Mohammed
Mohammed (c. 570-632). The founder of Islam, known to his followers as ‘The Prophet’. He was born at Mecca and worked as a shepherd and caravan guide. From 595, when he married a rich widow, he was able to devote time to religious meditation. In about 616 he publicly declared that he was the prophet of God, having had a number of divine revelations. His teaching is contained in the Koran, the sacred book of Islam, which Muslims believe to be the definitive word of God. Owing to persecution, Mohammed and his new followers were forced to flee from Mecca to Medina in 622. The Islamic era and calendar are dated from the time of this flight, which is known as the Hegira. Mohammed defeated his opponents in several battles and returned to Mecca in 630 as the acknowledged prophet of God. He died and was buried at Medina.
