incident of Banu Qurayza on the mercy of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) also have been discussed in the light of writings of English and Orientalist Writings.