Example of Service and Prayer at Home
📖Sahih al-Bukhari 676
Narrated Al-Aswad: That he asked `Aisha, “What did the Prophet ﷺ use to do in his house?”
She replied, “He used to keep himself busy serving his family, and when it was the time for prayer, he would go for it.”
What did the Prophet ﷺ do while serving his family?
- Help with household chores: The Prophet ﷺ didn’t leave all the work to his wives; he helped with cleaning, cooking, and other household tasks.
- Assisted in the daily care of the home: He would personally attend to the daily needs of the family.
- Shared emotional support: His service wasn’t limited to physical work; he also provided emotional support to his wives and children.
- Encouraged mutual respect: The Prophet ﷺ led by example, showing how important it is for spouses to share responsibilities, ensuring a harmonious family life.
Quranic Context:
📖Quran 4:19
O you who have believed, it is not lawful for you to inherit women by compulsion. And do not make difficulties for them in order to take [back] part of what you gave them unless they commit a clear immorality. And live with them in kindness. For if you dislike them – perhaps you dislike a thing and Allah makes therein much good.
This verse highlights the importance of kindness, mutual respect, and fairness in marriage. The Prophet ﷺ embodied this in his actions, showing that true leadership in a marriage comes from serving, supporting, and living in kindness with one’s spouse.
📖Quran 30:21
And among His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought.
This verse reflects the mutual affection and mercy between spouses, highlighting the importance of not just love, but active care and support for one another, which the Prophet ﷺ embodied by serving his family.
Do Muslims Do This Today?
So, the Prophet ﷺ was here helping his family with household chores, being hands-on, and still finding time to pray. Today, we’ve got husbands who think their duty ends after the workday, and helping with housework is a “no-go” zone. If the Prophet ﷺ, the best of men, was humble enough to serve his family, what’s our excuse? Remember, Islam is about mutual respect, affection, and support, not just showing up when it’s time for prayer. Let’s live up to the example of the Prophet ﷺ and serve our families, as he did, both in love and action.