Under his uncle’s care

Under his uncle’s care

After the death of Abdul Muttalib, his son Abu Talib took Muhammad under his care. Abu Talib and Abdullah, the Prophet’s father, were brothers, both born of the same mother. Abu Talib was not a wealthy man, but Muhammad brought Allah’s blessings with him, and suddenly Abu Talib found that he could support his family easily with a small sum of money.

Bahira’s warning

When Muhammad was twelve years old (some sources specify that he was twelve years, two months and ten days old), Abu Talib planned to accompany a trade caravan to Syria. Both Muhammad and Abu Talib dreaded the long separation, so Abu Talib decided to take Muhammad with him. 23 Once the caravan reached Basra on the border of Syria, the travellers broke for a short stay. A Christian monk by the name of Bahira lived in this city, and he came to welcome the caravan. He walked past all the travellers and approached the young Muhammad . Holding Muhammad’s hand, he said: “This is the chief of the world and the Messenger of the Lord. God has sent him as a mercy for all mankind.” “Why do you say this?” the people inquired of him. Bahira explained: “When he came this side of the pass, stones and trees bowed in prostration. They do not prostrate for anyone other than a Prophet. Moreover, I recognised him from the Seal of Prophethood, which lies like an apple on the soft bone below his shoulders. It is mentioned in our Scriptures.” Bahira then held a feast in honour of the caravan. Later he took Abu Talib aside and pleaded with him not to take Muhammad any further. He urged him to send the boy back. He feared that the Jews and Romans might recognise him as the Promised Messenger, in which case, he felt, Muhammad’s life would be endangered. Abu Tablib heeded the monk’s warnings and concerned for his nephew’s safety, sent Muhammad back to Makkah. Coming of age in Makkah, Muhammad played an active role in his society and participated in some significant events in the community, two of which are recounted below.