VIDEO SPEECH - AGES 6 - 10 - AISHA BHATTI - WA
VIDEO SPEECH - AGES 11 - 14 - ALEEZA BHATTI - WA
STORY WRITING - AGES 6 - 10 - NIZHA SIDDIQUI - NY
Samiha was 16 years old. She was walking down the street. It was a nice autumn breeze and she was really looking forward to tomorrow. It was her friend Lily’s birthday and Samiha was excited. Lily also invited other friends, Laura, Christin and Sophia. All of them were best friends, but the only thing that the girls didn’t like about Samiha was she wear a hijab. The next day Samiha was getting ready for Lily’s birthday party. RING!!! RING!!! Samiha’s phone rang. It was Lily. “Hey Samiha, how are you?” “Hi Lily, I’m fine.” “I just wanted to ask you why does your family force you to wear a hijab?” asked Lily. Samiha was shocked! “My family doesn’t force me Lily”, she said calmly, “I’m a muslim that’s why I wear it.” “why do you wear it?” asked Lily. “We wear it because Allah (SWT) commands us. I’ll give you a verse from Surah Nur number 31” “and do not display their beauty except what is apparent, and they should place their khumar over their bosoms”.” Do you see now why we wear hijabs Lily?” Lily was awestruck. She didn’t know what to say. She ended the call and sat down. At the party Samiha came with her hijab on. “Hi Samiha, so happy that you came!” said Lily. “Yeah, me too”, said Samiha. The five girls had a blast together! They were truly best friends. On Monday Samiha woke up early. She started getting ready for school. After about an hour, she went out to wait for the bus. When she got on, she went straight to her friends who were already there like usual. “Hi guys!” Samiha said. “Hello!” “Hi!” “Hey!” said her friends. When they got off the bus at school, they began walking towards school. BRING!!! BRING!!! “Come on girls, time to go inside!” said Lily. When they were all seated inside, Ms. Hollow, their teacher gave the instructions for class. “Class, take out your math workbook and turn to page 2666, except for Samiha. Can you please step outside. I want to talk to you” “What’s happening Samiha?” Lily asked. “I don’t know!” Samiha replied. She walked outside and waited for Ms. Hollow. “I want to talk to you, Samiha.” “Yes?” Samiha asked nervously. “Well, why you always wear a scarf?” Samiha was shocked! “Does your family force you to?” Ms. Hollow asked. Samiha was even more shocked!! “My family does not force me. I’m a muslim and so is my family. We girls wear a scarf because Allah commands us to do so, so we can be protected and be safe as Allah tells in Surah Ahzab verse 59 “O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close around them. That will be better, so that they may be recognized and not annoyed.” “Now do you see why we women wear a hijab, Ms. Hollow?” Samiha asked. Ms. Hollow nodded, speechless, and they both returned to their classroom. They finished the day and everyone went home.
STORY WRITING - AGES 11 - 14 - OMAR RAHMAN - IL
Islam
We were studying slavery in America in Mr. Step’s fourth-grade class, and the entire class was listening with rapt attention. Then one of my classmates commented, “Aren’t all slaves black?” I gasped in disbelief about that comment, and everyone in the class started looking toward the darker-skinned kids, which made everyone uncomfortable. My teacher, Mr. Step jumped in to break the awkward situation and said “All people are equal and we should not judge people by the way they look.” He further added that all religions and cultures talk about equality and offered an opportunity to the class to discuss racism and equality in their respective religions. At that moment I shouted out, “That is what Islam also teaches about!”Apparently he was pleased with my eagerness and said, “Omar, why don’t you come here and tell us about your religion and share the views of your religion about equality” I got up and shared with the class whatever I had learned from my parents’ teachings and from Sunday school with a passion.
Trying to recollect the relevant information in mind I started saying that Islam is a religion where we pray to the one god Allah (SWT) and Prophet Muhammed was the messenger of Allah. Islam originated from Mecca and Medina. Allah sent several prophets to spread the message of Islam such as Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS), Isa -Jesus(AS), and Prophet Muhammed (SAW). Jesus is an important prophet of Islam and the leader of these prophets was named Prophet Muhammed and he was the last prophet. The Quran is the final book of Allah and it is the book of rules and teaches us how to be good Muslims and good human beings. Islam teaches about caring and respecting others, being good neighbors, giving charity for the poor and orphans, caring for the sick and elderly and caring for the environment
At that point, Mr. Step interrupted and asked “ Can you tell more about racism and equality in Islam.” In response, I added that one of the beloved companions of the prophet was Bilal (RA), who was was a black slave and gained freedom from another beloved companion Abu- Bakr (RA) as all people were supposed to be treated equally and racism is against Islam. Bilal (RA) was a leader for the Muslims and the first to recite the call to prayer (Azan). He is a beloved hero of Muslims and respected by people of other faiths too. Regarding equality, Prophet Muhammed in his last sermon declared that “No one is better than another, black or white, Arab or non-Arab, except by the virtue of deeds.”
