How Should We Love the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)?
Love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is an inseparable part of faith. A believer must possess deep respect, sincere love, and the highest sense of reverence for him in his heart. Islamic Shari‘ah presents this love not merely as an emotional sentiment but as a fundamental requirement of faith. Therefore, a Muslim’s faith becomes complete only when Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) become dearer to him than everything else.
Allah the Almighty says:
“Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your spouses, your relatives, the wealth you have acquired, the commerce you fear may decline, and the dwellings you cherish are more beloved to you than Allah, His Messenger, and striving in His cause, then wait until Allah brings about His command.” Surah At-Tawbah — 9:24
The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said:
“None of you will truly believe until I am more beloved to him than his father and his children.” Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 13
In another narration he said:
“None of you will believe until I am more beloved to him than his father, his children, and all people.” Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 14
These evidences clearly show that love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is an essential requirement of faith. However, this love must remain within the guidance of the Shari‘ah. In society, two opposite tendencies are often observed regarding this matter. One group exaggerates in their love and elevates him beyond human limits, sometimes attributing to him qualities that belong only to Allah. On the other hand, another group reduces his status to that of an ordinary person and denies the importance of his Sunnah and guidance. Both positions contradict true love.
Some behaviors in society clearly contradict the claim of loving the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). One of them is neglecting the Sunnah. Many people perform the fundamental acts of worship merely as rituals and remain indifferent toward the Sunnah. Visible Sunnahs such as the Sunnah Mu’akkadah prayers, the Witr prayer, Sunnahs related to food and clothing, and the Sunnahs of Hajj and fasting are often neglected. Yet the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said:
“Whoever turns away from my Sunnah is not from me.” Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 5063
Similarly, denying authentic Hadith or rejecting them through various arguments is also contrary to love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The Qur’an instructs:
“Whatever the Messenger gives you, take it; and whatever he forbids you from, refrain from it.” Surah Al-Hashr — 59:7
Likewise, distancing oneself from the Seerah and teachings of the Messenger, showing inattentiveness when his life and message are discussed, belittling the followers of the Sunnah, introducing innovations (bid‘ah) into the religion, and exaggerating regarding his status are all contrary to genuine love.
The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) himself warned against exaggeration. He said:
“Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians exaggerated concerning the son of Mary. I am only a servant of Allah. So say: the servant of Allah and His Messenger.” Sahih Bukhari — Hadith: 3445
He also warned against turning his grave into a place of celebration and said:
“Do not make my grave a place of festivity, and send blessings upon me, for your blessings reach me wherever you are.” Sunan Abu Dawud — Hadith: 2042
On the other hand, he said:
“May the nose of the person be rubbed in dust in whose presence my name is mentioned and he does not send blessings upon me.” Jami‘ At-Tirmidhi — Hadith: 3545
In reality, love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is manifested through several fundamental actions. First, giving him the highest rank among all people and showing him due honor and respect. He himself said:
“I will be the leader of the children of Adam on the Day of Resurrection—and this is no boast.” Sahih Muslim — Hadith: 2278
Second, maintaining the highest level of etiquette and respect toward him. Allah the Almighty says:
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who believe, send blessings and peace upon him.” Surah Al-Ahzab — 33:56
Third, believing as true all the information he conveyed. He does not speak from his own desire; rather it is revelation sent to him. Allah says:
“Nor does he speak from his own desire. It is nothing but revelation revealed.” Surah An-Najm — 53:3–4
Fourth, obeying him and following his example. Allah the Almighty says:
Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example.” Surah Al-Ahzab — 33:21
It is also stated:
“Whoever obeys the Messenger has indeed obeyed Allah.” Surah An-Nisa — 4:80
Furthermore, accepting the Sunnah of the Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) without hesitation is one of the essential conditions of faith. Allah says:
“But no, by your Lord, they will not truly believe until they make you judge in their disputes and find within themselves no discomfort from what you have decided and submit completely.” Surah An-Nisa — 4:65
Supporting the Messenger of Allah, standing in his defense, and protecting his honor are also important aspects of love. Allah says:
“Those who seek the bounty and pleasure of Allah and support Allah and His Messenger—they are the truthful.” Surah Al-Hashr — 59:8
Loving and respecting his Companions, considering them as role models, and following them also strengthens love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Similarly, spreading his Sunnah and implementing it in one’s life is one of the clearest expressions of genuine love.
Therefore, love for the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is not merely a verbal claim. Rather, it is demonstrated through belief, obedience, following his example, and implementing his Sunnah. Adopting his teachings in every aspect of life is the true sign of love for a believer.