The blessed birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is among the most significant moments in human history. His arrival was not only a source of joy for his family but also a sign of divine mercy for the entire world. Before his birth, Arabia was a land of darkness, where ignorance, idol worship, and injustice dominated daily life. The birth of the Prophet ﷺ brought hope, light, and blessings, signifying the beginning of an era that would transform mankind forever.
From his very first moments, Noor (light), fragrance, and signs of purity surrounded him. His childhood was filled with miracles and extraordinary events, which showed that he was chosen for the greatest mission of guiding humanity. Understanding these events is important for every Muslim, as it increases our love for him, strengthens our faith, and reminds us of the mercy of Allah (اللہ) upon this Ummah.
The Birth of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born on Monday, 12th Rabiʿ al-Awwal, 571 CE, in the holy city of Makkah. This year became famous as the Year of the Elephant, when Allah (اللہ) destroyed Abraha’s army with flocks of birds that pelted them with stones, protecting the Kaaba from destruction. This itself was a sign that something great was about to happen.
The blessed child was born in the house of his mother, Bibi Amina (رضي الله عنها). He was born circumcised, pure, and in a state of sajda (prostration), with Noor shining on his face. His father, Abdullah, had passed away before his birth, so the news was carried to his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, who was near the Kaaba. When he heard the glad tidings, his heart filled with joy. He rushed home, embraced his grandson, and thanked Allah (اللہ) for this blessing.
Abdul Muttalib then carried the infant to the Kaaba, prayed for blessings, and named him Muhammad ﷺ. This name was rare among the Arabs at that time, and it meant “the one who is praised repeatedly.” It was destined that he would be praised in this world and the Hereafter.
Even his uncle Abu Lahab, who later opposed Islam, celebrated the news of his birth. Out of happiness, he freed his slave woman Thuwaybah (رضي الله عنها), who was among the first women to nurse the Prophet ﷺ.
Early Nursing and Care
In Arab society, it was a tradition to entrust newborns to wet nurses from the desert tribes. This allowed children to grow strong, learn pure Arabic, and experience a healthy environment away from the crowded city.
After Thuwaybah (رضي الله عنها) nursed him, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was entrusted to Halima Saʿdiyah (رضي الله عنها) of the Banu Sa’d tribe. At that time, Halima’s family was struggling with poverty, drought, and hunger. She herself was weak, with little milk for her own child, and her animals produced almost nothing. She later narrated that her condition was so poor that other families avoided entrusting their children to her.
Yet when she saw the infant Muhammad ﷺ, his Noor (light) captured her heart. She decided to take him, even though his father had passed away and she expected no financial benefit. Little did she know that this decision would change her life forever.
The Blessings in the House of Halima Saʿdiyah (رضي الله عنها)
From the very moment she carried Muhammad ﷺ, Halima’s life transformed completely. Blessings began to appear in every corner of her household:
- Her milk began to flow in abundance, nourishing both the Prophet ﷺ and her own son, who had previously gone hungry.
- The weak donkey she rode, once the slowest of the caravan, suddenly became the fastest on the return journey.
- Her goats, which had been dry, began producing plenty of milk, enough to fill every container.
- Her family, once hungry and tired, ate and drank until they were satisfied and slept peacefully.
- Neighbors noticed a glow from her home and asked what lamp she kept lit at night. She replied: “It is not a lamp, but the Noor of the blessed child in my care.”
Halima and her family realized that their home had been filled with barakah (blessings) because of the Prophet ﷺ. They began to feel honored and protected, knowing that this child was no ordinary boy.
Miraculous Signs in His Childhood
As the Prophet ﷺ grew, many extraordinary events became evident. Unlike other children, he was calm, dignified, and wise beyond his years.
When he first spoke, his words were praises of Allah (اللہ):
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Alhamdulillahi Rabbil-‘Alamin, wa Subhan-Allahi bukratan wa asila.”
Unlike other children who engaged in games, he avoided useless play. When other children invited him, he would say: “I was not created for play; I was created for higher purposes.”
People reported that angels were seen rocking his cradle, and the moon would move at his gesture. These miracles showed his extraordinary status even before prophethood.
The Event of Shaqq al-Sadr (Opening of the Chest)
One of the most remarkable events in his childhood was the Shaqq al-Sadr (Opening of the Chest). While he was grazing goats with Halima’s children, two angels appeared in white garments. They laid him down, opened his chest, removed something, cleansed his heart, and filled it with divine light.
Halima’s son, frightened, ran back shouting: “My brother Muhammad has been seized!” When Halima and her husband rushed to the scene, they found the Prophet ﷺ sitting calmly, his face shining even brighter.
Though they were relieved, Halima and her husband feared for his safety. Out of concern, they decided it was best to return him to his mother.
Return to His Mother’s Care
When Halima returned the Prophet ﷺ to Bibi Amina (رضي الله عنها), she narrated the entire incident. But Amina was calm and reassured. She explained that even during her pregnancy, she had witnessed many miracles and signs. She said with certainty: “My son is no ordinary child. He is protected from every harm, for Allah has chosen him for a great mission.”
From then on, the Prophet ﷺ remained under the care of his mother. He grew with dignity, wisdom, and purity, preparing for the noble mission of prophethood.
Conclusion
The birth and early life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are filled with signs of divine mercy and blessings. From the Noor at his birth to the miracles in Halima’s household, every moment reflected his greatness. The event of Shaqq al-Sadr was a clear sign that he was chosen for the mission of guiding humanity. His presence brought light, peace, and blessings wherever he went.
Reflecting on these events increases our love for him and strengthens our faith. As Muslims, it reminds us that following his Sunnah is the path to success.
May Allah (اللہ) fill our hearts with his love, bless us with his intercession on the Day of Judgment, and allow us to live with humility and faith as he taught. Ameen.
FAQs
When was Prophet Muhammad ﷺ born?
He was born on 12th Rabiʿ al-Awwal, 571 CE, on a Monday, in Makkah.
Who were his early nurses?
He was first nursed by Thuwaybah (رضي الله عنها), later by his mother Amina, and then by Halima Saʿdiyah (رضي الله عنها).
What blessings appeared in Halima’s household?
Her milk increased, her donkey became fast, her animals produced plenty of milk, and her home glowed with Noor.
What was the event of Shaqq al-Sadr?
It was when angels opened his chest, purified his heart, and filled it with divine light.
What were the Prophet’s ﷺ first spoken words?
His first words were praises of Allah: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Alhamdulillahi Rabbil-‘Alamin, wa Subhan-Allahi bukratan wa asila.”