Huzoor(aba) recited verse 128 of Surah Al Taubah (9:128) and delivered today’s Friday Sermon in light of the verse’s narrative that illustrates the singularly compassionate nature of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him). As ever, elucidating the subject with reference to several ahadith, Huzoor(aba) said that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) did not ever utter a harsh word, would never frown, and in fact was always smiling and cheerful. With specific reference to verse 35 of Surah Al-Nisa (4:35) whereby chastising women is mentioned, Huzoor(aba) stressed that there is none who understood and adhered to the Holy Quran as much as the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him). From his blessed life we notice that he did not ever chastise his wives, therein, Huzoor(aba) said, is a lesson for all Muslims to be extremely heedful of never abusing this particular Quranic injunction while dealing with their wives.
Huzoor(aba) went on to recount how the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) would help out with all household chores, that he did not make any distinction between the rich or the poor, that he was constantly conscious of the fear of Allah but did not possess an iota of cynicism or tedium.
Relating an incidence Huzoor(aba) said that once during an expedition the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) [involuntarily] gently struck someone who had accidentally tread on him. Later the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) summoned that person and gave him 80 goats by way of atonement for having gently struck him. Huzoor(aba) further elaborated the subject of compassion by relating the Holy Prophet’s (peace and blessings be on him) particular love for children, his customary caressing of children’s cheeks and cuddling them, gentle playfulness, and a most expressive affection, particularly with his grandchildren. At times he would carry a grandchild while offering his salat, only putting them down during prostration, once he remained in the posture of prostration for a considerably long time because his grandson had climbed on his back and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) let the child take its time to move away.
Huzoor(aba) also related many incidences from the life of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) illustrating his most compassionate nature, in particular with children. Huzoor(aba) recounted that children would feel most comfortable in the company of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) narrating innocent stories to him, that he would unceasingly respond to their incessant questioning. Huzoor(aba) told of the remarkable patience the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) exhibited when disturbed by his children while he would be involved in his most demanding commitments.