Characteristics and Traits of Muhammad

Muhammad's life is chronicled down to minor details in Islamic books. He led the people by way of example. His habits and manners were beyond compare, and his companions tried to imitate him. He was always known as the Honest, the Truthful. He often went to bed on an empty stomach because he'd given his food to someone more in need. Interestingly, he emphasized the nutritious value of foods such as honey, dates, milk, and olive oil. He ate with his right hand (throughout the Koran, the right hand is held in higher esteem than the left) and always pronounced Bismillah—meaning “In the name of Allah”—before eating.

Muhammad immersed himself in worship of Allah, spending lengthy portions of the nights praying. Despite being promised Paradise, Muhammad was a humble person. He never looked down upon the poor or slaves, and he even accepted their invitations to meals, although he knew they would only serve him bread dipped in fat. He always made himself available for questions or guidance to anyone who sought it. He maintained a calm demeanor and never lost his temper or struck at anyone except in battle.

The Prophet's virtues are too numerous to mention. The man was a role model for Muslims, setting standards that Muslims spend their lives trying to achieve. He was loved by Allah, as is said in the Koran: “Lo! Allah and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O you who believe! Ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation” (33:56).

It is prohibited in Islam to depict the face of Allah or any of the prophets. Any attempt to graphically illustrate or impersonate their voices or characters is extremely unacceptable to Muslims. That includes paintings, pictures, cartoons, and live-action films. The reason for this is that the glory and might of Allah is beyond human imagination, and that his prophets must retain their honor and respect.

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