OVER the last few weeks, we cited several incidents that took place in the Prophet’s homes and with his wives. From these and similar events we learn that his homes were not different from any other home. There may always happen something that is not particularly pleasant to the head of the family. When this happened, the Prophet (peace be upon him) reacted in a normal and kind way. He, however, rejected what was unacceptable, stopping what needed to be stopped. If there was anything that was against Islamic values, he would put an end to it, even physically when such physical action was necessary.
On the other hand, he might let something go even if he was displeased with it, provided that it did not constitute a breach of Islamic principles or values. He might remonstrate with the perpetrator when remonstration was needed to ensure no repeat of the offending act, or he might give a warning should one be necessary. Alternatively, he might just express his displeasure by turning away, or might be satisfied with a simple apology. He never gave a displeasing matter more than it deserved. Nor did he ever place personal pride over other consideration. On the contrary, he was always forbearing and forgiving. He cared for other people’s feelings more than he cared for his own.
The Prophet’s home was subject to any problem that might normally affect family life. He had some disagreements with his wives, as happened when they requested him for more comforts. He was displeased with their request and decided to stay away from them all for a month. They regretted their attitude and never asked for anything again. After the month was over, he gave every one of them the right to choose whether to stay with him or to be divorced. They all unhesitatingly decided to remain married to him, preferring this over all life’s comforts.
In fact, his homes were very simple. Each of his wives had her own compartment. He first built two such compartments, one for Ayesha and one for Sawdah. He added to them only when he married other women. Thus, he built only what was needed. The furniture was very simple indeed, with little more than what was absolutely necessary.
At times, the Prophet’s wives were in two groups, with Ayesha heading one group and Umm Salamah heading the other, but their disagreements did not constitute any great problem for him. They realized that they were married to a man with a very special role and mission in life.
Worship was a very important feature of those homes. Although the Prophet offered all his obligatory prayers in the mosque, he prayed at home most of his voluntary prayers, particularly at night. At times, particularly in the last ten days of Ramadan, he would wake up his wives to offer night worship. They remained keen to offer such night worship, even long after the Prophet had passed away.