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Definition: Not very much is known about Muhammad's early life, although he is widely believed to have been born in 570 C.E. in Mecca. The earliest accounts we have of him date to 750 C.E. with the book Life by Ibn Ishaq, more than one hundred years after Muhammad's death.
The name Muhammad means "the Praised one" or "he who is glorified." Muslim tradition also teaches that Muhammad has another two hundred names, each of which praises some important aspect of his character - for example "Beloved of God," "Key of Mercy" and "Sword of God."
Also according to tradition, every mention of Muhammad's name is supposed to be followed by the invocation salla-Llahu 'alayhi wa-salam ("God bless him and give him peace") or by 'alayhi-s-salatu wa-s-salam ("upon him be blesings and peace"). Usually, however, the simpler 'alayhi-s-salam ("peace be upon him," abbreviated in English as pbuh) is used and acceptable.
In the year 610 C.E., at about the age of forty, Muhammad is believed to have experienced "the Call," a common event for religious reformers and revolutionaries. According to his own reports, he was in a dream or dream-like state when he received instruction from Allah (through the angel Gabriel) on what he must believe and what he must do. These instructions were not a one-time event, however, and lasted throughout his life.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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What is Islam?
What is Islam? What do Muslims believe? Where did Islam come from? What is jihad? Find the answers to these questions and more in our Islam FAQ.