As I finished my story, Mr. Step and the rest of the class applauded saying that it was a great presentation and that message of Islam was truly inspiring. I was glad that I got to present my wonderful religion to my class and I think they really liked it!
ESSAY WRITING - AGES 6 - 10 - AABID MAISOON ADEEP MOHAIDEEN - NH
Muhammad (saw)
Who was Muhammad (saw)?
Muhammad [saw] was the last prophet and a founder of Islam. Most of his early life was spent as a merchant. At age 40, he began to have revelations from Allah that became the basis for the Quran and the foundation of Islam. By 630 he had unified most of Arabia under a single religion. Muslims in the world who believe “There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet.”
Life of Muhammad (saw)
Muhammad [saw] was born on April 22, 570 ADS in Mecca to Abdullah and Aminah. He belonged to a poor but respectable family of the Quraysh tribe. His father died before he was born, and he was raised first by his grandfather and then his uncle. Muhammed died at the age 62 on June 8, Medina, Saudi Arabia.
He was the best in character and He also said about in one of His hadiths in the following way
❝God has sent me to perfect good manners and to do good deeds. ❞
Prophet Muhammad (saw) as selfless as a person could be in life. He lived every day of His life for the sake of Allah and everything which He did was for the Almighty.
The extent of His selflessness can be seen from the example of His preaching in the valley of Taif, where people lead naughty children to throw stones at Him while He was preaching.
He had to run for His life, and He was all covered in blood. But still He did not complain to Allah about Him, rather one of His companions narrates
❝The Prophet resembled a Prophet who was harmed by His people. He wiped the blood from His face and said: ‘O God! Forgive my people, for they know not! ❞
ESSAY WRITING - AGES 11 - 14 - IBRAHIM SYED AHMED - IL
By: Ibrahim Ahmed
Allah has blessed me by making me a Muslim and having me go to an Islamic school. Sometimes non-muslim students from public school visit our school
If my teacher picked me and said ‘Ibrahim, you are a good speaker, why don’t you tell our guests about Islam?
I will get up and say loudly ‘OMG HI - I will surely grab their attention and then I will start:
‘O’ stands for one God. In Islam, we believe that God is only one and His name in Arabic is Allah. God is the Most Merciful, All-Knowing, a Loving and a Guiding God. He is the most powerful being because anything he wants can happen if he says ‘BE’.
God appoints Messengers and Prophets. So, ‘M’ of the OMG stands for Messengers. Some Messengers include Prophet Ibrahim, Dawud, Musa, Isa, And the last one, Prophet Muhammed peace be upon them all. All of them came to invite their people to the worship of God.
Just like we have notes for our tests to help us to get a good grade, God gave us His notes. ‘G’ of OMGHI, stands for Guidance. The Quran is the final guidance for humanity. It contains answers to all of the world’s problems.
Just like our teacher will give us a grade at the end of the year based on our work, God will give us a grade on the day of Judgement.
It says in the Quran that ‘Those who have the right belief in God and do good deeds, God will give them Paradise.’ (Quran 2:25) and hellfire is for not obeying God. So, we believe in the ‘H’ - which is ‘Hereafter’.
And if you agree with all of the above, I ‘invite’ you to ask questions and pick up a good book about Islam from the library.
And by knowing each other's religions, we can learn to live happily with each other.
And that is how I would share Islam with non-Muslim students.
May Allah keep us guided and guide the world to Islam...aameen.
Honorable Mention - Huzaifa Syed
Honorable Mention - Waleed Bawani
Honorable Mention - Hasan Siddiqi
Honorable Mention - Abdulbaki Ahmed
Honorable Mention - Mohammed Maaz
Honorable Mention - Yusuf Umar
Responding to the essay in story format: If asked by your friend, “Tell me more about Prophet Muhammad, Peace be Upon him,” what great things will you share? ____________________________________________________________________________ ________ My friend and I were sitting at the park exchanging Pokémon cards. In the past he had asked me questions about being a Muslim. When he asked me about Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) I was excited to tell him about the prophet.
