When the Prophet (ﷺ) married Zainab, the people came and were offered a meal, and then they sat down (after finishing their meals) and started chatting. The Prophet (ﷺ) showed as if he wanted to get up, but they did not get up. When he noticed that, he got up, and some of the people also got up and went away, while some others kept on sitting. When the Prophet (ﷺ) returned to enter, he found the people still sitting, but then they got up and left. So I told the Prophet (ﷺ) of their departure and he came and went in. I intended to go in but the Prophet (ﷺ) put a screen between me and him, for Allah revealed:-- 'O you who believe! Enter not the Prophet's houses..' (33.53)
Contextual Background
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 6239 describes the occasion following the Prophet's marriage to Zainab bint Jahsh, which led to the revelation of specific Quranic injunctions regarding etiquette in the Prophet's household.
The incident occurred when guests overstayed their welcome after the wedding feast, demonstrating the need for divinely-guided social conduct.
Scholarly Commentary on Etiquette
The Prophet's subtle indication to rise was a polite gesture for guests to depart, preserving their dignity while maintaining proper boundaries.
When guests failed to recognize this courtesy, the direct action became necessary, teaching us that persistence in overstaying requires firmer response.
Anas ibn Malik's narration shows how even close companions were subject to these new regulations once revealed.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
The incident precipitated the revelation of Surah Al-Ahzab verse 53, establishing permanent legislation for respecting the Prophet's privacy and household sanctity.
This ruling extends metaphorically to respecting all private spaces and understanding social cues in Islamic conduct.
The screen (hijab) mentioned symbolizes both physical and spiritual boundaries that must be observed in relationships.
Practical Applications
Muslims should be mindful of time when visiting others and recognize subtle hints for departure.
Hosts may employ gentle indications first before direct communication when guests overstay.
Respecting privacy, especially of religious leaders and scholars, remains an enduring principle derived from this incident.