Muhammad
How can Christians criticize Muhammad for not making a will when he prescribed it for his followers?
Quick answer
While Muhammad did prescribe making wills, he did not follow this command himself, which raises questions about his authority. Furthermore, the Quranic verses indicate that prophets do have heirs, contradicting Muhammad's claim that they do not.
Full argument
Muhammad's failure to make a will, despite prescribing it for his followers, presents a significant inconsistency in his teachings. The Hadiths clearly show that he did not leave a will, and his reasoning—that prophets do not have heirs—contradicts the Quranic evidence that prophets like Zakariya and David had heirs. In fact, the Quran explicitly states that it is a duty for the righteous to write a will for their relatives, which further emphasizes the expectation of leaving a legacy. This inconsistency raises questions about the reliability of Muhammad's teachings and his role as a prophet, as true prophets would be expected to adhere to the principles they teach. Additionally, the Shiite interpretation aligns with the understanding that it is obligatory for Muslims to leave a will, further highlighting the discrepancy in Muhammad's actions versus his teachings.
Key verses
S. 2:180quran
It is decreed that when death approaches, you shall write a will for the benefit of the parents and relatives, equitably. This is a duty upon the righteous.
S. 19:6quran
So give me an heir as from Thyself, One that will truly inherit me, and inherit the posterity of Jacob.
S. 27:16quran
And Solomon was David's heir.
Related articles
More in Muhammad
- Muhammad's marriage to Aisha at a young age is a cultural norm and should not be judged by modern standards.
- Why did Muhammad not perform any miracles like other prophets if he was truly a messenger of God?
- Isn't the Islamic doctrine of atonement superior because it emphasizes personal responsibility and rejects the concept of original sin?
- The Shahadah should only declare the oneness of Allah without mentioning Muhammad, as the Quran does not require the latter.
- The blessings upon Ishmael in Genesis confirm the prophethood of Muhammad since he is the only prophet descended from him.