Introduction
The last Sermon of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is recorded as a historic moment in the history of Muslims and is considered as the basis of Muslim belief and actions.It was delivered during the last pilgrimage to Mecca in the year 632 CE,it was a timeless declaration and it reflects the main ideas of humanity shedding light in justice,equality and human dignity in Islam.Often considered as a massive record, it is a charter of human rights addressing important issues of personal and society behavior. Its lessons appeal across millennia and provide direction not only for Muslims but for all people. The great lessons of the Last Sermon and their relevance as the cornerstone for human rights are investigated on this blog.
The Context of the Last Sermon
On the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, 10th year of Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him),delivered his last Sermon while standing on Mount Arafat.He was speaking to more than 100,000 people, the sermon marked the end of his prophecy. It underlined basic Islamic principles and offered moral and ethical directions for a society in peace. Reinforcing the need for group adherence to these values, the location of the sermon, during the holy Hajj pilgrimage, represented unity and subordination to Allah.
Key Messages of the Last Sermon
Equality of Mankind
The equality of all people is one of the last sermon’s central subjects. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“O People, your Lord is One. Your father is one. You all descended from Adam, and Adam was created from clay. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have superiority over a white, except by piety and good action.”
This declaration removes the racial, ethnic, and social discrimination among mankind, laying the groundwork for the equality among human beings in the world. It underlines that, in view of Allah, virtue and piety define a person’s value rather than cast, color or socioeconomic status.
Sanctity of Life and Property
The Prophet (PBUH) underscored the importance of human life, property, and honor:
“O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust.”
He establishes the idea of respect among humanity and the protection of assets and dignity as the basis of society..
Rights and Responsibilities in Relationships
The Sermon reflects the rights of husband and wife highlighting the obligations in the marriage relationships.The Prophet (PBUH) stated:
“O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Treat your women well and be kind to them, for they are your partners and committed helpers.”
Emphasizing compassion, justice, and respect in family life, the Prophet (PBUH) said it would help to guarantee a harmonic and balanced home environment..
Prohibition of Exploitation
The Last Sermon sharply opposes usury (riba) and economic exploitation overall:
“All usury is abolished. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has judged that there is to be no usury, and the usury of Abbas ibn Abdul-Muttalib is abolished.”
This directive led to the foundation of a fair and equitable economic system by discouraging actions that take advantage of weak people and thereby supporting economic justice.
Accountability to Allah
The Prophet (PBUH) exhorted the audience of their ultimate responsibility to Allah:
“O People, beware of Shaytan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope of being worshipped in this land but may still seek to mislead you in smaller matters. So, beware of him in your deeds.”
Emphasizing that actual responsibility rests with the Creator, this reminder underlines the need of mindfulness, sincerity, and integrity in one’s behavior.
The Lasting Legacy of the Last Sermon
The lessons of the Last Sermon have broad consequences since they act as a guide for social justice and human rights. Its universal messages fit modern norms ingrained in international human rights statements. As for:
- Equality and Non-Discrimination: The focus of the sermon on equality reflects ideas stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ( UDHR).
- Protection of Life and Property: The dignity of life and property corresponds with basic human liberties preserving personal safety.
- Economic Justice:The ban on usury emphasizes the importance of justice and openness in financial systems.
Challenges in Implementing the Sermon’s Teachings
Though still relevant today, the ideas of the Last Sermon present difficulties in daily life. Modern problems include racial discrimination, gender inequities, and economic inequality draw attention to the discrepancy between society reality and ideal teachings. Closing this divide calls for everyone to keep these values in public and personal spheres.
How Muslims Can Uphold the Charter Today
Muslims can respect the lessons of the Last Sermon by living according to its values every day. This covers supporting social justice, equality, and fair behavior in contacts as well as compassion. The sermon’s values can be spread even more by community projects, educational courses, and interfaith communication, therefore promoting understanding and cooperation..
Conclusion
Perfecting the core of Islamic ethics and values, the Last Sermon of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a timeless charter of human rights. Its universal messages of justice, equality, and responsibility still motivate initiatives toward a harmonic society. As the Prophet (PBUH) concluded:
“O People, I leave behind me two things: the Quran and my Sunnah, and if you follow these, you will never go astray.”
Calling for the achievement of a society anchored in dignity, fairness, and mutual respect, this timeless direction acts as a lighthouse for Muslims and mankind at large.
