The importance of following the Prophet’s example

Shahroz Ali Attari Madani

Those aspiring for success often turn to experts in their domain for insights and mentorship. For instance, individuals aiming to enhance their public speaking skills might study renowned orators, while writers often draw inspiration from esteemed authors. Similarly, in the Quran, Allah offers a clear and principled framework for Muslims on leading a righteous life. The Quran also introduces an exemplary role model to emulate for achieving success in the truest sense.

Allah declares:

لَقَدۡ کَانَ لَکُمۡ  فِیۡ رَسُوۡلِ اللّٰہِ  اُسۡوَۃٌ حَسَنَۃٌ

 “Indeed, for you following the Messenger of Allah is best”[1]

Obedience to the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم and following his example in every aspect of life, in matters of religion and the world, is essential. Without this, it is impossible to obey Allah.

Allah explains:

مَنۡ یُّطِعِ الرَّسُوۡلَ فَقَدۡ اَطَاعَ اللّٰہَ ۚ

 “Whosoever has obeyed the Messenger, he has indeed obeyed Allah”[2]

Similarly, if the practical example of the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم is disregarded, it is impossible to worship and fulfil the commands of Allah.

For example, Allah ordains:

                                                                                                                                                  وَ اَقِیۡمُوا الصَّلٰوۃَ                 

 “And keep salah (obligatory prayer) established”[3]

Allah has provided directives in the Quran, but the specifics on executing these commands are not always explicitly detailed. The manner and timings of salah, for instance, are explained through the life and practices of the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم. He declared for us to

صَلُّوا كَمَا رَأَيْتُمُونِي أُصَلِّي

 “Pray as you see me praying.”[4]

 Allah announced:

                                                                                                                                   وَ لِلّٰہِ عَلَی النَّاسِ حِجُّ الۡبَیۡتِ

 “And performing hajj of this House, for the sake of Allah, is (an obligation) upon the people”[5]

The precise rites of hajj and its conditions can only be learnt from the life of the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم, as he himself said:

خُذُوا عَنِّي مَنَاسِكَكُمْ

“Learn the rites of hajj from me.”[6]

From the verses mentioned, it becomes clear that for guidance in all facets of life, it is imperative to turn to the life of the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم. What would the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم do? How did he interact with his Companions عَـلَيْهِمُ الرِّضْوَانْ? What was he like with his pure wives and blessed family? Regardless of whether a matter pertains to religious principles or worldly affairs, we should consistently look to the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم.

The next article will be regarding differing societal demographics and how the Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم interacted with them. 

اٰمِیْن بِجَاہِ خاتَمِ النَّبِیّیْن صلَّی اللہ علیہ واٰلہٖ وسلَّم