What is a Prophet in Islam? Lessons from Adam (AS) to Muhammad (PBUH)

Prophets in Islam hold a special place as the chosen messengers of God (Allah), sent to guide humanity. From Adam (AS), the first human, to Muhammad (PBUH), the final prophet, Islam recognizes a long line of prophets who delivered divine messages to different nations and communities.

But why did God send prophets? How do they connect past civilizations with modern times? And why is their message still relevant in 2025, in an era dominated by technology, artificial intelligence, and shifting ideologies?

This blog explores the role, significance, and enduring impact of prophets in Islam, revealing why their guidance remains essential even today.

What is a Prophet in Islam?

A prophet (Nabi) in Islam is a human chosen by Allah to convey His message and lead people toward righteousness. Some prophets were also given scriptures and laws, known as messengers (Rasul).

The Qur’an states:

“And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], ‘Worship Allah and avoid false gods.’” (Qur’an 16:36)

This means that no community was left without divine guidance, proving that Islamic teachings are universal and not limited to one nation or ethnicity.

How Many Prophets Were Sent?

Islam teaches that Allah sent 124,000 prophets throughout history, but only 25 are mentioned in the Qur’an by name.

Some of the Most Important Prophets in Islam:

Prophet	Significance
Adam (AS)	The first human and prophet, father of humanity
Noah (AS)	Warned his people for 950 years before the Great Flood
Abraham (AS)	Known as the father of monotheism
Moses (AS)	Delivered the Torah and led the Israelites to freedom
Jesus (AS)	Performed miracles and foretold the coming of Muhammad (PBUH)
Muhammad (PBUH)	The final prophet, sent as a mercy to all of humanity

Unlike in other religious traditions, Muslims do not consider prophets divine. They were humans chosen by Allah with a special mission but remained fully human—they did not possess god-like powers.

The Three Main Roles of Prophets in Islam

Prophets were sent with specific missions and responsibilities that shaped human history.

1. Conveying the Message of God

The primary role of every prophet was to deliver the message of monotheism (Tawhid)—the belief in one true God (Allah).

For example:
✔ Prophet Noah (AS) urged his people to worship Allah alone, but they rejected him.
✔ Prophet Moses (AS) confronted Pharaoh to free the oppressed Israelites.
✔ Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ended idolatry in Arabia and restored true monotheism.

The Qur’an confirms this:

“And We did not send any messenger before you but We revealed to him: ‘There is no deity except Me, so worship Me.'” (Qur’an 21:25)

Even in 2025, where people often idolize wealth, fame, and technology, the prophets’ message remains relevant—only God deserves worship, not material success or artificial intelligence.

2. Teaching Morality and Justice

Prophets were not just religious leaders; they were moral guides who fought against:
🚫 Corruption
🚫 Oppression
🚫 Social injustice

For instance:
✔ Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) condemned fraudulent trade and economic corruption.
✔ Prophet David (AS) ruled with justice and wisdom.
✔ Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized honesty, kindness, and equality.

“We sent Our messengers with clear proofs and sent down with them the Scripture and the Balance that the people may maintain justice.” (Qur’an 57:25)

In today’s world of political corruption and social inequality, the teachings of the prophets offer a blueprint for justice and fairness.

3. Serving as Role Models for Humanity

Prophets were not just teachers; they lived by the principles they preached. Their character and conduct serve as examples for all people, regardless of time or place.

Some of the greatest qualities of the prophets include:
✔ Patience – Prophet Job (AS) endured severe hardship without losing faith.
✔ Forgiveness – Prophet Joseph (AS) forgave his brothers despite their betrayal.
✔ Mercy – Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed compassion even to his enemies.

“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad), you have an excellent example for those who hope in Allah and the Last Day.” (Qur’an 33:21)

At a time when social media influencers and celebrities shape public behavior, the prophets remain the ultimate role models for those seeking true moral guidance.

The Last and Final Prophet: Muhammad (PBUH)

Islam teaches that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last messenger and that no new prophets will come after him.

“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the last of the prophets.” (Qur’an 33:40)

Why does this matter?
✅ It confirms that Islam is the final divine message.
✅ It prevents false claims of new prophets.
✅ It emphasizes that the Qur’an is the ultimate guidance for all time.

Even in 2025, Prophet Muhammad’s leadership, ethics, and teachings remain unmatched and continue to influence billions of people worldwide.

Prophets and the Future

As the world moves deeper into technology-driven change, some question whether religion and prophets are still relevant. However, their messages remain timeless and necessary in modern society.

1. Spiritual Crisis and Atheism

With secularism, atheism, and AI-driven ideologies on the rise, many people struggle to find purpose and meaning. The prophets remind us that:
✔ Life has a divine purpose beyond material success.
✔ True peace comes from submission to God, not worldly distractions.
✔ Faith is essential for inner fulfillment.

2. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

As AI begins to replace human decision-making, prophets remind us that:
✔ Technology should serve humanity, not control it.
✔ Human intelligence is limited, but divine wisdom is eternal.
✔ Moral values must be upheld even in an AI-dominated world.

3. Social Justice and Global Conflicts

In a time of wars, economic inequality, and racial tensions, the prophetic teachings offer a universal framework for peace and justice.

The Qur’an emphasizes unity and fairness:

“O mankind, We have created you from male and female and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another. Verily, the most honored among you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.” (Qur’an 49:13)

Conclusion

Prophets in Islam were more than just historical figures—they were leaders, reformers, and role models whose teachings still shape modern life.

✔ They called for the worship of one God (Tawhid).
✔ They promoted justice, kindness, and ethical living.
✔ They provided guidance for both individual and societal challenges.

Even in 2025, their messages remain essential in navigating modern challenges—from AI ethics to moral crises and social justice.

Are we willing to learn from their wisdom and apply it in our lives today?

FAQs

1. Why did God send so many prophets?

Allah sent different prophets to different nations to ensure everyone received guidance.

2. Do Muslims believe in Jesus (AS)?

Yes! Jesus (AS) is a revered prophet in Islam, but not as the son of God.

3. Why is Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called the last prophet?

Islam teaches that no new prophets will come after him, and his message is final and universal.