‘Prophet more merciful than people are to themselves’

‘Prophet more merciful than people are to themselves’ Ahmed Shaaban / 11 July 2013 Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), known for good ethics, has shown mercy not only on Muslims but the mankind and all creatures. This was affirmed by Saudi scholar Dr Sheikh Nasir Al Zahrani in his lecture ‘Peace be upon you Prophet Muhammad’, on Wednesday night. The preaching, the first in a series of 22 lectures, is part of the 17th session of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “Prophet Muhammad, the master of all Adam’s children and the first to enter paradise, is more merciful to people than they are to themselves.” He added that the Prophet, who has taught true peace to humanity, was known for truthfulness and honesty. “The Prophet was saluted by stones, shaded by clouds in the open desert, greeted by mountains, honoured by trees, and supported by God.” Prophet Muhammad, whose name is associated with the name of Almighty Allah five times a day, led all prophets in prayer in the Aqsa Masjid in Jerusalem. “Prophet Muhammad who was mentioned in the Holy Quran over 4,000 times in name and by character was a role model in tolerance with all his enemies and those who hurt him and his followers,” he said, noting that he never took revenge. He said Prophet Muhammad was very modest, refused flattering, and showed utmost tolerance and behaviour to his companions, relatives, neighbours, and even enemies. “He used to instruct his followers call for Islam in the nicest and easiest way.” Dr Al Zahrani said he has been working on a big project billed ‘Peace be upon you Prophet Muhammad, spanning museums, exhibitions, and over 500 volumes, of which 100 books have been already finished. “This record encyclopedia depicts every aspect of the Prophet’s biography.” The project, including a TV channel and social networks, makes use of the latest technologies. “The second round of the exhibition billed ‘Peace be upon you Prophet Mohammed’ shall be held in Dubai after the holy month of Ramadan.” The cultural programme of the Award which will continue until July 27, will see a lecture by renowned Syrian scholar Dr Mohammed Ratib Al Nabulsi on the humanitarian aspects of Prophet Muhammad on July 11 night, followed by a lecture themed ‘General aspects of the Prophet’s biography’ by popular Saudi scholar Dr Sheikh Abdul Wahhab Al Turairi on July 12. All lectures are slated to start at 10.30pm every night after the Taraweeh Prayer. Valuable prizes await attendees all along the 1 to 20 Ramadan Award,” he said, noting that more details are available at the website www.quran.gov.ae. The 11-category award, aimed to serve the Holy Quran and promote the general standard of the Quranic performance, is to see, as of July 17, 89 contestants of the over 160 countries contacted from across the world to participate in the competition held under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com Taylor Scott International