Prophet Muhammad's Ability to Understand the Souls of His Companions

The commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday can be understood by studying his exemplary life. One aspect worthy of emulation is how the Prophet understood the souls of his followers.

The Prophet Muhammad is known as a great leader. He has a vast number of followers to this day.

During his struggle to spread Islam, the Prophet Muhammad had followers known as the Prophet’s companions. These companions were known for their high loyalty to the Prophet Muhammad, making them one of his pillars of support in defending and spreading the teachings of Islam.

The first chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Prof DR Hamka (Buya Hamka), wrote in his book titled Sejarah Umat Islam that the Prophet Muhammad possessed the ability to understand the souls of his companions. It was because of this that the companions became very loyal to the Prophet Muhammad.

Indeed, all his companions were willing to die defending him, and all were given greatness and had their spirits elevated. Thus, the companions felt they were honoured as great human beings.

“He gave them recognition according to their respective levels,” wrote Buya Hamka.

For example, regarding Abu Bakar, the Prophet Muhammad said, “The woman I hold dearest is Aisyah, and the man I love is her father (Abu Bakar).”

Regarding Umar bin Khattab, he said, “If there were to be a prophet after me, surely Umar would be that prophet.”

Regarding Ustman, the Prophet said, “If I had another daughter, O Ustman, surely you would be the one I would take as a son-in-law.”

Regarding Ali bin Abi Thalib, the Prophet said, “I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.”

Regarding Az-Zubair, the Prophet said, “Every prophet has a hawary (loyal follower), and my hawary is Az-Zubair.”

Abdullah bin Abbas was given the title of Islamic scholar by the Prophet and was prayed for so that he might gain knowledge of the Quran.