The Claimed Miracles of Muhammad and the Quranic Evidence

The longstanding debate about the miracles of Muhammad centers around the claims presented in both the Quran and Hadiths. This article explores the historical and textual contexts to determine the basis for these assertions and examines the evidence from the Quran. While some argue for the legitimacy of the miracles attributed to Muhammad, others contest these claims, pointing to relevant verses in the Quran that seem to refute such assertions.

Miracles in Muhammad According to the Hadiths

Although the Quran does not explicitly mention miracles performed by Muhammad, some followers have attributed various miracles to him through the collection of Hadiths, which are reports of the sayings and actions of Muhammad. These Hadiths suggest that Muhammad performed miracles, even though the Quran itself does not confirm these claims. It is claimed that after his death, his followers may have embellished his persona to enhance his status and legitimacy.

Divine Presence: A "Miracle" in the Clouds

One of the counter-arguments presented is the mere linguistic and symbolic presence of Muhammad's name '????' (Muhammad) appearing in the clouds. While this can be seen as a mystical or poetic expression, it falls short of being a physical or visible miracle. Critics argue that this cannot be a genuine miracle, as such a display requires divine intervention, which the Quran appears to deny.

The Lack of Direct References to Miracles in the Qur'an

Throughout the Quran, there are several passages that might be interpreted to question the nature of Muhammad's role as a prophet. For instance, in the context of Muhammad's response to a challenge for a miracle:

“O you who have been given the Scripture, believe in what I have revealed confirming what is (already) with you. And do not be the first to apply deception. And do not say about what you have not [completely] known. Indeed, you (Muhammad) follow nothing but speculation. And indeed, you do nothing but guess.” (Quran 5:41)

Moreover, in ', Muhammad himself states:

"I am nothing but a human being like you. I have been inspired by my Lord to inform you of a message from Him, and I am the first of the messengers to convey it to you.” (Quran 18:110)

This statement directly implies that Muhammad is not a god or a source of divine powers. Furthermore, in , Muhammad himself acknowledges the impossibility of performing a miracle:

“Or do they say, 'He has invented against Allah a lie or has presumptuously attributed to Him something that He has not given Him'? Say, 'Then bring me a sign or a proof like those to which the messengers were accustomed, if I should be lying.’ (Quran 17:90-94)

These verses, among others, suggest that Muhammad specifically refutes the idea of being able to perform miracles.

Muhammad's Own Assertions and Descriptions

Based on the Quranic texts, Muhammad acknowledges the limitations of his prophetic role:

“Say: 'I do not have the power to benefit or harm myself except as Allah wills.’ (Quran 7:188)

Furthermore, in ', Muhammad is described as:

"I do not say to you, 'I have the angels [as my treasures]' and I do not know the future nor do I say to you, 'Surely I am an angel’ nor do I say to you, 'Surely I do not forget [anything].' But I follow the inspiration being inspired. (Quran 6:50)

These statements indicate that Muhammad was not claiming divine powers or omniscience. He consistently emphasizes his humanity and dependence on divine guidance.

Conclusion and Relevance

The debates surrounding the claimed miracles of Muhammad and the historical context of the Quran lead us to conclude that the Quran portrays Muhammad as a human messenger with limited abilities. The lack of direct references to miracles and the emphasis on human limitations are significant. As such, the argument against the possibility of Muhammad performing miracles can be substantiated by the Quranic evidence, which aligns with the Islamic belief in a human Prophet who was guided by God.

Keywords: Miracles in Islam, Qur'anic Verses on Prophets, Muhammad's Role as a Prophet