“'A'isha was asked: ‘What was Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) accustomed to doing in his home?’ She said: ‘He was a normal human being. He used to examine his clothes for lice, milk his sheep and serve himself.’”
The Humbleness Of Sayyidina Rasoolullah
Ash-Shama'il Al-Muhammadiyah 341
Exegesis of the Hadith
This noble tradition from the Mother of the Believers, 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), reveals the profound humility and natural human disposition of the Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace). When asked about his domestic conduct, she emphasized his complete normality - he engaged in mundane tasks that even the poorest might perform, demonstrating that prophethood does not necessitate artificial elevation above human necessities.
Examining his garments for lice signifies his contentment with simple clothing and attention to cleanliness, while milking his sheep shows his participation in household sustenance. Serving himself reflects his independence and rejection of unnecessary privilege. These actions collectively embody the Quranic principle: "Say, 'I am only a human being like you'" (Surah Al-Kahf, 18:110).
Scholars note that this humility served multiple purposes: it made his teachings accessible to all people, demonstrated that spiritual excellence coexists with practical life, and established that true nobility lies in servitude to Allah rather than worldly status. His example teaches us that Islamic perfection encompasses both spiritual devotion and humble engagement with daily responsibilities.