Love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a cornerstone of faith in Islam. The Prophet himself said, “None of you will have faith until he loves me more than his father, his children, and all of mankind” (Sahih Bukhari). This love, however, must be balanced, avoiding both extremism and laxity, to maintain its proper place in the hearts of believers.
The love for the Prophet (PBUH) goes beyond mere affection; it is an obligation. Allah says in the Qur'an:
قُلۡ إِن كُنتُمۡ تُحِبُّونَ ٱللَّهَ فَٱتَّبِعُونِى يُحۡبِبۡكُمُ ٱللَّهُ وَيَغۡفِرۡ لَكُمۡ ذُنُوبَكُمۡۗ وَٱللَّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ
“Say, [O Muhammad], ‘If you should love Allah, then follow me, so Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.’” (Surah Aal-Imran, 3:31)
This verse emphasizes that true love for Allah is demonstrated through following the Prophet’s example. Loving the Prophet means respecting his teachings, adhering to his Sunnah, and modeling our behavior after his guidance.
Avoiding Extremism in Love for the Prophet (PBUH)
While expressing love for the Prophet (PBUH) is essential, it is important to avoid falling into extremism, which could lead to actions that are not part of Islamic teachings. The Prophet himself warned against exaggeration:
لا تطروني كما أطرت النصارى ابن مريم، فإنما أنا عبده، فقولوا عبد الله ورسوله."
“Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only His servant, so say ‘the servant of Allah and His Messenger.’” (Sahih Bukhari)
This hadith serves as a reminder to maintain respect and devotion without crossing the bounds set by Islam. Extremism in love for the Prophet (PBUH) can manifest in practices such as attributing divine qualities to him, something that goes against the very essence of Islamic monotheism (Tawheed).
Examples of extremism might include:
Elevating the Prophet (PBUH) to a status equal to Allah, which contradicts the core principle of Tawheed.Innovating acts of worship or rituals that the Prophet did not practice or endorse, such as excessive celebrations or creating new forms of prayer in his name.
While it is encouraged to honor and remember the Prophet (PBUH), we must ensure that our actions align with the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah, without introducing any innovations (bid’ah) into the faith.
Avoiding Laxity in Love for the Prophet (PBUH)
On the other hand, laxity in love for the Prophet (PBUH) is equally dangerous. Some individuals might claim that loving the Prophet (PBUH) is not essential or neglect his teachings in their daily lives. This attitude undermines the very foundation of faith, as adhering to the Prophet's example is crucial to earning Allah’s love and mercy.
Laxity can be observed when:
People disregard the Sunnah, seeing it as optional or outdated, rather than a critical aspect of their faith.They fail to teach or instill love for the Prophet (PBUH) in their children or communities, leading to a disconnection from his teachings.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has set an ideal example for Muslims to follow, and neglecting this guidance leads to a weakened connection to Islam. Allah has sent him as a mercy to mankind, and following his example brings success in both this life and the Hereafter. The Qur’an commands:
لَّقَدۡ كَانَ لَكُمۡ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلۡيَوۡمَ ٱلۡأٓخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًا
“There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allah often.” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:21)
Striking the Balance: The Middle Path
Islam teaches balance and moderation in all aspects of life, including our love for the Prophet (PBUH). The key to finding this balance lies in understanding that true love for the Prophet (PBUH) is demonstrated by following his teachings, honoring his memory, and acting upon his Sunnah without exaggeration or neglect. Here are a few ways to maintain this balance:
Follow the Sunnah: The best way to express our love for the Prophet (PBUH) is by emulating his behavior and teachings. Whether it’s through acts of worship, moral conduct, or interpersonal dealings, following his example brings us closer to Allah.
Respect His Status: The Prophet (PBUH) is the best of creation, but he is still a servant of Allah. We honor him by respecting his position as the final Messenger and refraining from elevating him beyond the status Allah has given him.
Reject Innovations: Avoid introducing practices that the Prophet (PBUH) did not endorse. Any innovation in matters of religion is considered misguidance, as highlighted by the Prophet (PBUH) himself:
"إن شر الأمور محدثاتها، وكل محدثة بدعة، وكل بدعة ضلالة."
“The worst of matters are those that are newly invented [in religion], for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is a misguidance.” (Sahih Muslim)
Teach and Spread Love for the Prophet: Encourage your family and community to connect with the life and teachings of the Prophet (PBUH). Share stories from his Seerah (life) and encourage people to study the hadiths to deepen their connection to him.
Pray for the Prophet: A beautiful way to express love for the Prophet (PBUH) is through sending salawat (blessings). The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"من صلى عليَّ صلاةً واحدةً، صلى الله عليه بها عشرًا."
“Whoever sends one salat upon me, Allah will send ten salat upon him.” (Sahih Muslim)
In conclusion, balancing love for the Prophet (PBUH) is essential in living a truly Islamic life. Avoiding both extremes exaggeration and neglect ensures that our love is sincere and in accordance with the Qur’an and Sunnah. By following the Prophet’s example, we align ourselves with the path of righteousness and earn Allah’s pleasure.
May Allah grant us the ability to love the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the way that pleases Him, and may He guide us to the straight path. Ameen.