In the Quran, Allah describes the believers who follow His Messenger as the best of creatures. This profound status is directly linked to faith in Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Understanding why he is the best of creation and how our faith in him elevates us is essential for every Muslim. Let’s explore the Quranic evidence and the Prophet’s unique virtues.
The Quranic Declaration: Believers as the Best of Creatures
Allah says in the Quran: « Those who have faith and do righteous deeds,- they are the best of creatures. » (Sourate Al-Bayyina, verset 7). This verse explicitly states that those who have faith and perform good deeds are the best of creation. The context of this surah highlights that the people of the Book (Jews and Christians) were divided, but the true believers among them and the Muslims who follow the final revelation are the best. This status is not merely a title; it comes with immense responsibility and honor. The verse directly ties faith in Allah and His Messenger to righteous action, showing that belief must be accompanied by deeds. Moreover, Allah further emphasizes the blessings of faith in the Prophet: « But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, and believe in the (Revelation) sent down to Muhammad – for it is the Truth from their Lord,- He will remove from them their ills and improve their condition. » (Sourate Muhammad, verset 2). This promise of purification and improvement is a direct result of believing in the revelation given to Muhammad ﷺ. Thus, faith in the Prophet is the key to becoming among the best of creation. To explore the Quranic verses about the Prophet’s mission, you can use the Quran reading tool on Al Muslim Plus which includes tafsir for deeper understanding.
The Characteristics of the Best of Creatures
The verse from Al-Bayyina describes believers as ‘the best of creatures’ (khayr al-bariyyah). Scholars explain that this refers to those who combine faith with righteous deeds, following the Prophet’s example. In another verse, Allah describes the companions of the Prophet: « Muhammad is the messenger of Allah; and those who are with him are strong against Unbelievers, (but) compassionate amongst each other. Thou wilt see them bow and prostrate themselves (in prayer), seeking Grace from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure. On their faces are their marks, (being) the traces of their prostration. » (Sourate Al-Fath, verset 29). This description highlights their strength, compassion, devotion in prayer, and the visible effects of worship. These are the qualities that make believers the best of creation. The verse also mentions that they fill the disbelievers with rage, but Allah has promised them forgiveness and a great reward.
Why Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Is the Best of Creation
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the best of creation because Allah chose him from the best lineage, granted him the highest character, and sent him as a mercy to all worlds. The Prophet himself said: « Allah selected Kinānah from the children of Isma‘īl, Quraysh from Kinānah, the children of Hāshim from Quraysh, and me from the children of Hāshim. So I am the master of the children of Adam, without pride. » (Narrated by Ibn Hebban). This hadith establishes his superiority over all humanity. Furthermore, his character was the embodiment of the Quran, as ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: « Indeed, the Prophet’s character was the Qur’an. » (Narrated by Muslim within a long hadith). Anas ibn Mālik also reported: « The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) was the best of people in terms of morals. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). These testimonies confirm that the Prophet’s character was perfect, making him the best role model for humanity. Allah commands us to follow his example: « Ye have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the Praise of Allah. » (Sourate Al-Ahzaab, verset 21). Thus, faith in the Prophet means taking him as our guide in all aspects of life.
The Prophet’s Unique Virtues and Distinctions
The Prophet ﷺ was granted five things that no prophet before him received, as he said: « I was granted five that none before me was granted: I was granted victory through terror from a distance of one month’s journey; the earth has been made for me a mosque and a means of purification, so any man from my Ummah who is caught up by the prayer should pray; the spoils of war have been made lawful for me, although they were not lawful for anyone before me; I have been granted the intercession; and a prophet used to be sent to his people in specific, whereas I have been sent to all people. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). These distinctions highlight his universal mission and the ease granted to his followers. Moreover, the Prophet is the first intercessor on the Day of Judgment, as mentioned in. His status as the ‘master of the children of Adam’ is a testament to his unparalleled rank. Indeed, Allah raised him to the highest station, and believing in him is a requirement for true faith, as stated in the Quran: « The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith. Each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His messengers. ‘We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of His messengers.’ And they say: ‘We hear, and we obey: (We seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.’ » (Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 285).
How Faith in the Prophet Elevates the Believer
Faith in the Prophet ﷺ is not just a declaration; it transforms the believer’s life. When a person truly believes in Muhammad as the final messenger, they commit to following his teachings, which leads to righteousness. Allah says: « Allah did confer a great favour on the believers when He sent among them a messenger from among themselves, rehearsing unto them the Signs of Allah, sanctifying them, and instructing them in Scripture and Wisdom, while, before that, they had been in manifest error. » (Sourate Aal-i-Imraan, verset 164). This verse shows that the Prophet’s mission was to purify and teach the believers, elevating them from error to guidance. By following him, believers attain spiritual purity and wisdom. Furthermore, the Prophet’s character, described as the Quran, becomes the model for believers. The hadith states: « The most perfect believer in terms of his faith is the one who has the most excellent manners, and the best of you are those who are best to their womenfolk. » (Narrated by Abu Daoud & At-Termedhy & Ahmad). Thus, faith in the Prophet directly correlates with good character and treatment of others. To track your daily prayers and strengthen your connection with the Prophet’s example, use the prayer tracker on Al Muslim Plus.
