In our last article, we discussed the childhood of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). In this article, we will shed light on His youth and the early years of His life.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known for his hard work and determination from a very young age. As a young man, He began earning a living as a businessman and trader. He took a keen interest in trade early on, and His uncle, Abu Talib, played a key role in training Him. Abu Talib encouraged Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to join him on trading missions to neighboring countries, where He learned the intricacies of business. His first trade journey occurred at the age of twelve, and over time, He started trading on His own.

In Makkah, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) earned great respect due to His high moral and ethical standards. He was a monotheist who believed in the oneness of Allah. His kindness, honesty, and commitment to keeping promises made Him well-known among the people. He disliked pride and lived a life of simplicity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was also instrumental in reviving the institution known as "Half-ul-Fudul" (Pledge of Virtue), which played a key role in bringing peace and unity among the tribes of Makkah. The members of Half-ul-Fudul pledged to uphold peace among the tribes, ensure the safety of travelers from robbers, assist the poor and needy, and protect the weak from oppression.

His noble character earned Him the title of As-Saadiq (The Truthful) and Al-Ameen (The Trustworthy) in Makkah. These titles reflected His honesty, reliability, and moral integrity, qualities that distinguished Him from others. As a youth, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) kept Himself away from the sinful and harmful habits that were common among His peers.

There is a story of a business transaction in which a trader named Abdul-ibn-Abi-Al Hamsar met Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the street. The trader had to leave in a hurry and asked the Prophet (PBUH) to wait for him, promising to return shortly. However, the trader forgot about the meeting and did not come back. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) patiently waited for three days to keep His promise. When the trader returned, he was deeply moved by the Prophet’s patience and commitment to His word.

At the age of 25, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was entrusted by a noble lady of the Quresh tribe, Hazrat Khadija bint Khuwaylid (R.A.), with goods to trade. He traveled to other cities and brought back the profits honestly. Impressed by His trustworthiness and character, Hazrat Khadija (R.A.) sent a marriage proposal to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through her close friend, Nafisa. After confirmation from His uncle, Abu Talib, the proposal was accepted. Hazrat Khadija had received proposals from many other distinguished men of Makkah, but she chose Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) because of His piety, excellent manners, honesty, and trustworthiness. At the time of their marriage, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was 25 years old, and Hazrat Khadija (R.A.) was 40 years old.