On the Footsteps of the Prophet, written by Adem Apak, Ahmet Önkal, and Bünyamin Erul, is a biographical study that examines the life, social role, and historical influence of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) in the English language. The book aims to depict both the personal life of the Islamic Prophet and the social, cultural, and religious environment in which he lived. Published by the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı), the work is intended especially for international readers or researchers who prefer English-language material.

Subject

The book presents the life of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) in a chronological structure. It begins with his birth, childhood, youth, and pre-prophetic period, and continues through his prophetic mission, which is framed by political, social, and religious developments.

The Meccan period covers the early life of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.), his engagement in trade, his practice of seclusion in the Cave of Hira, and his first revelation. During this period, the main messages of Islam—monotheism (tawhid), moral responsibility, and social justice—are emphasized. The resistance of the Quraysh, the social and economic sanctions imposed on Muslims, episodes of persecution, and the boycott process are examined in detail. Events such as the migration to Abyssinia and the invitation to Ta’if are also part of this phase.

The Hijra (migration) is presented as a critical turning point in its historical and societal context. With the migration to Medina, the Islamic community gained an institutional structure, and Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) assumed the role not only of a religious leader but also of a head of state. The Medinan period is examined in relation to the institutionalization of the Muslim community. The Constitution of Medina is analyzed as one of the first constitutional documents, regulating coexistence among religious and ethnic groups. The book elaborates on Prophet Muhammad’s (s.a.w.) efforts to establish social order, ensure justice, and respond to external threats. Major military events such as the Battles of Badr, Uhud, and the Trench are analyzed strategically and diplomatically.

Furthermore, the book addresses Prophet Muhammad’s (s.a.w.) internal governance practices, social relations, family structure, legal understanding, and reforms. Events such as the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, the Conquest of Mecca, and the Farewell Sermon are discussed as part of the final transformation of the Islamic society. The book concludes with the death of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.), followed by an assessment of the immediate reactions within the Muslim community, the emergence of the caliphate, and the role of the Companions (Sahaba) from a historical perspective.

Themes

Biography:

The life of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) is narrated through historical events based on classical Sīrah sources. A structured biography is provided, encompassing his personal, familial, and societal roles.

Social Transformation and the Spread of the Message:

The interaction with Meccan society, the dissemination of the message based on justice, equality, and monotheism, and turning points such as opposition, boycott, and migration are explored.

Institutional Structure and the Medinan Period:

The formation of the Islamic political and social order in Medina, constitutional developments (e.g., the Medina Charter), and the emergence of political authority are analyzed.

Wars and Defense Strategies:

Key battles such as Badr, Uhud, and the Trench are discussed in terms of the Prophet’s (s.a.w.) strategic decisions, peace initiatives, and defense policy.

Moral Guidance and Ethical Principles:

The Prophet’s (s.a.w.) personal example and his ethical teachings to society, especially values such as justice, mercy, and honesty, are presented as core elements.

Death and Aftermath:

The Prophet’s (s.a.w.) death and the ensuing social developments, the transition to the caliphate, and the early role of the Companions are examined in a historical framework.