The Excellent Exemplar - Muhammad — Page 8
THE EXCELLENT EXEMPLAR — MUHAMMAD 8 afterward, the death of his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, removed not only the head of the family but also the person who had been in the place of a father to him since birth. Muhammad now passed under the care of his uncle, Abu Talib, who had several children of his own and was by no means well - off. Muhammad shared whatever was available with the rest of the family, and was accorded a mother’s care and affection by his aunt. He had affectionate recollections of all that his aunt had done for him and had meant to him. Many years later, when she died at a ripe old age, the Prophet himself lowered her body into the grave, and said of her: “Thou were ever an affectionate mother to m e. ” Enough is known of the youth and early manhood of Muhammad to indicate that he was gentle, patient, and obedient, respectful toward his elders, affectionate with his companions, and full of compassion for those who, on account of age, infirmity, or adversi ty, stood in need of help. As he grew to manhood, his good qualities were recognized by his contemporaries. They were impressed by his complete integrity, in word and deed, and he became generally known among them as “El - Ameen,” meaning “the Trusty,” or “t he Faithful. ” At home he helped with the household chores, and outside he assisted his uncle by carrying out such tasks and duties as pertained to him or were assigned to him. On one occasion, at least, he accompanied his uncle in a trade caravan to Syria. During the co urse of this journey, Abu Talib observed that his young nephew possessed a reserved and retiring disposition, betrayed no inclination toward levity or indulgence, and was indeed a person