I shall tell you a story about a profound man to ever walked this earth. Many people have said bad things, but they forget that he was a man of great strength, character, wisdom, and piety. We should all strive to be like him to earn the pleasure of Allah, let me tell you why.
When he was 6 years old, he was sadly orphaned. He lived with his uncle Abu Taleb who loved and protected him. When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was 12 years old, he traveled to Mecca where he met a monk named Bahera. Bahera said to protect this boy because he seen something special about him. Mecca became the place where millions of Muslims go to perform a sacred pilgrimage, one of the pillars, which is called Hajj.
When he was 25 years old, he started to preach about Islam but something miraculous happened for him to be the one. One night when the prophet was in the cave, an angel appeared and begin to squeeze him and commanded him to read. The prophet did not know how to read and kept telling the angel that he could not read. This marked the beginning of his prophethood. Afterwards, he ran home to his wife Khadijah where she comforted him. Khadijah was a businesswoman that liked Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) character very much. She believed in his message along with 30 other loyal followers as Islam started to unfold. Unfortunately, not all the people liked Islam and wanted to harm the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The followers had to be careful in their worship or they would be beat and tortured. This teaches us that it is okay to disagree with people, stand up for what you believe in, but it is not okay to hurt people.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) would frequently go up to the cave in the mountains. One night, a group of men were looking to harm him and came across his cave. However, a spider had made its web across the entrance to make it appear as though no one had entered for a long time. He was saved by the mercy of Allah!
Today, we follow his sunnah by practicing fasting, praying, and learning to copy the traditions and mannerisms of the prophet. People knew him as being fair, righteous, patient, honest, devoted, humble, respectful, generous, and led people with pure intentions for the pleasure of Allah (our Creator). He cared deeply about his ummah (community). We should remember Allah’s blessings and mercy by making dua and praising the only god, Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was the last messenger and my intention is to follow him instead of following famous people as role models.
Honorable Mention - Mustafa Ahmed
Once upon a time, there lived an 8-year-old girl named Sarah. Sarah was a very good Muslim who prayed each of her 5 prayers. She made dua to Allah every day and was kind to everybody she met. She had a friend from school named Mary. Mary was non-Muslim. On the Friday before the last day of school, Sarah and Mary were at recess, sitting on a bench. "Sorry I can't come to your house tomorrow," says Sarah.
They had planned to have a sleepover that next day. However, at sunset after Maghrib yesterday, Sarah's parents announced that on Sunday, they would be traveling to Makkah to see the Kaabah for a week. One of the Five Pillars of Islam requires every Muslim who can do so to perform the Hajj at least once in their lifetime. Sarah was delighted when she discovered this news, but then remembered that she was supposed to have a sleepover with Mary that same day they were leaving.
Still sitting on the bench, Mary asks, "I know that you have to go, but I want you to stay. And why do you believe in Islam? Why is it important?" Sarah was astounded after hearing this, but she comprehended that Mary was non-Muslim, and took this as a chance to spread the word of Islam. "Muslims believe that all the world should have harmony. We believe in our holy book the Quran, and that there is only one lord, Allah SWT. We also believe that the last prophet, or messenger, is Prophet Muhammad SAW," replies Sarah.
"Why do you believe in Islam over all other religions?" asks Mary. "Islam believes that our lord, Allah SWT is the source of peace. The Quran provides a pure and clear vision of Allah SWT. The Quran shows the reasons why Islam should be followed and shows Allah SWT's mercy and forgiveness." replies Sarah. "Why do you have to go to leave?" asks Mary. " I am going to the holy city of Makkah to see the Kaaba. A Muslim must visit the Kabba at least once during their lifetime if possible. My family has finally saved enough money to go to Makkah," replies Sarah. "Sarah, I have one more question. What are your lord's requirements? What does he reward Muslims with?" asks Mary. "Allah SWT's expectations for us are to pray salah five times a day, which are at different times and are each performed daily. He also expects us to make dua, to be kind to others, go to mosques, read the Quran, and try to spread the word of Allah SWT," replies Sarah. "I did not realize how great Islam was. I guess I now realize how important it is for you to go to Makkah," says Mary.
