The concept of the finality of Prophethood holds a central position in Islamic theology and belief. It refers to the belief that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the last and final prophet sent by Allah to humanity. This doctrine is one of the fundamental tenets of Islam and is firmly established in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In Islamic tradition, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is regarded as the Seal of the Prophets, meaning that his prophethood marks the culmination and perfection of the prophetic tradition. This concept is articulated in several verses of the Quran, including Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40), where Allah says, “Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allah and the last of the prophets.”
The finality of Prophethood encompasses several important aspects within Islamic belief:
- Completion of Revelation: With the advent of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the process of divine revelation was brought to its completion. The Quran, revealed to him over a period of twenty-three years, is considered the final and unalterable message from Allah to humanity.
- Universal Guidance: The message brought by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is intended for all of humanity until the end of time. Unlike previous prophets who were sent to specific communities or nations. Moreover, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent as a mercy to all of mankind (Quran 21:107).
- Preservation of Message: The finality of Prophethood ensures the preservation and authenticity of the teachings of Islam until the Day of Judgment. Unlike previous scriptures which underwent alteration and distortion over time, the Quran has been preserved in its original form, free from any corruption or tampering.
- Spiritual Guidance: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as the ultimate exemplar of piety, righteousness, and moral conduct for Muslims. His life, actions, and sayings, recorded in the Hadith literature, provide a comprehensive guide for Muslims to navigate the challenges of life and strive for spiritual excellence.
Now, We will also add to our discussion the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) on Finality of Prophethood:
“My similarity in comparison with the other prophets before me, is that of a man who has built a house nicely and beautifully, except for a place of one brick in a corner. The people go about it and wonder at its beauty, but say: ‘Would that this brick be put in its place!’ So I am that brick, and I am the last of the prophets.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
“There is no prophet after me.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
“I am the last in the line of the prophets and you are the last community (to be raised among them).” (Sunan Abi Dawood)
“The line of the prophets has ended with me.” (Sahih Muslim)
These quotes from Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) affirm the finality of his prophethood and emphasize that no prophet will come after him. It underscore the significance of his mission and the completeness of the guidance he brought for humanity.
In conclusion, the finality of Prophethood in Islam signifies the culmination, perfection, and universality of divine guidance through Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It represents a core belief that unifies Muslims worldwide and serves as a source of spiritual guidance and inspiration for all of humanity.
