Some of those who surrounded the Prophet (saas) were less than
well-mannered and cultured. It can be seen from a number of verses that
they could not understand how thoughtless they were and that their
behavior could make others uncomfortable. For instance, verses speak of
people entering houses by the back instead of the front, arriving when
the Prophet (saas) was dining, or else taking up his time by talking
for a long time. The Prophet Muhammad (saas), on the other hand, was
very thoughtful, courteous, patient and civilized, and treated such
people nevertheless with the greatest tolerance. Also, in the most
pleasant manner, he warned those around him against behavior that would
make others uncomfortable, and thus won their sympathy, teaching them
through patience and perseverence. That comportment made him an
excellent example for all believers.

Our Lord, Who possesses infinite love and compassion, assisted the
Prophet (saas) in this matter and supported him with the verses, one of
which says:

Accounts by his companions give many examples of the Prophet
(saas)’s courteous and considerate behavior. Because of his being both
a Messenger of Allah and a head of state, the Prophet (saas) was in
constant contact with people from all walks of life, from the wealthy
leaders of states and tribes to poor, defenceless women and orphans. He
was able to communicate with and win the hearts of people whose social
status, ways of life and customs were very different from one another,
he exhibited understanding, patience and a desirable attitude.

As can be seen from incidents recounted by those around him, the
Prophet (saas) was most kind, above reproach, amiable and thoughtful.
He practiced the rules of courtesy and politeness in the best and most
ideal way throughout his entire life.

Aisha (r.a.) described the exquisite morality she saw in the Prophet (saas) in these terms:

“The Prophet (saas)’s nature was the Qur’an”. 1

Anas bin Malik (ra), who was raised in the Prophet (saas)’s
household and served him for many years, spoke of his matchless
kindness:

“Allah’s
Messenger (saas) that when he shook hands with anyone he did not
withdraw his hands till the other man withdrew his. Similarly, he did
not turn away his face from anyone till that man turned his face to the
other side. And he was never seen to put forward his knees in front of
one with whom he was sitting.” 2

“Ibn
‘Umar reported that Allah’s Messenger (saas) changed the name of Asiya
(Disobedient) and said: ‘You are Jamila (i.e.good and handsome)’.” 3

“Whenever one spoke to him the other would keep quiet and listen till he would finish.” 4

“Anas bin Malik (ra) says: ‘I remained in the service of the
Rasulullah (saas) for ten years. He never once told me ‘Oof.’ When I
did something, he never asked me why did you do so? When I did not do a
certain task, he never asked me why I did not do it’.” 5

The Prophet (saas) taught thousands of people during his life, and
was a means by which those who knew nothing of religion and morality
came to be morally superior, well-behaved, thoughtful and
self-sacrificing. Even after his death, the Prophet (saas) is still
teaching by means of his words, attitudes and behavior, and is a most
noble guide and teacher. (For further reading about the attributes of
the Prophet (saas), see “The Prophet Muhammad (saas)” by Harun Yahya)

1. Sahih Muslim Hadith

2. Maulana Muhammad Manzoor No’mani, Ma’ariful Hadith, (Meaning
and Message of the Traditions), Darul – Ishaat Publications, Karachi,
Volume 4, p.334

3. Sahih Muslim, Islamic Book Service, New Delhi, 2000, Volume 3, p.442

4. Shamaa-il Tirmidhi Contents, (334) Hadith Number 9

5. Shamaa-il Tirmidhi, Islamic Book Service Publications, New Delhi, 2000, Islamic Book Service, New Delhi, 2000, p. 362