Later, Mary finds more about Islam and its teachings. She then realizes Islam is the true religion. Mary later becomes a peaceful Muslim. Sarah was glad to have been open and honest about her religion with her friend.
Honorable Mention - Inayah Mohammed
Jannah’s Mysterious Question
Jannah sat on her table reading Surah Yaseen, when a thought came to her mind. How did she know if these verses of Surah Yaseen, or the entire Quran had been the same verses as Allah (SWT) revealed them? I mean how could she be sure that one person in this universe had been evil enough to change the verses or the Quran. She decided to call her BFF, Noor.
“Salam Noor. Can I come over to your house at 4:30 pm?”asked Jannah.
“Salam Jannah. Sure you can come over to my house at 4:30 pm. I’ll tell my mom you're coming over.”
“Thanks Noor! I also have a question to ask you when I come to your house.”
“Ok Jannah! See you later. Assalamualaikum.”
“Assalamualaikum Noor!”
Jannah hung up on the phone and went back to reading Surah Yaseen. When she finished, it was 4:15 pm. She had to go to Noor’s house at 4:30, so in 15 minutes. She went up to her bedroom to get ready to go to Noor’s. She took a shower, put on new clothes, and got her bike out of the garage. It felt good to feel the fresh air on her face. Now she needed to remember to talk to Noor about how they knew that the verses of the Quran hadn’t been changed.
***
Jannah walked up Noor’s steps to her front door as she thought about the question she was going to ask Noor. Surely it is a dumb question as no one in the entire had ever thought of it before Jannah pondered. Noor approached the door and opened it. “Salam Jannah! I haven’t seen you in a while!” Noor said with excitement. “Ya, me too.” Jannah said with no hint of excitement in her voice. She was in a different world, a different universe. “Noor, can we go to your room?” said Jannah. “Sure, why?” Noor asked. “I’ll tell you when we get there.”
When they arrived at Noor’s room upstairs, Jannah sat down on Noor’s bed. “So what’s up, why’d you wanna come up to my room?” “I have a question for you, like I said on the phone.” Jannah replied. “Yea. So what’s the question?” Noor said nervously. Jannah took a deep breath. “How do we know that the verses of the Quran right now are the original words of Allah (SWT)?” Noor asked. “That’s an easy question to answer. If you were to change the verses of the Quran lets say, you would get a punishment no one in this world had heard of. You will be thrown in Hell Fire, and no one can save you from that on the day of judgement. Only you could have, by respecting Allah (SWT) words,” Noor explained to Jannah, “and you shall not be that person.”
The End
Honorable Mention - Ayesha Thasneem Nagoor Hanifa
That day was a normal day, however, an adventure was awaiting me. I woke up in the morning, prayed Fajr, and did my usual routine. I quickly brushed my hair, slipped on my clothes and headscarf, and climbed down the stairs.
“Assalmualaikum Mumma!” I said cheerfully to my mother. She was the one that always cheered me up, even when I was feeling extremely grouchy in the morning. I decided to return the feeling to her at least today Insha Allah. I wanted to grow up to be like her; compassionate.
“Walaikumassalam Fatinah dear! I sure do wish you woke up well!”
“Yes Mumma, Insha Allah today I can learn new things at school!”
I hurried and finished my breakfast as my little sister walked out of her bedroom.
“Asamkullah…” she murmured.
My little sister, Yusra, still couldn’t talk properly. I started to respond but my father interrupted me.
“Fatinah, you’re getting late!” Father called.
“Okay, I’m coming!”
I took my bag and started walking toward the bus stop where I found my best friend, Disha.
“17
I was shocked at this sudden question. Luckily, I had some answers up my sleeve.
“This is a long list you know? It could take a really long time…”
“I’m ready,” Disha said. “It’s not like the bus is coming anytime soon…”
I giggled at her facial expression and started down the road of answers.
“Did you know that Muhammad (pbuh) was known as the truthful even before he became a prophet?”
“Really, I’ve always thought everything happened after he became one!”
“The prophet was known as the truthful before because he was the one everyone would give their belongings to. They did this because they knew that he would keep the object safe and return it to the people properly. He gained trust also by giving his money to the poor even when he did not have much.”
“Wow, I really didn't know that!”
“I know, it’s really inspiring to hear about him! However, I still have a few more things to tell you!”
