Who were the prophets before Muhammad?
The Abrahamic faiths (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) all share a focus on key figures, including many prophets. The Qur鈥檃n says, Of some messengers we have already told you the story; of others we have not; 鈥 and to Moses God spoke direct(Qur鈥檃n 4:164).
There were six key prophets before Muhammad:
- Adam was created as the first human and given the role of khalifahSuccessor; inheritor; representative custodian; vice-regent. In the Qur鈥檃n, Adam is called the khalifah of God, and Muslims believe that humans are God鈥檚 khalifahs on Earth - an important concept in the Islamic religion.. Muslims learn about their role on Earth from the example of Adam. Adam was forgiven for his sinAct of rebellion or disobedience against the known will of God in Judaism, Christianity or Islam. and some believe he built the first Ka'aba or Ka鈥檅ahThe cube-shaped building in the centre of Makkah (Mecca), which is the most sacred site in Islam.. He was given knowledge to pass on to the rest of the human race.
- Ibrahim is seen as the father of the Arab people. He refused to worship idols (people other than Allah who might be greatly admired) and he rebuilt the 碍补鈥檃产补 following the great flood. Ibrahim had his faith tested, which teaches Muslims that they must be prepared to submit to Allah in the same way. He is known as Abraham in Judaism and Christianity.
- 滨蝉尘补鈥檌濒 was one of Ibrahim鈥檚 sons and is associated with Makkah and the construction of the 碍补鈥檃产补. He is known as Ishmael in Judaism and Christianity.
- Musa taught Muslims that there is one God. He is thought to be the only prophet that Allah spoke to directly. He is known as Moses in Judaism and Christianity.
- Dawud was known for his bravery and wisdom. He is known as David in Judaism and Christianity.
- In the Qur鈥檃n, Isa is referred to as the 鈥渟on of Mary.鈥 He is known as Jesus in Christianity. However, Muslims do not believe that he was crucified and resurrected (that is a Christian belief) or that he was the son of God.
Question
What is the role of a prophet?
To communicate messages from Allah and to act as a connection between Allah and people on Earth.