The interpretation given by the Sahaabah
(companions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wasallam)Afact which non can deny is that the Sahaabah radhiyallahu anhum understood the meaning and interpretation of the holy Qur'aan better than anyone else after the Holy Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wasallam. Therefore, let us turntowards their interpretation of the term "Khaatamun Nabiyyeen" in the aforementioned verse.
Qataadah radhiyallahu anhu says: "But he is the apostle of Allah Ta’aala, and the seal of the prophets', i.e. last of them."
(Ibne Jareer Page 11, Volume 22)
Abdullah Ibne Mas'ood radhiyallahu anhu recited the verse: "But he is a prophet who has terminated the chain of prophets."
(Al Qurtubi Page 197, Volume 14)
Hasan radhiyallahu anhu says regarding the term "Khaatamun Nabiyyeen" in the holy Qur'aan, "Allah Ta’aala has terminated the chain of prophets by (sending) Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wasallam and he is the last to be sent. "
(Abd Ibne Humayd)
These three examples will suffice the readers. Muftee
Muhammad Shafee Sahib has quoted the names of more than 60 Sahaabah
radhiyallahu anhum who have given the same interpretation to the word "Khaatamun Nabiyyeen." From them are great companions like Aboo Bakr, 'Umar, Ali, Ibne
Abbaas, Ibne Umar, Aboo Hurayrah, Ubay, Aa'ishah etc.
radhiyallahu anhum.
Refer to his book "Hadiyyatul Mahdiyyeen fee
aayat-e-Khaatamin Nabiyyeen", Page 30 and 102.