After the Farewell Pilgrimage, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) returned to Madinah, where he resumed his role as the leader of the Muslim Ummah. The community was thriving, but subtle signs began to emerge that the Prophet’s earthly mission was drawing to a close. His words and actions during these final days were imbued with wisdom, love, and urgency, ensuring his followers would remain guided after his departure.
One of the clearest indications came during the Farewell Pilgrimage itself. As the Prophet (PBUH) stood on the plains of Arafah, he delivered a profound sermon that encapsulated the essence of Islam, reminding the gathered believers of their responsibilities and the sanctity of human life. Shortly thereafter, a monumental verse was revealed:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” (Surah Al-Ma'idah: 3)
This declaration signified the completion of the divine message. Though joyous, it also hinted that the Prophet’s mission was nearing its end.
Upon his return to Madinah, another revelation came:
“When the victory of Allah has come and the conquest, and you see the people entering into the religion of Allah in multitudes, then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever Accepting of repentance.” (Surah An-Nasr: 1–3)
This verse, often called the “Farewell Revelation,” was a solemn reminder that the Prophet’s (PBUH) role as the conveyor of Allah’s message was now complete. The companions, particularly Abu Bakr (RA), understood its weight, realizing it foreshadowed the Prophet’s departure.
In Safar of the 11th year of Hijrah, the Prophet (PBUH) began experiencing the effects of a severe illness. Despite his physical weakness, he continued to fulfill his responsibilities, offering guidance and addressing his followers. On one occasion, he visited the graves of the martyrs of Uhud, , he prayed for them and said:
"I long to meet my brothers."
When asked who he meant, as his companions were present, he replied:
"My brothers are those who have not yet come. They will believe in me without having seen me."
As his illness worsened, the Prophet (PBUH) took practical steps to prepare the Muslim community for his absence. He reminded them to hold firmly to the Quran and Sunnah, saying, “I am leaving among you two weighty things: the Book of Allah and my Sunnah. If you hold fast to them, you will never go astray.” These words, while straightforward, carried a sense of finality.
In his last public address, the Prophet (PBUH) spoke in the mosque, urging his followers to uphold justice, preserve unity, and worship Allah alone. He made an extraordinary gesture, asking, “If I have wronged anyone, let him take his due from me. If I owe anyone anything, let him claim it from me now.” No one came forward with grievances, underscoring his unparalleled character.
As his condition deteriorated, the Prophet (PBUH) instructed Abu Bakr (RA) to lead the congregational prayers. This act, though simple, carried profound significance, subtly signaling the trust the Prophet (PBUH) placed in Abu Bakr and paving the way for the community’s future leadership.
In his final days, the Prophet (PBUH) spent most of his time in the quarters of Aisha (RA). One of his last actions was to lift the curtain of his room to observe the Muslims praying together. A faint smile crossed his face—a sign of his satisfaction at seeing the community united in worship.
Even in his last moments, his concern for his Ummah remained paramount. His final words were a reminder of the core values of Islam: “Prayer, prayer! And fear Allah regarding those under your care.”
On the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal, in the 11th year of Hijrah, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away, leaving behind a community deeply grieved but guided by the timeless teachings he had delivered.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) final days, like his entire life, were a testament to his unwavering devotion to Allah and his love for humanity. His humility, compassion, and dedication left an indelible mark, providing an eternal source of guidance for Muslims. The revelation of Surah An-Nasr and his actions in these moments highlight his profound wisdom in preparing his followers to carry forward the mission of Islam. His departure was not just the end of an era but the beginning of a legacy that continues to illuminate lives across the world.
