Love for the Prophet ﷺ (Importance – Etiquette – Requirements)
These days, many of us claim that we are the truest lovers of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), to the extent that no one in the world can match our devotion. However, the bitter reality is that 80% of our lives are often devoid of following the teachings and commands of the Prophet (ﷺ). This is a strange kind of love. We claim to love the Prophet, but we cannot manage to pray five times a day. Our sorrowful moments are spent chasing our worldly desires. Our social life is far removed from the teachings of the Prophet, our business dealings contradict his commandments, and in matters of the rights of parents, siblings, and relatives, we go against the teachings of the Prophet. Our practical life shows no reflection of the Prophet’s character. Thus, claiming love and being a true lover are two entirely different things. In reality, we are only claimants of love, not true lovers.
The Importance of Love for the Prophet ﷺ
A Muslim cannot be a complete believer until their love for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is perfect. In every matter of life, they should first look to the Prophet’s example, sincerely try to follow it, and strive to live their life according to his commands. Every aspect of life, from personal dealings to societal relationships, should be in accordance with his teachings.
The Quran states:
وَمَا كَانَ لِمُؤْمِنٍۢ وَلَا مُؤْمِنَةٍ إِذَا قَضَى ٱللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُۥٓ أَمْرًا أَن يَكُونَ لَهُمُ ٱلْخِيَرَةُ مِنْ أَمْرِهِمْ ۗ وَمَن يَعْصِ ٱللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُۥ فَقَدْ ضَلَّ ضَلَـٰلًۭا مُّبِينًۭا (Surah Al-Ahzab: 36)
“It is not for a believing man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, to have any choice about their affair. Whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has gone far astray.”
In Surah Al-Hashr, verse 7, Allah further commands:
وَمَآ ءَاتَىٰكُمُ ٱلرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَىٰكُمْ عَنْهُ فَٱنتَهُوا۟ ۚ وَٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ ۖ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ شَدِيدُ ٱلْعِقَابِ (Surah Al-Hashr: 7)
“And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatever he forbids you, abstain from it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in punishment.”
The Prophet (ﷺ) also said: “None of you truly believes until his desires are in accordance with what I have brought.”
The Etiquettes of Love for the Prophet ﷺ
Love for the Prophet (ﷺ) is an eternal emotion rooted deeply in the heart of a believer. This love, based on respect, devotion, and admiration for the Prophet, has certain etiquettes that a Muslim must observe to ensure that their love is aligned with Islamic teachings and earns Allah’s pleasure.
Obedience to the Prophet ﷺ
The first and foremost etiquette of love for the Prophet is to follow his commands. Allah says in the Quran:
“قل إن كنتم تحبون الله فاتبعوني يحببكم الله ويغفر لكم ذنوبكم” (Surah Aal-E-Imran: 31)
“Say, [O Muhammad], ‘If you love Allah, then follow me, and Allah will love you and forgive your sins.’
Following the Sunnah
The life of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is a complete example for Muslims. Following his Sunnah and implementing it in our lives is an essential aspect of love for the Prophet. This includes his practices related to worship, social dealings, and moral conduct.
Sending Blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ
Sending abundant salutations (durood) upon the Prophet is also part of the etiquettes of love. Allah says in the Quran:
“إن الله وملائكته يصلون على النبي يا أيها الذين آمنوا صلوا عليه وسلموا تسليما” (Surah Al-Ahzab: 56)
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [ Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [ Allah to grant him] peace.”
Defending the Honor of the Prophet ﷺ
Love for the Prophet requires that Muslims defend his honor in all circumstances. If his personality or teachings are attacked, it is the duty of Muslims to respond appropriately, within the bounds of justice and truth.
Avoiding Disrespect of the Prophet ﷺ
It is an unforgivable offense to mock or disrespect the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) or his teachings. A Muslim must avoid such actions and also prevent others from engaging in them.
Moderation in Love
It is essential to maintain moderation in expressing love for the Prophet (ﷺ). Taking this love to extremes or becoming overly emotional and engaging in inappropriate actions is not correct. Islam teaches balance in all aspects, including love for the Prophet.
Studying the Life of the Prophet ﷺ
Studying the life of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and reflecting upon it is a key sign of love for him. By learning about his life, we increase our love for him and strive to incorporate his principles into our own lives.
Respect for the Prophet’s Family and Companions
Respecting the family (Ahl al-Bayt) and companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) is also part of the etiquettes of love. These individuals demonstrated their loyalty and love for the Prophet (ﷺ) and played a crucial role in spreading the message of Islam.
