Muhammad (or Mohammed or Mahomet) (c. 570–632)

Founder of Islam, born in Mecca on the Arabian peninsula. In about 616 he began to preach the worship of one God, who allegedly revealed to him the words of the Koran (it was later written down by his followers) through the angel Jibra'el (Gabriel). Muhammad fled from persecution to the town now known as Medina in 622: the flight, Hijrah or Hegira, marks the beginning of the Islamic era.

Muhammad was originally a shepherd and trader. He married Khadija, a widow, in 595, spent time in meditation, and received his first revelation in 610. The series of revelations continued throughout his life. At first he doubted their divine origin but later he began to teach others, who wrote down the words of his revelations; they were collected after his death to form the Koran.

The move to Medina resulted in the first Islamic community, which for many years fought battles against fierce opposition from Mecca and from neighbouring tribes. In 630 the Muslim army defeated that of Mecca and the city came under Muslim rule. By the time of Muhammad's death in 632, Islam had spread throughout the Arabian peninsula. After his death, the leadership of the Muslims was disputed.

Muslims believe that Muhammad was the final prophet, although they recognize other, earlier prophets, including Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isa (Jesus). Muhammad is not worshipped, but honoured by the words ‘Peace be upon him’ whenever Muslims mention his name.