Return To Mecca |
The Messenger's opponents, who had persecuted him and his followers relentlessly for so long, were now at his mercy, awaiting punishment. When the Messenger had humbly thanked God for the success which had been granted to his community, he who came with the Message of mercy and salvation to all the world told them: 'No blame is on you this day. Go to your homes, for you are all free.' ' Even those who did not accept his teachings lived in peace, safety and protection, for the Holy Book clearly says, 'There is no compulsion in the matter of faith'(2:257) The last sermon, which
the Messenger delivered on this occasion, was the fulfillment of his
mission. He emphasized the Oneness of God, the sacredness of the Message,
the coming of the Day of Judgment, respect for women and sanctity of life
and property, saying, 'Know that all believers are brothers to one
another. You are one brotherhood. I have left with you that which, if you
take hold of and follow, your affairs will not go wrong, namely, the Book
of God and the Practice of His Messenger...' The death of the Messenger
The Messenger fell ill and, after rallying briefly, grew steadily worse,
his strength failing rapidly. At noon on Monday, June 8, 632, while he was
praying earnestly in a whisper, the spirit of the Last Messenger took
flight to the 'blessed Companionship on high. '...To God we belong, and to
Him is our return.' (2:156)
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