Dichotomies and controversies of the Orientalists Regarding the Lineage, Birth and Childhood of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Abstract

Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), the Prophet of Islam was sent by Allah Almighty with an unblemished character and sublime moral authority. He was protected from every misconduct and indecency that could damage his reputation. Not only he but his all ancestors were protected from falling in any depravity. His birth was accompanied by signs of good fortune, his childhood carried innocence and his youth proclaimed his excellence in character. Despite their claims of being unbiased, some orientalists had been partial in their account of the lineage, birth and childhood of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). However, their statements bear dichotomies and their views contradict with each other. This research article aims to highlight such controversies of the orientalists as are present in their narration of the family background, birth and childhood of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).