“The prophet was unlettered; meaning that he could not read or write. Even still, he was the one who delivered the Quran’s message to the people and read it to them.”
“Wow!”
“ I know! One more thing, Prophet Muhammad would do his own chores. Back then, many men would just make the slaves to do the chores. However, he would do his own chores.”
“Tell me more!” Disha exclaimed.
“O-, the bus is here! That’s a story for another day!”
“Ok, let’s go!”
Honorable Mention - Younes Benslimane
Honorable Mention - Ammaiza Omair
Explaining Islam: the concept of Imaan
The word Islam does not translate to peace like often thought of. It means submission to God. To grasp Islam, we would look at the real teachings from the Quran and the example our prophet Muhammed (s.a.w) sets. The fundamental concepts would be to believe in one Allah, His messengers and last messenger, Muhammad (s.a.w). Moreover, belief in His angels, the last day and the afterlife. And belief in His books and our last unchanged book the Quran of Muhammad (s.a.w). A better word Muslims would proudly use is Imaan. A person’s Imaan is stronger than just belief; it is blindly knowing that you trust that truth without needing proof.
Yes, Jesus exists in our religion. He is no way related to God or a God himself. It may not be the same concept, but the Bible is discussed in our book too. The Bible or as Injeel is a book that Allah sent through prophet Isa (a.s). The difference between the original Bible and the Quran is not huge. We think of Quran as a final version. How we know whether Quran has changed or not is back to the Imaan concept. Allah promised His people to protect His word. Sure, you could publish a book and call it Islam, but thousands of people have understood and memorized the real deal.
And never would Islam ever disrespect any religion, race or gender. Our prophet (s.a.w) said (2) that no race is superior. Keep in mind the prophet lived a long time ago. Before even all Westerners excepted the concept of equality properly. Women are not suppressed in any way by the religion. The Quran (1) taught no matter which gender does genuine deeds they both get the same reward.
In the end Islam is nothing about suppression or terrorism but peace. Allah gives as ample rewards and paradise if we follow simple rules like fasting in Ramadan, Imaan, praying five times a day, eating and earning halal, going to the Kaaba if we afford it, cleanliness and kindness to Allah’s other creations. Because in the end Allah is forgiving and all-knowing and our Imaan is between him and us.
References:
(1): Quran (4:21)
(2): Hadith of prophet: At-Tirmidhi
Honorable Mention - Madiha Qulagi
Hijab
Most non-muslims think the reason women wear hijab is just because it is required in Islam. They think they are oppressed, forced, or it's a fashion statement, we cover it for cosmetic reasons. All of that is false. Hijab is required in Islam but, it does not exactly define you as a Muslim. A hijab does not represent how religious you are, but its a reminder that even when your imaan is low, you still belong to Islam. A muslim is a servant of Allah (S.W.A) who dedicates thier time to Allah (S.W.A) and follows the foot steps of Prophet Muhammad PBUH.
The reason why women wear hijab is because our beauty is so valuable and precious that it must be covered and protected. Muslim girls dressed modestly are like pearls in its shell. The girls are the treasured pearls and the hijab is the shell, protecting its beauty. Modesty (hijab) is the crown of a muslim women. The hijab forces a male to look at a woman with respect rather than as an object. No woman in this entire universe is prettier than a female muslim who dresses not to please others, but to please Allah. The beauty is on her Imaan instead of her body.
There are many misconceptions about hijab. One of them is people's perspective on hijab. Most if not all just think of it as a religious clothing when in reality it's so much more than just a religious piece, but more like a protector or shield for a woman's beauty that of which I have already covered. But there are so many misunderstandings about the hijab, such as these questions that I as a hijabi have received.
“I bet you let your hair get greasy because no one has to see it?” False. Because hygiene is such an important factor of being a muslim, we still wash our hair and keep ourselves clean at all times. “Are you bald or have cancer?¨ Most if not all of us dont cover our hair becasue we are bald or for cosmetic reasons. “Do you have to cover your hair at home?” No. Your hair can be present to your father, father in-law, brother and your husband. We are allowed to take it off at home unless there is a non-muharam present. “Why are you wearing a towel?” 101% of hijabs are not even close to being towels and I find it very disrespectful to even call them towels.
