Why Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is Ranked at the Top of the 100 Most Influential Figures
It was a joyful surprise to see our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ranked first among the most influential people in human history. This list, famously compiled by Michael Hart, a non-Muslim historian, is not limited to those who were heroic or purely positive figures but rather recognizes those whose influence shaped human history. It is heartwarming to know that this list begins with none other than the most exemplary, inspiring, and heroic figure ever to walk the earth: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The news of our revered Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) being positioned as the foremost influential individual in the annals of humanity brought immense delight. Renowned historian Michael Hart, who isn't of the Islamic faith, meticulously crafted this catalog to encompass not only those who were heroically virtuous but also those whose impact shaped the course of human history. It fills our hearts with warmth to acknowledge that this distinguished compilation commences with none other than the most exemplary, awe-inspiring, and heroic personality to ever grace this planet: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Top of the 100 personalities.
Two Reasons for Ranking First
Michael Hart, the author of The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, shares two key reasons for placing Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at the very top. These reasons highlight both the depth and breadth of his influence on humanity, both religiously and secularly.
First Reason: A Unique Role in Establishing Islam
Michael Hart explains that the first reason for placing Muhammad (SAW) at the top is the unique and comprehensive role he played in the development of Islam. He notes:
“Muhammad played a far more important role in the development of Islam than Jesus did in the development of Christianity. While Jesus was responsible for the main ethical and moral precepts of Christianity, it was St. Paul who shaped much of Christian theology and was its principal proselytizer and the author of a large portion of the New Testament.”
when we talk about the top of the 100 personalities In contrast, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was the one who laid the foundation of Islam in all aspects. Not only did he deliver the message of Allah through the Quran, but he also established the theological, ethical, and practical dimensions of Islam. He taught the core principles of worship, compassion, justice, and social harmony, setting up a model of governance, spirituality, and community life that endures today. This complete, holistic role makes him distinct, as he was both the spiritual and temporal leader of his community.
Second Reason: A Leader of Hearts and Territories
Hart’s second reason emphasizes the Prophet’s role as both a religious guide and a political leader. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) led the early Muslim community, uniting diverse tribes, conquering territories, and, more importantly, winning over hearts. Hart highlights this as unique, pointing out that many historical events might have happened without certain leaders, but the spread of Islam through Arab conquests would not have happened without the leadership of Muhammad (SAW). Top of the 100 Influential personalities.
“Of many important historical events, one might say that they were inevitable and would have occurred even without the particular political leader who guided them. But this cannot be said of the Arab conquests. Nothing similar had occurred before the time of Prophet Muhammad, and it’s unlikely it would have without him. Unlike other conquests, the Arab conquests, under Prophet Muhammad, established lasting unity across vast lands.”
These conquests didn’t merely expand territories but united people from Iraq to Morocco, bonding them not only through Islam but also through Arabic language, culture, and shared history. The Quran’s central role, preserved in Arabic, prevented dialects from diverging into mutually unintelligible languages. Hart acknowledges that no other leader combined such religious devotion and political success in a way that endures to this day.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW): The Most Influential Figure in Human History
According to Hart, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) stands out because his influence extends from the seventh century to our modern world, securing his place firmly at the top of The 100 most influential figures. Islam’s values, culture, and Arabic language continue to shape societies and remain a powerful force globally. Hart concludes that this blend of secular and spiritual influence places Prophet Muhammad (SAW) not only as a transformative leader but as the ultimate figure at the top of The 100 most influential people in human history.
Our Love and Duty as His Followers
If a non-Muslim scholar can recognize and appreciate the unparalleled legacy of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), then surely, as Muslims, we have an even greater reason to love, honour, and obey him. His teachings inspire compassion, justice, and resilience in hardship. Allah reminds us of His favor upon the Prophet (SAW):
“Did We not expand for you, [O Muhammad], your breast? And We removed from you your burden, Which had weighed upon your back, And raised high for you your repute. For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. So when you have finished [your duties], then stand up [for worship]. And to your Lord direct [your] longing.”
— (Quran, Surah Ash-Sharh 94:1-8)
Let us, as Ummah, strive to follow his teachings with devotion and gratitude. Let his life be our guiding light, as we work to bring his message of peace, justice, and unity to our communities.
In conclusion, the recognition of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at the top of The 100 list of the most influential figures is a testament to his unparalleled impact on both spiritual and worldly domains. His role as a religious leader, combined with his ability to unite and inspire diverse communities, has left an enduring legacy that resonates across centuries.
Being ranked at the top of The 100 is not merely an acknowledgment of historical influence but an affirmation of his unique role in shaping moral, social, and cultural ideals. As his followers, it is our privilege and responsibility to carry forward his teachings and uphold the values he embodies. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) remains at the top of The 100 not only in influence but in the hearts of millions who continue to honour and learn from his life.