Prophet Muhammad SAW is recognized as the most influential figure in human history, even by non-Muslims. His success in building a civil society in Madinah stemmed from a clear mission as a mercy to the universe. All residents, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, lived peacefully and cooperated under his leadership.
Prophet Muhammad SAW ranks first in Michael H. Hart's book, The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, as the most influential figure in the world. This article discusses the keys to his success, particularly two main factors, in building a civil society in Madinah.
First, the clarity of Rasulullah SAW's mission to spread mercy, safety, and peace for humanity and the universe. This is affirmed in the Quran: "And We have not sent you (Muhammad), except as a mercy to the worlds" (QS. Al-Anbiya: 107). Under the shade of Islamic teachings in Madinah, all people—Muslim and non-Muslim—felt peaceful and serene. Rasulullah SAW, as head of state, greatly protected them, so differences in faith did not cause conflict.
The residents of Madinah needed each other and worked together shoulder-to-shoulder to build economic strength, defense, and security. They united against enemy attacks, whether from within or outside, with the main enemies being injustice and oppression. The Charter of Madinah, considered the world's first written constitution—long before the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948—records this unity through its dictums and articles, fostering shared responsibilities.
This success created a harmonious society where cross-faith collaboration formed the main foundation for building the state of Madinah at that time.