Prophet Muhammad’s teachings on universal brotherhood form a cornerstone of Islamic ethics, emphasizing the fundamental equality of all human beings. Regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status, the Prophet sought to foster a sense of unity and fraternity among his followers. The concept of universal brotherhood in Islam is rooted in both the Quran and the Prophet’s actions, outlining a vision for a society free from prejudice and discrimination.

1. Quranic Foundations:

   • The Quran, the holy book of Islam, explicitly addresses the concept of universal brotherhood. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), it is stated, “O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.”
   • This verse highlights the diversity among human beings as a deliberate act of creation, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and understanding these differences. The measure of superiority is not based on race or ethnicity but on righteousness and piety.

2. The Farewell Sermon:

   • In his farewell sermon during the pilgrimage of Hajj, Prophet Muhammad reiterated the principles of universal brotherhood. He stated, “All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black, nor a black has any superiority over a white, except by piety and good action.”
   • This powerful declaration emphasizes that the true measure of a person’s worth lies in their character and moral conduct rather than superficial characteristics.

3. Equality in Worship:

   • The Prophet established a mosque in Medina that served as a place of worship for Muslims of various backgrounds. This inclusive space reflected the Prophet’s commitment to equality in the eyes of God, where all individuals, regardless of their social status, ethnicity, or race, could stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer.

4. Acts of Compassion:

   • Prophet Muhammad’s life was marked by numerous acts of compassion and kindness towards people from diverse backgrounds. His interactions with individuals from different tribes, ethnicities, and religions showcased the universality of his message and the inclusive spirit he aimed to instill in the Muslim community.

5. Social Justice and Brotherhood:

   • The Prophet actively worked towards establishing a just society that upheld the rights of all individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds. His emphasis on social justice was rooted in the belief that a society built on fairness and equity would naturally foster a sense of brotherhood among its members.

In essence, Prophet Muhammad’s teachings on universal brotherhood underscored the intrinsic equality of all human beings. These teachings are not confined to theoretical ideals but were manifested in the Prophet’s actions, shaping the ethos of the early Muslim community. The concept of universal brotherhood continues to be a guiding principle for Muslims, promoting unity and inclusivity in a world marked by diversity.