Muhammad faced significant opposition in Mecca primarily because his message directly challenged the city's established polytheistic beliefs and the social structure tied to them. His teachings were seen as a threat to the traditional way of life and the economic interests linked to the Kaaba's idols.
Roots of the Conflict in Mecca
The conflict between Muhammad and the ruling elite of Mecca stemmed from fundamental disagreements over religion and authority. Muhammad's declaration of monotheism (belief in one God, Allah) stood in stark contrast to the Meccans' polytheism and idol worship, which was deeply ingrained in their culture and economy.
Key Reasons for Meccan Opposition
The opposition began and escalated due to specific challenges posed by Muhammad's message and the growth of his following:
- Criticism of Traditional Beliefs and Ancestors: According to Ibn Sa'd, a major source on early Islamic history, the opposition in Mecca began when Muhammad started delivering verses that "spoke shamefully of the idols [the Meccans] worshiped other than [Allah] and mentioned the perdition of their fathers who died in disbelief." This attack on their deities and revered ancestors was a direct challenge to their religious identity and lineage.
- Threat to the Social and Economic Order: Mecca's prominence was tied to its status as a religious center with the Kaaba housing numerous idols. Pilgrim traffic generated significant wealth for the city's leaders. Muhammad's call to abandon idols threatened this established religious tourism and the power base of the ruling Quraysh tribe.
- Growing Influence of Followers: As Muhammad gained followers, they represented a new social group challenging the existing hierarchies. According to Watt, as Muhammad's followers gained traction in Mecca, they posed a new,... (The reference provided is incomplete here, but implies they posed a new challenge or threat to the existing order).
This fundamental clash of beliefs and the resulting social and economic disruption were the primary reasons why Muhammad and his followers faced such intense opposition in Mecca, eventually leading to their migration (Hijra) to Medina.
Impact of the Opposition
The opposition was not merely verbal. It involved:
- Persecution and harassment of Muhammad and his followers.
- Economic boycotts against the Muslim community.
- Attempts to pressure or eliminate Muhammad.
This sustained resistance highlighted the deep-seated nature of the Meccans' attachment to their traditions and their fear of the changes Muhammad's message could bring.
