The death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) marks a pivotal moment in Islamic history, a profound loss that reverberated across the Muslim world and continues to resonate in the hearts of believers today. This article explores the significance of his departure, the circumstances surrounding his passing, and the deep emotional and spiritual impact it had on his companions and followers.
The Death Of Prophet Muhammad (saw)
The Final Illness
In the 11th year of the Hijra, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) began to show signs of illness. The Messenger of Allah (SAW), who had led his community with unparalleled compassion and wisdom, was facing the final days of his earthly life. His ailment was characterized by severe fever and weakness, a stark contrast to the strength and vitality he had exhibited throughout his life.
As his health deteriorated, the Prophet (SAW) sought solace and care in the house of his beloved wife, Aisha (RA). It was here that he spent his final days, surrounded by his closest companions and family members. Despite his suffering, the Prophet (SAW) continued to lead the prayers and provide guidance to his followers, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his mission and his ummah.
The Farewell Sermon: A Timeless Message
During his final pilgrimage, the Prophet (SAW) delivered his Farewell Sermon, a powerful and poignant message that encapsulated the essence of his teachings. In this sermon, he emphasized the importance of justice, equality, and the sanctity of life and property. He reminded his followers of the rights of women, the prohibition of usury, and the importance of adhering to the Quran and Sunnah.
The Farewell Sermon is often regarded as the Prophet’s (SAW) final testament to his ummah. It serves as a timeless reminder of the principles of Islam and the responsibilities of every Muslim. The sermon’s concluding words, “O people, convey my message to those who are absent,” highlight the universal and enduring nature of his message.
The Day of Departure
The Prophet’s (SAW) condition worsened rapidly in the days leading up to his passing. On the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, 632 CE, the beloved Messenger (SAW) left this world. His passing marked the end of an era, the conclusion of the final revelation, and the departure of the greatest of creation.
The moment of his death was one of profound sorrow and disbelief. His companions, who had relied on his guidance and leadership, were left in a state of shock and grief. The Prophet’s (SAW) closest companion, Abu Bakr (RA), who was away at the time, returned to find the community in mourning. He famously addressed the distraught crowd, saying, “Whoever worshipped Muhammad, let them know that Muhammad has died. But whoever worshipped Allah, let them know that Allah is Ever-Living and never dies.
Abu Bakr’s (RA) words brought a sense of clarity and purpose to the grieving community. They reminded the believers that the Prophet (SAW) was a servant and messenger of Allah, and that their faith and devotion should remain steadfast in the face of this immense loss.
The Immediate Aftermath
The death of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) left a void that could never be filled. His companions, who had been his closest allies and followers, faced the daunting task of leading the Muslim community without their beloved leader. The immediate aftermath of his passing was marked by uncertainty and a profound sense of loss.
The question of leadership was a pressing concern. The community needed a leader to guide them, both spiritually and politically. The Ansar and Muhajirun, the two main groups of early Muslims, gathered in a place called Saqifah to discuss the future leadership of the ummah. After much deliberation, Abu Bakr (RA) was chosen as the first caliph. His selection was a pivotal moment, as it marked the beginning of the Rashidun Caliphate, a period of rightly guided leadership.
Abu Bakr (RA), known for his close companionship with the Prophet (SAW) and his deep understanding of Islam, was a natural choice. His leadership helped stabilize the community and ensured that the teachings of the Prophet (SAW) continued to guide the believers. His first address as caliph was a testament to his humility and dedication: “I have been given authority over you, though I am not the best among you. If I do well, help me; and if I act wrongly, correct me.
The Grief of the Companions
The companions of the Prophet (SAW) experienced immense grief at his passing. The loss of their beloved leader and friend was a deeply personal and spiritual experience. Many found it difficult to accept the reality of his death, as he had been a constant source of guidance and comfort.
Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), a close companion of the Prophet (SAW), initially refused to believe the news of his death. He was overwhelmed with emotion and declared that anyone who claimed that the Prophet (SAW) had died would face severe consequences. It was only after Abu Bakr (RA) recited the verse from the Quran, “Muhammad is no more than a messenger; many were the messengers that passed away before him” (Quran 3:144), that Umar (RA) accepted the truth.
The emotional toll of the Prophet’s (SAW) death extended beyond the companions. The entire Muslim community felt the weight of his absence. The Prophet (SAW) had been more than a religious leader; he had been a source of love, compassion, and mercy. His teachings had shaped the lives of his followers, and his example had been a guiding light.
The Lasting Impact
The death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was a profound loss, but it also marked the beginning of a new chapter in Islamic history. The teachings and legacy of the Prophet (SAW) continued to inspire and guide the Muslim community. The Quran and Sunnah, the two primary sources of Islamic guidance, remained the foundation of the faith.

The companions, who had learned directly from the Prophet (SAW), played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting his teachings. They compiled the Quran, documented the Hadith, and established the foundational principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Their efforts ensured that the message of Islam would endure for generations to come.
The Prophet’s (SAW) legacy also had a profound impact on the world beyond the Muslim community. His teachings on justice, compassion, and equality resonated with people of all backgrounds and faiths. His emphasis on the importance of knowledge, education, and moral integrity set a standard for human conduct.
The Prophet’s (SAW) Eternal Message
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) may have departed from this world, but his message and legacy remain alive in the hearts of Muslims. His life and teachings continue to inspire believers to live with compassion, integrity, and devotion to Allah. The Prophet’s (SAW) example serves as a timeless guide, reminding us of the values of mercy, justice, and humility.
The profound loss of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was a moment of immense sorrow, but it also reaffirmed the enduring nature of the Islamic faith. The community’s response to his passing demonstrated the strength and resilience of the ummah. The selection of Abu Bakr (RA) as the first caliph ensured the continuity of leadership and the preservation of the Prophet’s (SAW) teachings.
In the centuries that followed, the Muslim community continued to grow and evolve, drawing inspiration from the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring impact of a life lived in service to Allah and humanity.
Conclusion
The departure of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was a moment of profound loss for the Muslim community. His passing marked the end of an era, but it also signaled the beginning of a new chapter in Islamic history. The Prophet’s (SAW) teachings and legacy continue to inspire and guide believers around the world. His life serves as a timeless example of compassion, integrity, and devotion to Allah. As we remember the Prophet (SAW), we are reminded of the enduring nature of his message and the profound impact he had on the world.