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Michael Hart's book The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History is a well-known attempt to rank historical figures according to their influence on human civilization. Hart placed Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at number one, explaining that his choice was based on the Prophet's extraordinary and lasting influence across religious, social, political and cultural spheres.

One of the major reasons for the ranking is the Prophet's profound religious influence. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ conveyed the message of Islam, a monotheistic faith centred on the worship of one God, Allah. The Qur'an revealed to him remains the central scripture of Islam, while his teachings and example continue to guide Muslims across the world.

Hart also highlighted the Prophet's role as a social and political leader. Muhammad ﷺ united communities and tribes in Arabia and established a functioning society in Madinah. His leadership combined religious guidance with governance, community building, justice and consultation, creating a model that influenced the development of Islamic civilization.

His influence also extended to law, ethics and culture. The Qur'an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ became foundational sources for Islamic teachings and jurisprudence. His teachings addressed matters including charity, family life, education, justice, social responsibility and the treatment of others, shaping the values and institutions of Muslim societies for centuries.

Another important factor was the global and enduring nature of his influence. Within decades of his death, Islam had spread far beyond the Arabian Peninsula into parts of Africa, Asia and Europe. Today, Muslims from different ethnicities, languages and cultures continue to follow the Prophet's teachings more than 1,400 years after his lifetime.

Hart considered the combination of spiritual and practical leadership particularly significant. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ served as a religious teacher, community leader, statesman, lawgiver and military leader. This combination enabled him to bring about profound changes in the society in which he lived, with effects that continued long after his death.

Michael Hart's decision to place Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at the top of his historical ranking therefore reflected his assessment of the Prophet's broad and lasting impact on religion, society, politics, law and culture. For Muslims, however, his status goes beyond historical influence: he is the final Messenger of Allah and an example to be followed. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his family, his companions and all those who follow his guidance until the Last Day. Ameen.