on their behalf, and he would inform them of what they ought to know, saying, “Let those who are present convey it to those who are absent. Bring to me the need of anyone who is unable to convey it himself, for whoever presents to a ruler the need of one who cannot present it, Allah will keep his feet firm on the Day of Resurrection.” Nothing else was discussed in his presence, and he would accept it from no one but the one who conveyed such a need. They entered to him as seekers and only dispersed after tasting something; they departed as guides—meaning, guides to goodness.

I asked him about the Prophet’s manner when he went out among the people: what did he do? He said, “He guarded his tongue, speaking only about matters that concerned him. He brought people together and did not drive them apart. He honored the noble of every clan and appointed him over them. He was wary of people and cautious of them, yet he never withheld his cheerful face or fine character from anyone. He would look after his Companions, enquire about what concerned people, endorse what was good and strengthen it, denounce what was ugly and weaken it. His conduct was balanced, never inconsistent; he did not allow them to lapse into heedlessness lest they themselves become heedless or weary. For every circumstance he had the fitting course of action. He neither fell short of the truth nor went beyond it. Those nearest to him were the best of people; the most excellent in his sight were those most abundant in counsel, and the greatest in his estimation were those who excelled in supporting others.

I then asked him about his gatherings—how did he comport himself in them? He said, “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ would neither rise nor sit down without remembering Allah. He did not reserve seats for himself, and he forbade others to reserve them. When he came to a group, he sat wherever the session ended, and he ordered others to do likewise. He gave each of his companions his share, so that no one who sat with him thought that anyone else was more honored by him than he was.

Anyone who sat with him, or stood with him for a need, he would patiently remain with until that person departed. Whoever asked him for something, he would either give it to him or dismiss him with gentle words. His openhandedness and character embraced all people, so that he became to them like a father, and in matters of truth they were equal before him.

His assembly was one of forbearance, modesty, patience, and trustworthiness: voices were not raised, the sanctity of women was never violated, and mistakes were not broadcast. They sat there as equals, distinguished only by piety; they were humble, showing reverence therein