His death without an heir therefore created the vexing problem of succession. Who has the right to rule the world of Islam? The present war between Iraq and Iran was sparked by that question.

It is for all these reasons that the legend of the Wafatu ’n-Nabii, the Death of the Prophet, is such a heart-rending tale for Muslims. It can be found in most collections of edifying tales for Muslim readers in the Middle East. The version that follows is from a manuscript in Swahili verse. Much of the extant material from the Swahili epic tradition, which dates at least from the early seventeenth century, is composed of a cycle of legends woven around the life of Muhammad, including the miracles seen at his birth, as well as his peaceful departure from this world. These didactic poems play an essential role in the educational system of Swahili Islam.

One night the angel Jibril descended from Heaven with a glad countenance. When the Prophet asked him what joyful tidings he had to announce, Jibril spoke, "My brother Muhammad, I am happy to tell you that you will soon join me in Heaven, for it has pleased my Master to decide that you will die tonight. Welcome to Heaven!"

Thus spoke the angel to God's messenger:
“My brother, wise apostle of the Lord!
Please listen to these last words you will hear
from me while you are still alive on earth:
Come with me to my Paradise; it’s home!
The birds are singing divine melodies.
The trees are all in bloom and full of flowers
of every color that the rainbow shows.
I have adorned the gardens and the paths.
The prophets of the past wait eagerly
to welcome you as soon as you arrive.
Your parents and your grandparents are there.
Your first wife waits for you to join her soon,
devout and longing for her husband’s love.
I have prepared your palace on a hill;
it overlooks the rivers where they join.
The fruit trees waving in the gentle breeze,
the foliage shading you from Eden’s sun,
I put it all in place for you to see,