Then there are the collections of the sayings and deeds of the Holy Prophet, such as Bukhari and Muslim, from which much detail can be obtained of various facets of his life.
Any information that it provides on any such aspect must be regarded, from a purely objective, historical point of view, as the most authentic and reliable. The Holy Quran, which was recorded contemporaneously with the Holy Prophet and which is admitted by all to have survived intact since that time, refers to many events and features of the Holy Prophet's life. Hence it is vitally important for both Muslims, if they are to be true to their faith, and for non-Muslims, if they are to appreciate Islam, to have a correct and accurate account of the Holy Prophet's life before them. The Holy Prophet is recognized in Islam as the "best model" (the Quran 33:21) for a Muslim to follow and emulate, and as a "teacher of the scripture and wisdom" (62:2), and therefore details of his life both mould the moral outlook of Muslims and are used to derive laws and regulations of Islam (whether `religious' or `secular', using these terms in their modern sense). The collection and compilation of the details of the Holy Prophet's life, which took place in the early days of Islam, was done not merely for historical or sentimental interest, but also because his deeds and sayings are regarded as an indispensable part of the teachings of the faith, being a practical illustration and a commentary of the precepts given in the Holy Quran. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that more is known of the life of the Holy Prophet than of any other figure in human history, ancient or modern. This unique information covers not only the general events of Muslim history during his lifetime, but also details relating to his personal life, habits and character. (below)Īmongst all the founders of the great religions of the world, the Holy Prophet Muhammad holds the distinction of being a historical figure, about whose life a wealth of authentic information and detail is available. I published a review of this book at that time, which I have been considering reviving. The author was presented with a prize of 3000 dollars in the Pakistan embassy in London (I still have the newspaper cutting). When it first appeared in 1983 or 1984 it was awarded the first prize in the Seerat competition of the religious department of the government of Pakistan. Martin Lings' book consists of a collection of the least reliable (and in many cases false and damaging) reports and stories about the Holy Prophet's life. 'Muhammad, his life based on the earliest sources', by Martin Lings Published by George Allen & Unwin Ltd., and the Islamic Texts Society, London 1983. REVIEW OF A NEW BIOGRAPHY OF HOLY PROPHET MUHAMMAD
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