The childhood of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was marked by simplicity and greatness. Born in Mecca in 570 CE, his father passed away before his birth, and his mother, Amina, passed away when he was just six years old. For some time, he was cared for by Halima Sa’diyah in the desert, after which he lived with his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, and then his uncle Abu Talib took care of him.
‘Imam abu nuaim said in dalail un nabwa’
Even in his early years, signs of prophethood were evident on his face. When he was two years old, Halima (may Allah be pleased with her) was taking him to Mecca, and along the way, they met some people near Abyssinia (Habasha). Upon seeing the face of the Prophet, they were struck by his beauty and exclaimed, “By God, this is the Prophet of Allah!”{dalail un nabwa}
Despite the difficulties he faced in his childhood, people began calling him “Al-Amin” (the trustworthy) due to his honesty and kindness. As a child, he herded sheep, which taught him patience and responsibility. Later, he traveled with his uncle on trading journeys, where some people recognized signs of his future prophethood. His simple yet dignified childhood was a preparation for his prophethood.
This childhood event of yours is also very famous, and its mention here seems appropriate.
The event of “Shaq-e-Sadr” (the splitting of the chest) occurred during the childhood of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ while he was in the care of his foster mother, Halima Saadia (رضي الله عنها). Two angels appeared, opened his chest, removed his heart, cleansed it, and took out a small black spot, symbolizing the removal of any influence from Shaytan (Satan). This act was meant to spiritually purify the Prophet ﷺ, preparing him for his future role as Allah’s Messenger.
This miraculous event highlights the special divine protection and preparation Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received even in his early years, emphasizing his purity and readiness for prophethood.