The birthday of the Prophet Muhammad is an important moment for Muslims to reflect on the noble values taught by the Prophet. In addition to commemorating the birth of the figure who brought the light of Islam, the Prophet’s birthday is also the right time to remember the great role of a Muslim in the life of the nation and state. In Islam, every individual has a responsibility towards society and the state, even in the most difficult circumstances.
Concern for the state and society is a concrete form of practicing Islamic teachings that emphasize the importance of maintaining public welfare. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) pointed out that being a statesman, or at least having concern for state affairs, is a great form of worship. As he said: “Whoever among you sees an evil, then let him change it with his hands. If he is unable, then with his tongue. If he is unable, then with his heart, and that is the weakest of faith.” (HR Muslim). This hadith shows how important the role of a Muslim is in improving the situation around him, including in state affairs.
Statesman: Noble Character Required in Social Life
Rasulullah SAW gave many concrete examples as a statesman. One very relevant example is when he united the various tribes in Medina through the Medina Charter. Before the arrival of the Prophet, the city was full of conflict and division. However, with his wisdom, the Prophet was able to create an agreement that bound various groups to coexist peacefully.
The Medina Charter is not just an agreement, but also a state document that guarantees the rights and obligations of every group, both Muslims and non-Muslims. This shows that Rasulullah SAW was not only a spiritual leader, but also a statesman who was able to see common interests above the interests of certain groups.
In a hadith, the Prophet said: “Verily, the most beloved person to Allah is the most beneficial to others.” (HR. Thabrani). The Prophet always prioritized the welfare of his people, without discriminating against their backgrounds, an attitude that is very important for a statesman.
The Values of Statesmanship in Islam
Islam teaches that a leader must be fair and wise. Another example that shows the statesmanship of the Prophet Muhammad was in the Hudaibiyah Agreement. At that time, although the agreement seemed unfavorable to Muslims, the Prophet still signed it in order to create long-term peace with the Quraysh. This decision shows how the Prophet always considered the long-term interests and benefits of the people, even if it had to sacrifice momentary gains.
In the Qur’an, Allah SWT says: “Verily, Allah enjoins you to be just and to do good, and to give to your relatives, and Allah forbids evil deeds, wrongdoing and hostility. He teaches you that you may learn.” (QS. An-Nahl: 90). The story of the Hudaibiyah Agreement is one proof of how the Prophet Muhammad applied the principles of justice and wisdom in his every step as a leader.
Read also: What are the criteria for a just and democratic leader in Islam?
Exemplifying the Prophet Muhammad as a Statesman
When we remember the Prophet’s birthday, we are also reminded of the important role of Rasulullah SAW as a visionary statesman. One other example is when Medina was besieged by the Ahzab army (Khandaq War). In this precarious situation, the Prophet showed strategic prowess by adopting the idea of digging a trench as a city defense, an innovation that had never been applied in the Arabian Peninsula before. This action shows how a leader must be ready to take unconventional decisions in order to protect his people.
Allah SWT says in the Qur’an: “And consult with them in the matter. Then when you have made up your mind, then put your trust in Allah.” (QS. Ali ‘Imran: 159). The Prophet always involved his companions in the decision-making process, showing that leadership in Islam is about collaboration and deliberation.
The commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is not only about remembering the birth of a great prophet, but also about taking lessons from his life as a leader and statesman. In the midst of the various challenges facing this nation, we are all reminded to emulate his statesmanship traits – such as justice, wisdom, and courage in making difficult decisions.
By emulating the Prophet Muhammad, we can contribute to creating a more just, peaceful and prosperous society. Let us make this Prophet’s birthday a moment to reflect and improve ourselves, so that we can all develop the character of statesmanship that will bring goodness to the people and the nation.