Have you ever thought about how you would react if you were suddenly questioned who your
role model is? Do you actually have one, would you try to come up with a satisfactory answer
even if it’s not entirely accurate or would you plainly say that you do not have one?
The reality of the matter is that everyone has challenges in life. We have our highs and lows and ups and downs. Usually, we let the good times pass by without much reflection, while tough times often make people nag, complain and face depression. It is an undeniable reality that successful navigation through different aspects of our lives requires guidance and role models. This often comes in the form of fathers, bosses, celebrities etc.
With the growth of technology, the online world and social media experts also tend to provide direction for the masses. A famous quote reads: “As a general rule, people disappoint you as you know them.” More often than not, this is what happens with role models as well. Yes, it is very possible that a person might be excelling in one particular field, but people are quickly put off by him or her as other aspects of their life are publicized. An athlete might be a champion on the court but abuses his spouse.
A successful businessman might be defrauding people to get ahead. A child always
adores his parents, but ultimately becomes aware of their weaknesses.
This is why, as Muslims, we are taught to follow the role model of the Holy Prophet Muhammad
(sa). His life and character is an example for us in every aspect. The Holy Quran declares him the
role model for humanity because he is flawless through and through.
Prophet Muhammad (sa) was an orphan born in an isolated desert who has now become the most
famous and discussed name in the history of the world. Almost 1400 years later, billions
continue to speak, marvel and send blessings and peace on this man of God. Against all odds and
persevering through extreme persecution, he eventually overcame and became victorious over
his oppressors. With power to punish, he chose to pardon them all. He is a real hero, the likes of
whom the world will never again witness.
His life represents the epitome of serving God and Humanity. In the spiritual world, he dedicated
himself to worship of Allah and became so close to Him that the Holy Quran calls him the fine
line between humanity and divinity. On the other hand, his life in this world was spent struggling
for human rights and improving their standard of life. He is the most perfect role model for each
one of us.
Ranking the hundred most influential people in the history of mankind, Michael Hart placed the
name of the Holy Prophet (sa) at the very top. Explaining his decision, he stated:
“My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world’s most influential persons may surprise some readers
and maybe be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely
successful on both the religious and secular level.”
Thus, it is incumbent for Muslim youth to understand that their only true role model should be
the Holy Prophet (sa). It is only him who is perfect in every aspect of life. He was flawless in
every capacity and his character remained free of the blemish in every circumstance. Ordinary
human beings, if taken as role models, will always disappoint us as we delve deeper into their
lives. In contrast, a detailed study of the Holy Prophet’s (sa) character provides us light and
guidance at every turn of life.
