MOHAMMED, known as the Prophet of Islam, was born of the esteemed Qoreish tribes in Mecca on the 20th of April. The chief occupation of his tribe was trade The Islamic Prophet led a life of simplicity and poverty. His house, built of mud walls and thatched with date-palm leaves, often remained dark for want of oil for the lamp. At times he did not even have the flour with which to prepare bread Mohammed's father was Abdullah. He died while returning from a journey to Medina. His mother died six years later, leaving Mohammed in the care of his uncle, Abu Talib. His mother's name was Amna Mohammed was illiterate but from an early age he showed a remarkable aptitude for concentration. He was a serious child and never took part in pranks or frolic When he grew up he earned a great reputation for his honesty and integrity. He always fulfilled his promises. Because he was extremely trustworthy, he became known as Al-Amin One day, Mohammed accompanied his uncle to Syria on business. On the journey he met Bahera, a Christian monk, who immediately recognized in the young boy a future prophet When Mohammed was twenty-five years old he married Khadija, a rich widow of Mecca, then forty years of age. She was a gentle woman of spotless character