A Comparative Study of Domestic Items: The Houses of the Holy Prophet Muhammad & Modern Homes

Abstract

This article examines the simplicity and modesty of the household and lifestyle of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), providing detailed insights into the structure, facilities, and daily practices within his homes. The study underscores how the Prophet's living conditions exemplify humility and detachment from worldly luxuries, serving as a timeless model for Muslims seeking a balanced and spiritually focused life. The homes of the Prophet (PBUH), including those of his wives such as Aisha (RA), Hafsa (RA), and Umm Salamah (RA), were constructed with basic materials like mud bricks and palm branches. These structures were modest in size and design, consisting primarily of two parts: the "Hujrat" (small, unroofed chambers with low walls) and the "Bouyut" (houses). Essential facilities within these homes were sparse yet sufficient, including basic amenities such as a simple toilet (kinif), a stove (tannur) infrequently used due to the Prophet's (PBUH) ascetic practices, and minimal furnishings like mats (hasir), blankets (khumrah), and simple bedding (firash) filled with palm fibers. Household items comprised basic cooking and eating utensils made from readily available materials, reflecting a conscious avoidance of extravagance. Numerous Hadiths support these descriptions, providing authentic accounts of the Prophet's (PBUH) daily life and household arrangements. For instance, narratives detail interactions within these humble spaces, the simplicity of domestic routines, and the Prophet's (PBUH) guidance against unnecessary adornment and construction, emphasizing contentment and spiritual wealth over material possessions. In conclusion, the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) humble living conditions and minimalist approach to household arrangements are a profound lesson in modesty, contentment, and spiritual focus. Embracing these values can help individuals cultivate a more meaningful and balanced life, aligning with the core teachings of Islam and fostering a deeper connection with the divine.

Keywords: Holy, Prophet, Muhammad, Allah, House, Hadith