Belief in the end of Prophethood
The belief in the finality of Prophethood (Khatm-e-Nubuwwat) is a fundamental and undisputed tenet in Islam. This belief emphasizes the acceptance of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as the last and final prophet and the rejection of any false claims to prophethood after him. This doctrine is firmly rooted in the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ, and any deviation from it is considered disbelief. Muslims regard the protection and propagation of this belief as their duty, as it is one of the core principles of Islam. The belief in the finality of Prophethood guarantees that Islam is a complete and comprehensive code of life that is sufficient to guide humanity until the Day of Judgment.
The Shariah (Islamic law) revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Qur’an are sufficient for human guidance until the end of time. Therefore, there is no need for any new prophet or revelation, as Islam, through the Qur’an and the Sunnah (the teachings of the Prophet), provides a complete framework for life.
The Prophet ﷺ said: „My example and the example of the prophets before me is like that of a building which was beautifully constructed, except for a missing brick in one corner. People would go around it and admire its beauty, but would say, ‘If only this brick were put in its place!’ I am that brick, and I am the seal of the prophets.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith No. 3535).
Throughout Islamic history, there have been individuals who falsely claimed prophethood, such as Musaylimah al-Kadhdhab, who made his false claim during the lifetime of the Prophet ﷺ. His claim was rejected, and he was defeated by the Muslims. The caliphs and companions of the Prophet ﷺ opposed such false claimants and fought against them. The opposition to these false claims stemmed from the fact that in Islam, any claim to prophethood after Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is considered void.
The belief in the finality of Prophethood is the foundation of a Muslim’s faith. If a person acknowledges the oneness of Allah but accepts someone as a prophet or messenger after the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, in any sense, they are not considered a Muslim and are outside the fold of Islam.
May Allah, the Exalted, grant us the wisdom and understanding to comprehend and convey the belief in the finality of Prophethood. Ameen.
Altaf Choudhry
07.09.2024
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