The Prophets as the Best of Creation
Allah has favored some messengers over others, as He says: « Those messengers We endowed with gifts, some above others: To one of them Allah spoke; others He raised to degrees (of honour); to Jesus the son of Mary We gave clear (Signs), and strengthened him with the holy spirit. » (Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 253). Among all prophets, Muhammad ﷺ is the highest in rank. The prophets themselves are the best of creation, as they were chosen by Allah. In Surah Maryam, Allah mentions many prophets and says: « Those were some of the prophets on whom Allah did bestow His Grace,- of the posterity of Adam, and of those who We carried (in the Ark) with Noah, and of the posterity of Abraham and Israel of those whom We guided and chose. Whenever the Signs of (Allah) Most Gracious were rehearsed to them, they would fall down in prostrate adoration and in tears. » (Sourate Maryam, verset 58). This shows their devotion. Believers who follow the prophets, especially Muhammad ﷺ, share in this honor. Allah created everything in the best form: « He Who has made everything which He has created most good: He began the creation of man with (nothing more than) clay, » (Sourate As-Sajda, verset 7) and « We have indeed created man in the best of moulds, » (Sourate At-Tin, verset 4). However, faith elevates some humans above others, and the best of them are the prophets and the righteous believers.
Practical Steps to Strengthen Faith in the Prophet
To increase our faith in the Prophet ﷺ and become among the best of creatures, we can take several practical steps. First, regularly recite and reflect on the Quran, especially the verses that describe the Prophet’s virtues and the believers’ status. Use the Quran tool on Al Muslim Plus to read with tafsir. Second, study the Prophet’s biography (sirah) and his hadiths to understand his character and apply his teachings. The hadiths section on Al Muslim Plus provides authentic collections. Third, send blessings (salawat) upon the Prophet frequently, as this increases love for him. Fourth, emulate his manners in daily life—being honest, compassionate, and just. Finally, make dua for steadfastness on his path. The Prophet ﷺ himself taught us to seek the highest companionship, as he said before his death: « O Allah, the highest Companion. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). This reminds us to aspire to be with the Prophet in the hereafter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘best of creatures’ mean in the Quran?
In Surah Al-Bayyina (verse 7), Allah describes those who have faith and do righteous deeds as the best of creatures (khayr al-bariyyah). This refers to believers who sincerely follow the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and act upon his teachings.
Why is Prophet Muhammad considered the best of creation?
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the best of creation because Allah chose him from the best lineage, granted him perfect character, and sent him as a mercy to all worlds. He is the master of the children of Adam, as he himself stated without pride.
How does faith in the Prophet improve a believer’s life?
Faith in the Prophet leads to following his example, which purifies the soul, improves character, and brings one closer to Allah. It also results in the removal of sins and the improvement of one’s condition, as promised in the Quran.
What are the signs of true faith in the Prophet?
True faith in the Prophet includes obeying his commands, avoiding his prohibitions, loving him more than oneself, and following his Sunnah in all aspects of life. It also manifests in good character and compassion towards others.
Are all believers considered the best of creation?
The Quran specifies that believers who do righteous deeds are the best of creatures. However, this status is conditional upon sincere faith and action. Not all who claim faith automatically attain this rank; it requires striving to follow the Prophet’s path.
How can I increase my love for the Prophet?
Increase your love by studying his life, reciting salawat, reflecting on the Quran, and implementing his teachings. Also, spend time with righteous people who love the Prophet and avoid anything that contradicts his Sunnah.
What is the Prophet’s intercession and who will receive it?
The Prophet ﷺ will intercede on the Day of Judgment for his Ummah, especially those who committed major sins but had faith. This intercession is a special honor granted to him. Believers should hope for it and strive to live righteously.
Faith in Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the cornerstone of Islam and the key to becoming among the best of creation. By following his example, we purify our souls, improve our character, and earn Allah’s pleasure. Let us strive to deepen our love for him and implement his teachings in our daily lives. To further your journey, download the Al Muslim Plus app for access to the Quran, hadiths, prayer times, and more tools that help you follow the Prophet’s path.
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Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Bayyina, verset 7
- Sourate Muhammad, verset 2
- Sourate Al-Fath, verset 29
- Sourate Al-Ahzaab, verset 21
- Sourate Maryam, verset 58
- Sourate Aal-i-Imraan, verset 164
- Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 285
- Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 253
- Sourate As-Sajda, verset 7
- Sourate At-Tin, verset 4
- Hadith n°10859 (Narrated by Ibn Hebban) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6180 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°3503 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°5792 (Narrated by Abu Daoud & At-Termedhy & Ahmad) — grade : Good hadith
- Hadith n°8265 (Narrated by Muslim within a long hadith) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°10988 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith