What is called Nabuwa (Prophecy)? The Third Pillar of Usool-e-Deen in Shia Islam
Third Usool-e-Deen or Usul-e-Deen of Shia Islam
Nabuwat (Prophethood): The third basic pillar of the Usool-e-Deen is Nabuwat (Prophethood) in Shia Islam. Prophethood comes from the word prophet, which means a messenger. Allah Almighty has sent one hundred and twenty-four thousand prophets to guide mankind, including messengers, i.e., those to whom the Book was revealed. Every person should believe in all the prophets and the final prophethood or messenger, i.e., Hazrat Muhammad S.A.W., as the last prophet, and that no prophet will come after him, and in the heavenly books. If someone denies the prophethood of any prophet, then he is outside the scope of Islam; we cannot call him a Muslim. Therefore, it is necessary to have firm faith in all the prophets and messengers (to whom the heavenly Book was revealed), and it is part of the religion.
Importance of Nabuwat (Prophethood) in Islam
Nabuwat (Prophethood) is one of the most important principles of Islam, representing Allah’s mercy and guidance for humanity. Through Prophets, Allah delivers His message, laws, and teachings to mankind, ensuring that people remain on the straight path. The importance of Nabuwat lies in its role as a bridge between the Creator and creation, providing spiritual, moral, and practical guidance for life. Without Nabuwat, humanity would be lost in ignorance and confusion. Prophets not only conveyed divine revelations but also lived as perfect role models, showing how to implement Allah’s commands in daily life. From Prophet Adam (AS) to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), every Prophet emphasized justice, faith, and worship of the one true God. Belief in Nabuwat (Prophethood) strengthens faith, unites the Muslim community, and reminds us that following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is essential for success in this world and the Hereafter.
Purpose of Nabuwat (Prophethood) in Islam
The purpose of Nabuwat (Prophethood) is to guide humanity towards the worship of one true God, Allah, and to provide divine laws for living a righteous life. Through Nabuwat, Allah sends chosen Prophets to deliver His message, warn people against sin, and lead them to the path of truth and justice. Another key purpose of Nabuwat (Prophethood) is to establish Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) and remove ignorance, corruption, and idolatry. Prophets not only conveyed revelations but also served as perfect role models, showing how to live by faith, morality, and justice. The final purpose of Nabuwat was completed with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Seal of the Prophets, whose message remains universal and eternal for all mankind.