History of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W); his farewell message Basic 6 Islamic Studies Lesson Note

Learning Objectives: By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Illustrate how the Prophet returned to Makkah
• List lessons from his farewell message
• Relate derivable lessons from his farewell message

Lesson Content:

PROPHET’S RETURN TO MAKKAH (CONQUEST OF MAKKAH)

Background: After years of persecution and exile, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) returned to Makkah in 630 CE (8 AH) as a conqueror, not as a refugee.

How the Prophet Returned:

1. Treaty of Hudaybiyyah (628 CE)

• Peace treaty between Muslims and Makkans
• Allowed Muslims to visit Makkah for pilgrimage
• Created period of calm and growth for Islam

2. Breaking of the Treaty

• Some Makkan allies attacked Muslim allies
• Treaty was broken by the Makkans
• Gave Muslims legitimate reason to march on Makkah

3. Preparation for Conquest

• Prophet gathered 10,000 Muslim soldiers
• Maintained secrecy about destination
• Emphasized peaceful intentions

4. The March to Makkah

• Large Muslim army approached Makkah
• No resistance from most Makkans
• City surrendered without major fighting

5. Peaceful Entry

• Prophet entered Makkah humbly
• No revenge against former enemies
• Granted general amnesty to all

6. Cleansing the Kaaba

• Removed 360 idols from around Kaaba
• Restored Kaaba to worship of one Allah
• Declared Makkah as sacred sanctuary

THE FAREWELL PILGRIMAGE (HAJJATUL-WADA)

When and Where:

• Took place in 632 CE (10 AH)
• During the month of Dhul-Hijjah
• Prophet’s only Hajj after Conquest of Makkah
• Last major public address by the Prophet

Significance:

• Final guidance to the Muslim community
• Completion of Islamic teachings
• Blueprint for human rights and equality
• Prophet’s final public sermon

KEY MESSAGES FROM THE FAREWELL SERMON:

1. Sanctity of Life and Property “Your lives, your property, and your honor are as sacred as this day (Day of Arafat), in this month (Dhul-Hijjah), in this city (Makkah).”

Lessons:

• Every human life is precious and sacred
• Property rights must be respected
• Honor and dignity of people must be protected
• No one has right to harm others

2. Racial Equality “An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white – except by piety and good action.”

Lessons:

• All humans are equal regardless of race or color
• Only good deeds and God-consciousness matter
• Racism and discrimination are forbidden
• Unity based on faith, not ethnicity

3. Rights of Women “Fear Allah concerning women! Verily you have taken them on the security of Allah and made their persons lawful unto you by words of Allah!”

Lessons:

• Women have rights that must be respected
• Marriage is a sacred contract
• Husbands must treat wives with kindness
• Women’s dignity must be protected

4. Economic Justice “Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.”

Lessons:

• Avoid usury (interest) and unfair trade
• Economic exploitation is forbidden
• Be just in all business dealings
• Small sins can lead to bigger problems

5. Unity of Muslim Community “All Muslims are brothers unto one another. You are not allowed to take your brother’s belongings unless he gives it to you willingly.”

Lessons:

• Muslims form one brotherhood
• Mutual respect and care is essential
• Taking others’ property without permission is theft
• Community solidarity is important

6. Following Quran and Sunnah “I have left among you something which if you will hold fast to it you will never fall into error – a plain indication, the Book of Allah and the practice of His Prophet, so give good heed to what I say.”

Lessons:

• Quran and Sunnah are guidance for all time
• Following both prevents going astray
• Prophet’s example must be followed
• These sources provide complete guidance

DERIVABLE LESSONS FOR TODAY:

1. Human Rights and Dignity

• All people deserve respect and fair treatment
• No discrimination based on race, color, or tribe
• Life, property, and honor are sacred rights
• Justice must be upheld for everyone

2. Gender Equality and Respect

• Women have rights that must be honored
• Treat all women (mothers, wives, daughters) with respect
• Marriage requires mutual respect and kindness
• Both men and women are equal in Allah’s sight

3. Economic Ethics

• Be honest in all business dealings
• Don’t cheat or exploit others
• Avoid interest-based transactions
• Share wealth with those in need

4. Community Unity

• Work together as one community
• Help each other in times of need
• Respect others’ belongings and rights
• Resolve conflicts peacefully

5. Spiritual Guidance

• Follow Quran and Prophet’s teachings
• Stay away from sin, both big and small
• Remember Allah in all activities
• Prepare for the Day of Judgment

6. Leadership Qualities

• Lead by example, not just words
• Show mercy even to former enemies
• Be humble even in victory
• Care for the welfare of all people

THE PROPHET’S FINAL QUESTION:

At the end of his sermon, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) asked the huge gathering: “Have I conveyed the message?” The crowd responded: “Yes!” He said: “O Allah! Bear witness!”

Significance:

• Prophet completed his mission
• All guidance had been delivered
• Responsibility now on the community
• Final testimony before Allah

HOMEWORK:

1. Describe how Prophet Muhammad (SAW) returned to Makkah
2. List 5 key messages from the Farewell Sermon
3. Explain 3 lessons we can learn from the Farewell Message today