The Character of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Allah, the Almighty, praises and describes the noble character of His Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Qur’an, saying:
{And indeed, you are of a great moral character} [Al-Qalam, 4].

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known for having the most perfect and noble character. His manners were unparalleled in goodness, and his actions exemplified the highest standards of virtue. Anas ibn Malik (RA) narrated:
“The Prophet (PBUH) had the best manners of all people.”
Additionally, Safiyya bint Huyayy (RA) stated:
“I have never seen anyone with better character than the Messenger of Allah (PBUH).”

When Aisha (RA) was asked about the character of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), she replied:
“His character was the Qur’an.” (Sahih Muslim).

This profound statement by Aisha (RA) directs us to understand that the character of the Prophet (PBUH) was in perfect alignment with the teachings of the Qur’an. His conduct was a reflection of the commands and prohibitions found in the Qur’an. His life was a living example of embodying the virtues praised by the Qur’an and steering clear of its condemned actions.

Ibn Kathir (RA) explained in his tafsir:
“This means that the Prophet (PBUH) embodied the implementation of the Qur’an, both in terms of what it commanded and what it forbade. Whatever the Qur’an instructed him to do, he did it, and whatever it prohibited, he avoided. This was the natural disposition Allah created in him—having all the noble qualities such as modesty, generosity, courage, forgiveness, and all other beautiful traits.” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir).

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was also described in the Torah by Abdullah ibn Amr (RA), who said:
“I asked Abdullah ibn Amr to tell me about the description of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Torah, and he replied: ‘Yes, by Allah, he is described in the Torah as he is described in the Qur’an: ‘O Prophet, indeed We have sent you as a witness, a bringer of good tidings, and a warner, and as a protector for the illiterate. You are My servant and Messenger; I have named you ‘Al-Mutawakkil’ (The One Who Puts His Trust in Allah). You are not rude, harsh, or loud in the markets. You do not repay evil with evil, but you forgive and overlook. Allah will not take your life until He establishes this upright religion through you, so that people will declare ‘There is no god but Allah’, opening blind eyes, deaf ears, and sealed hearts.'” (Sahih Bukhari).

What is Meant by Good Character?

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Piety is good character.” (Sahih Muslim).

Sheikh Ibn Uthaymin explained this hadith as follows:
“Good character includes being excellent in your behavior both with Allah and with His creation. When it comes to your relationship with Allah, it means accepting His commandments with contentment and submission, without any discomfort or objection. For example, when Allah commands you to pray, fast, or give charity, you respond with an open heart and willingness. As for good character with others, it includes avoiding harm, enduring hardship with patience, and showing a pleasant demeanor.”

Despite having the most perfect character, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would pray for improvement in his manners and seek refuge from bad character. Aisha (RA) narrated:
“The Prophet (PBUH) used to pray: ‘O Allah, as You have beautified my outward appearance, beautify my character as well.'”

Additionally, Abu Huraira (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) would often say:
“O Allah, I seek refuge in You from division, hypocrisy, and bad character.”

Conclusion

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) served as the ultimate example of good character, embodying the teachings of the Qur’an in his every action. His life provides a blueprint for believers on how to interact with Allah and His creation, showing patience, kindness, and humility at all times. His constant prayers for good character remind us that even the best of creation sought to improve himself through supplication and devotion to Allah.