The Makkahs were opposed to Muhammad (SAW) because he preached primarily against _____

Answer Details

The Makkans were opposed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) primarily because he preached against idolatry and exploitation. Before the advent of Islam in Arabia, the people of Makkah followed a polytheistic religion, and the Ka'aba, a sacred site in Makkah, housed numerous idols worshipped by the people. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) preached against idolatry and called for the worship of only one God, Allah. His message challenged the core beliefs and practices of the Makkans, who had a vested interest in maintaining the existing religious practices that brought in economic benefits through pilgrimage and trade. Furthermore, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) also preached against the exploitation of the poor and the weak in the society, which was rampant in the pre-Islamic Arab society. The wealthy elite of Makkah were among those who were guilty of such practices, and they saw the Prophet's message as a threat to their power and wealth. Thus, the Makkans were opposed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) because his message of monotheism and social justice threatened their religious and economic interests. While Islam also prohibits murder, suicide, drinking, smoking, music, and dancing in certain contexts, it was primarily the challenge to the core beliefs and practices of the Makkans that led to their opposition to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the early Muslim community.