The Message

The Message

Year: 1976

Runtime: 206 mins

Language: Arabic

Director: Moustapha Akkad

DramaHistoryFaith and religionHistorical battles and epic heroismReligious faith sin and forgiveness

Set in sixth‑century Mecca, the film follows Prophet Muhammad as he receives his first divine revelation and, three years later, publicly declares his mission as God’s messenger. He confronts opposition from Meccan rulers Abu Sufyan and his wife Hind, as his early followers endure hunting, torture and exile, yet remain steadfast to Islam.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Message (1976)

Trace every key event in The Message (1976) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Muhammad sends invitations to accept Islam to world rulers

The film opens with Muhammad sending formal invitations to embrace Islam to the rulers: Heraclius of the Byzantines, Muqawqis of Alexandria, and Kisra of the Sasanian Empire. The move signals Islam's intention to reach beyond Mecca. These outreach efforts frame the religious movement as a global message from the start.

Early 7th century CE Courts of Heraclius, Muqawqis, and Kisra
2

Gabriel's visitation and command to spread Quran

The Prophet Muhammad is visited by the angel Gabriel, who delivers the message to begin revealing and spreading the Quran. Muhammad is deeply shaken by the encounter, realizing he has a divine mandate to proclaim the faith. This moment marks the awakening of his prophetic mission.

Early Meccan period Mecca
3

Early converts in Mecca

A small number of Meccans begin to convert to Islam, planting the seed of a new religious community. They face skepticism and pressure from local authorities who view the message as a threat. Despite opposition, these early believers persevere and lay the groundwork for the community's growth.

Early Meccan period Mecca
4

Persecution and confiscation of possessions

Muslim followers are hunted and their possessions confiscated as Meccan leaders intensify their opposition. Muhammad and his companions are forced to flee to protect themselves and their families. The community's endurance under persecution foreshadows the forthcoming migration.

Early Meccan period Mecca
5

Followers seek refuge in Abyssinia

Some Muslims seek refuge in Abyssinia under the protection of the Christian king, finding safety from the Meccan oppression. The king's hospitality provides a crucial sanctuary for the fledgling faith. This exodus demonstrates early Muslims' willingness to seek shelter beyond their homeland.

Pre-Hijra period Abyssinia (Ethiopia)
6

Migration to Medina and founding the Quba Mosque

The believers head north to Medina, where they are warmly welcomed and establish the first mosque, the Quba Mosque. The move shifts the community from persecution to organized living in a city that will become Islam's new center. They begin to form a structured community with communal prayer spaces.

Post Hijra Medina
7

Market rumors and permission to act

Muhammad learns that Muslim possessions are being sold in Mecca's market, illustrating economic coercion against the followers. While he sometimes pursues peace, he also receives permission to take military action when necessary. This period leads into the first conflicts and battles.

Meccan period Mecca
8

Battle of Badr

The Muslims achieve a decisive victory at the Battle of Badr, boosting morale and legitimacy of the new community. The victory signals divine favor and the strengthening of their position in Medina. Mecca is pushed back as the fledgling force demonstrates growing strength.

Medina period Badr (near Medina)
9

Battle of Uhud

In the Battle of Uhud, the Meccans return with a larger army and execute a tactic that catches the Muslims off guard. Hamza, one of Muhammad's leading uncles, is killed in the fighting. The Muslims' initial success collapses as discipline falters and a rear attack turns the tide.

Medina period Mount Uhud, near Medina
10

Ten-year truce

A ten-year truce is concluded between the Meccans and Muslims, creating a fragile pause in hostilities. For a period, both sides refrain from large-scale battles while tensions simmer. The pact temporarily redirects conflict and reshapes regional power dynamics.

Medina period Medina
11

Khalid ibn Walid converts

Khalid ibn Walid, a famed Meccan general who had killed many Muslims, converts to Islam. His change in allegiance strengthens the Muslim cause and signals shifting loyalties in the region. The conversion broadens the scope of Muslim resistance and resilience.

Late Meccan period Arabia (Mecca/Medina region)
12

Night raids and Abu Sufyan's Medina visit

Night raids on Muslim camps fuel suspicions that Meccans are breaking the truce. Abu Sufyan travels to Medina seeking protection and arguing that robbers, not his people, violated the pact. The Muslims refuse him an audience, maintaining the resolve to confront those who broke faith.

Medina period Medina
13

Conquest of Mecca — eve of attack and surrender

On the eve of the assault, Abu Sufyan comes to Medina seeking a deal, but the Muslims stand firm and the Meccans are unable to resist. Mecca falls into Muslim hands without bloodshed, marking a dramatic turning point in the conquest. The surrender reshapes control of the region and the future of the Arabian Peninsula.

Conquest of Mecca Mecca
14

Destruction of idols and first adhan

With Mecca under Muslim control, the pagan idols inside the Kaaba are destroyed. Bilal ibn Rabah calls the adhan from the Kaaba, symbolizing the official proclamation of Islam within the city. The city experiences a profound religious reorientation as the monotheistic call echoes across the sacred space.

Conquest of Mecca Mecca, Kaaba
15

Farewell Sermon and legacy

Muhammad delivers the Farewell Sermon, outlining core ethical and social guidelines for the Muslim community. The sermon seals his earthly guidance and emphasizes unity, justice, and devotion. The film closes by reflecting on Islam's enduring legacy through contemporary worship and global prayers.

After conquest Mecca

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 12:33

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The Message Summary

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The Message Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Message

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