And finally my favorite topic, oppressed Muslims girls. Some think that women are oppressed and they are forced to wear hijab and that they can't go outside, receive an education and do what they want to. This is extremely false. We should start wearing hijab at a younger age. We can play sports, become president, receive an education and accomplish all of our goals as we wish. Fatima Dahman, Ilhan Omar, Ibthaj Muhammed are just a few great examples of female muslim role models who prove that Islam does not prohibit women from reaching their goals and you can become whatever you would like to be. Infact, in Islam it is required to receive an education.
From my personal perspective, my parents supported me in every decision I made and are happy with whatever I want to become when I grow up. My parents are my biggest fans. They were especially supportive when it came to wearing hijab. Their exact words were, “wear the hijab proudly when you are ready and comfortable.”
There are many more misconceptions and misunderstandings which I have only covered some of the common ones I’ve been asked. Every time you wear the hijab, remember that you are not only pleasing Allah (S.W.A) but you are wearing an ayah of the quran. Beauty is complete when hearts are pure.
Honorable Mention - Sithi Faritha Naina Maraikar
In the Name of Allah, The Most Merciful and the Most Gracious
The Hijab
Muslim women around the world wear the headscarf or hijab. There are several reasons why women choose to wear the hijab. One reason is to fulfill a religious obligation. Allah says in the Qur'an: "O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes are the one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allah is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Surah al-Ahzab, 33: 59). The hijab isn’t oppressive or demeaning for Muslim women but rather an honor and a constant reminder of who we are.
I belong to the Islamic faith and proudly wear the headscarf. Although it is an obligation, many of us start when we feel we’re ready and end up gaining a better understanding and appreciation of the blessings that the headscarf offers. There are, however, women who are forced into it and may not be able to appreciate or understand why they wear it. Living in such a liberated society as America, women not only can come to a better understanding but have the chance to eliminate any misunderstandings
One misunderstanding people have about the headscarf is that it is oppressive. People think it’s absurd for women to cover themselves, and feel they do it against their will. What some fail to realize is that a lot of women, especially in America, wear it by choice. It is not oppression but rather a shield. Women who cover themselves receive respect and admiration from males and females alike. It is a special honor.
Another common misconception about the hijab is that it’s only for women. Allah says in the Qur'an, "Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty... And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty..." (Surah an-Nur, 24:30-31). These 2 ayahs refer to both genders. Hijab is an Arabic word meaning barrier or partition. In Islam, it has a broader meaning. It is the principle of modesty and includes behavior as well as dress for both males and females. However, the most visible form of hijab is the head covering that many Muslim women wear.
In conclusion, the headscarf is very important to Muslim women, it guards her modesty and helps her gain the respect and admiration of people around her.
Honorable Mention - Akbar Shah Naina Maraikar
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Great things I would share about Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him’, Allah sent Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as Rahmatul Lil Alameen means mercy to mankind and all others. He was nicknamed Al-Ameen “The Truthful One” and As-Saddiq ¨Honest”. He led by example and established Best Standards in all aspects of life.
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Indeed among the believers with the most complete faith is the one who is the best in conduct and the most kind to his family” (Tirmidhi). The Prophet (PBUH) was always kind to children. He was a very loving father and grandfather. He showed affection to children in the community and did not hesitate to make them feel special and loved. The Prophet (PBUH) taught us to be kind to orphans and look after them, he said, a person who looks after an orphan will be in paradise. The Prophet (PBUH) taught us to well behave with our neighbors and help the needy.
The Prophet (PBUH) established Rights for Women. He allowed women to inherit, taught that they were equal to men in the sight of God, prohibited adultery and sexual abuse of women, elevated the status of mothers as being greater to that of the father and much more. In his farewell sermon he said: “I order you to be good to women.” (Tirmidhi). He also said “The best of you is the best to his wives.” (Tirmidhi).
The Prophet (PBUH) Forgave His Enemies. As the message of Islam grew, the Prophet (PBUH), and the large number of Muslims would return to Mecca. The Meccans were the ones who tortured and killed many of the Muslims. The Prophet (PBUH) and the Muslims had the upper hand and one might imagine this to be a moment where they rightfully seek revenge. However, the Prophet (PBUH) entered Mecca with his head lowered in humbleness and forgave all of his enemies. He said to them: “Today I say to you as Joseph said to his brothers: ‘This day there is no blame on you.’ Go your way for you are free.” (Muslim)
I am very happy to share the greatness and noble characters of our Prophet (PBUH). Jazakallah Khair.