Ep 1. The Seeker

In the first episode of The Life of Muhammad, titled "The Seeker," we are introduced to the early life of the prophet Muhammad. The episode begins with a brief overview of the historical and religious context of the time in which he lived.

We learn that Muhammad was born in Mecca in 570 CE to a prominent family of traders. His father died before he was born, and his mother passed away when he was just six years old. This left him in the care of his grandfather and later his uncle, who taught him the ways of trading and the customs of the Arabian people.

As a young adult, Muhammad became known for his honesty and integrity in business dealings, earning him the nickname "Al-Amin," or "the trustworthy." However, he was also known for his introspection and for seeking a deeper understanding of the world around him. He often withdrew to a cave in the mountains to contemplate life and the nature of God.

It was during one of these retreats that Muhammad received his first revelation from God through the angel Gabriel. The experience was overwhelming, and Muhammad was initially frightened and unsure of what to do. But with the support of his wife Khadija and his cousin Ali, he began to spread the message of Islam to those around him.

The episode also touches on the societal and political climate of Mecca at the time. The city was a bustling commercial center, with a diverse population of polytheistic Arabs and monotheistic Christians and Jews. The ruling class, however, were staunchly opposed to Muhammad's message and saw it as a threat to their power and influence.

Despite this opposition, Muhammad continued to preach the message of monotheism and social justice, attracting a small group of dedicated followers who formed the early Muslim community. This group faced persecution and violence from the Meccan leaders, eventually leading them to flee the city for the safety of Medina.

Overall, "The Seeker" sets the stage for the rest of the series, providing a glimpse into the life and character of Muhammad before he became a prophet and the tumultuous beginnings of the Muslim community. The episode offers a balanced and informative account of the historical context of the time, as well as the spiritual and personal journey of one of the most influential figures in human history.