Portents of Prophethood

With his aversion to some of the most cohesive social ties in Makkan society, it was inevitable that Muhammad would grow apart from his fellow Makkans and their depraved way of life that included public drunkenness and female infanticide.

He began to long for solitude, and preferred to spend his time alone, away from the noisy festivals and crowded markets. At the same time, he felt the need to save his people from the destruction he felt was imminent.

His discontentment grew, and he began to seek refuge in the cave of Hira2. Here he would spend long periods alone, and it was here that he worshipped not idols or imagined gods, but the one true God – Allah.

Following the monotheistic practice of his forefather, Ibraheem , every year, for three consecutive years, he spent the month of Ramadan in the cave. He would then return to Makkah, circumambulate the Ka’bah and then go back home.

When Muhammad reached forty years of age, he began to experience what could be called portents of Prophethood. He would have visions, and whatever appeared to him in these visions and dreams would come true.