The Prophet said, '(It happens that) I start the prayer intending to prolong it, but on hearing the cries of a child, I shorten the prayer because I know that the cries of the child will incite its mother's passions.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The Prophet shortened his prayer when hearing a child’s cries, knowing it would stir the mother’s emotions.
- In plain terms
- He cut short his prayer upon hearing a child cry to avoid upsetting the mother.
- What can you take from it?
- Prioritize empathy over ritual length.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you shortened a ritual for someone else?
- How do you balance devotion and compassion?
Another view
Balancing personal devotion with external needs can be difficult.
More from Holy Prophet Muhammad
The first to be summoned to Paradise on the Day of Resurrection will be those who praise God in prosperity and adversity.
Permalink to quote #36 There is a reward for kindness to every living animal or human.
Permalink to quote #38 The first cases to be adjudicated between people on the Day of Judgment will be those of bloodshed [killing and injuring]
Permalink to quote #35
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