WHY DID MANY PEOPLE IN MECCA REJECT MUHAMMAD'S IDEAS AT FIRST?
Many people in Mecca initially rejected Muhammad's ideas for various reasons. Understanding why requires some historical context. Here's how you can approach finding an answer:
1. Historical Context: Begin by exploring the context of Mecca during Muhammad's time. Understand the religious, social, and political environment. Consider factors such as the predominant religion, tribal divisions, and the economic importance of Mecca as a religious pilgrimage center.
2. Muhammad's Message: Investigate Muhammad's ideas and message. Learn about the core tenets of Islam, including the concepts of monotheism, social justice, and the rejection of idols. Understand how Muhammad's teachings challenged the prevalent beliefs and practices in Mecca.
3. Reaction from the Quraysh: Discover the response of the Quraysh, Muhammad's tribe and the ruling elite of Mecca. Research their reasons for rejecting Muhammad's message. Look into their political and economic interests and how they may have perceived Muhammad's ideas as a threat.
4. Social Dynamics: Consider the societal dynamics of Mecca at the time. Explore how Muhammad's call for equality and justice might have challenged the established social order, including the hierarchy and privileges enjoyed by certain groups. Investigate whether some people resisted change due to fear of losing their status or influence.
5. Opposition from Religious Leaders: Investigate the opposition Muhammad faced from the religious leaders and guardians of the Kaaba, the central religious site in Mecca. Find out how Muhammad's teachings threatened their religious authority and control over the existing pilgrimage practices.
6. Personal Interests: Explore how individuals' personal interests might have influenced their rejection of Muhammad's ideas. Some may have been resistant to changing their lifestyles or rejected Muhammad's claim of being a prophet based on personal beliefs or biases.
By considering historical context, Muhammad's message, the reaction of the Quraysh, social dynamics, opposition from religious leaders, and personal interests, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of why many people in Mecca initially rejected Muhammad's ideas.
Read about the Opposition in this article.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad#Muhammad_in_Mecca