The daily routine of Prophet Muhammad (?) serves as a timeless guide for balanced and meaningful living. Here is an overview of his habits and practices, divided into different parts of the day:
Morning:
- Waking Up: Prophet Muhammad (?) would wake up early, often before dawn, with the supplication: “Alhamdulillah alladhi ahyana ba‘da ma amatana wa ilayhi-nnushur” (All praise is for Allah, who gave us life after He caused us to die, and to Him is the resurrection.). He would clean his teeth with a miswak (tooth-stick) upon waking.
- Tahajjud (Pre-dawn Prayer): He consistently performed Tahajjud, a voluntary night prayer, which he described as one of the most virtuous acts of worship.
- Fajr (Dawn Prayer): After preparing himself, he would lead the Fajr prayer in congregation. He encouraged starting the day with the remembrance of Allah.
- Post-Prayer Reflection: After Fajr, he would often stay in his prayer place, engaging in the remembrance of Allah (dhikr), reciting the Qur'an, or reflecting until sunrise.
Mid-Morning:
- Work and Responsibilities: The Prophet (?) would dedicate this time to fulfilling personal, family, and community responsibilities. He attended to his companions, resolved disputes, and advised people.
- Visiting the Sick and Caring for Others: He frequently visited the sick, supported the needy, and checked on his community’s well-being.
- Duha (Mid-morning Prayer): He often prayed Salat al-Duha, a voluntary prayer prayed after sunrise until just before noon.
Afternoon:
- Lunch and Rest: The Prophet (?) ate simple, wholesome meals and recommended moderation in eating. He often rested briefly in the early afternoon (known as qaylula, or siesta) to rejuvenate for the rest of the day.
- Dhuhr (Noon Prayer): He performed the Dhuhr prayer and encouraged others to pray on time.
- Engagements and Teachings: He used the afternoon to continue his duties, teach companions, and address community concerns.
Evening:
- Asr (Afternoon Prayer): He performed Asr prayer, emphasizing the importance of guarding this prayer, calling it a “middle prayer” mentioned in the Qur'an.
- Family Time: After Asr, he spent time with his family, offering affection, guidance, and help in household chores.
Night:
- Maghrib (Sunset Prayer): He prayed Maghrib shortly after sunset.
- Dinner and Social Interaction: Dinner was often light. The Prophet (?) engaged with his family or companions, sharing conversations, wisdom, or stories.
- Isha (Night Prayer): After Isha, he encouraged rest and discouraged staying up late unless for worship or necessary work.
- Night Worship and Reflection: If not asleep, he would engage in private worship, such as additional voluntary prayers, Qur'an recitation, and supplications.
General Habits Throughout the Day:
- Cleanliness and Grooming: The Prophet (?) maintained high standards of cleanliness, frequently using miswak, trimming nails, and wearing clean clothes.
- Moderation: His routine balanced worship, family, social duties, and rest. He discouraged overburdening oneself.
- Kindness and Smiling: He was known for his cheerful demeanor, spreading positivity and ease.
- Dhikr and Supplication: Throughout his day, the Prophet (?) consistently engaged in the remembrance of Allah and expressed gratitude.
This holistic routine emphasizes balance, devotion, kindness, and responsibility, serving as a comprehensive model for leading a purposeful life.
Parting thought: All the daily activities are done more or less the same by everyone. Since, our Prophet Muhammad SAW is the extraordinary exemplary figure for us all. Why don't we try to mimic his routine to the best of our abilities. This will make our daily activities fruitful and fulfilling for everyone around us, and thus creating a peaceful and harmonious society.