Introduction
The Middle East holds a special place in the history of divine guidance. It is the region where many prophets (peace be upon them) were sent by Allah (SWT). From Prophet Adam (AS) to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the region has seen the birth and mission of numerous messengers who brought divine messages to humanity. This raises an important question: Why did Allah choose this region to send most of His prophets?
In this article, we will explore the theological, historical, and geographical reasons behind this divine choice and understand the significance of the Middle East in the context of divine revelation.
1. Theological Perspective: Divine Wisdom and Purpose
In Islam, Allah’s wisdom (Hikmah) is perfect and all-encompassing. The sending of prophets is part of His divine plan to guide humanity toward righteousness, worship of the One true God, and moral uprightness.
Central Role of the Middle East: The region is considered the “centre” of divine guidance because Allah chose it to be the starting point for many prophets, and from it, the message of monotheism spread to the rest of the world.
Quranic Evidence: Allah states in the Quran:
“And We sent not a messenger except with the language of his people, to make (things) clear for them.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:4)
This indicates that prophets were sent in languages and regions familiar to their people, emphasizing the Middle East’s importance as a hub of divine communication.
Final Revelation:
The last messenger, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent to this region, emphasizing its importance as a hub for Islam’s final and universal message.
2. Historical and Geographical Significance
The Middle East is often called the “Cradle of Civilizations” because it was home to some of the earliest human societies, including the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Persians. This rich history has several implications:
Development of Complex Societies: These civilizations had advanced social, political, and religious systems, which made them receptive to or at least influential in the dissemination of spiritual truths.
Trade Routes and Communication: The region was a nexus of many major trade routes, such as the Silk Road and the Incense Route, facilitating the spread of ideas, cultures, and religions.
Quranic Reflection:
Allah mentions the importance of divine guidance reaching different nations:
“For every nation, we have appointed a (divine) law and a (prophetic) way. And if Allah had pleased, He would have made you a single community, but (He did so) to test you by what He has given you.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:48)
This verse highlights that divine guidance, and prophets were sent to various peoples and regions, including the Middle East.
Proximity to Neighbouring Regions:
The Middle East’s location made it easier for divine messages to reach Africa, Asia, and Europe, thus enabling the message of monotheism and righteousness to expand outward.
3. The Role of Prophets in Middle Eastern History
Many prophets mentioned in Islamic tradition and other Abrahamic faiths lived in or around the Middle East:
Prophet Adam (AS):
Considered the first human being and prophet, who descended in the region.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS):
Known as the “Friend of Allah,” he established the foundations of monotheism in Mecca and Palestine. The Quran states:
“Indeed, Ibrahim was a nation (alone), obedient to Allah, inclining toward truth, and he was not among those who associate others with Allah.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:120)
Prophet Musa (AS):
Led the Israelites out of Egypt, with the Exodus in the Levant. The Quran says:
“And We inspired to Musa (Moses): ‘Travel by night with My servants and strike for them a dry path through the sea; fear not, nor grieve.'” (Surah Ta-Ha 20:77)
Prophet Isa (Jesus, AS):
Born in Bethlehem, preached in the Levant. The Quran mentions:
“And We sent, following in their footsteps, Isa son of Maryam, confirming what came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, which was guidance and light.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:46)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
Born in Mecca, I received the final revelation on the Arabian Peninsula. Allah states:
“And We have not sent you (O Muhammad), except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:107)
This pattern underscores the region’s centrality in divine guidance.
4. The Region as a Divine Focal Point
The Middle East’s strategic importance made it an ideal location for the divine messengers:
Cultural and Religious Diversity:
The region was home to many different peoples and religions, making it a natural intersection for spiritual dialogue and reform.
Testing Ground:
The challenges faced by the prophets in this region helped establish enduring moral and spiritual lessons for humanity.
Preparation for Universal Message:
The region’s complex social fabric prepared the ground for Islam’s universal message, which Muhammad (PBUH) brought to humanity.
5. The Message of Islam: Universality and Continuity
While many prophets were sent to the Middle East, Islam teaches that divine guidance is meant for all humanity, regardless of region or ethnicity. The prophets, especially those in the Middle East, played a crucial role in establishing the monotheistic tradition that culminated with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), whose message is intended for everyone.
Quranic Assurance: Allah states:
“Indeed, this Quran guides to what is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that will have a great reward.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:9)
Conclusion
Allah (SWT) sent prophets to the Middle East based on divine wisdom, historical circumstances, and geographical significance. This region’s rich history, strategic location, and cultural diversity made it an ideal cradle for divine messages, which ultimately aimed to guide humanity toward righteousness, justice, and submission to the One True God.
Understanding this divine plan helps us appreciate the profound role the Middle East has played—and continues to play—in mankind’s spiritual journey.
Writer:
Dr. Fakhrul Islam Babu
President, Asian Club Limited, Hong Kong
President, Hong Kong Association of Naturalized Chinese Limited
General Secretary, China Bangladesh Friendship Center-CBFC