Thus, you are the emir in your own home: the man is a shepherd over his household and is answerable for his flock. The Prophet did not merely say, “a shepherd,” and then fall silent—for had he stopped there, the matter would have been far easier. Instead, he added, “and responsible for his flock.” So consider what answer you will give when, on the Day of Resurrection, you stand before Allah.

We must take heed of these matters before the sweeping torrent overtakes us—a torrent that spares nothing, Allah’s refuge is sought—and our customs and ways become like those of the Christians.

The remainder of the hadith also reports that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, directed them to appear before others in a manner that is pleasing. He said, “You are coming to your brothers, so put yourselves in order and tidy your clothes.” In earlier times everyone knew that a traveler’s clothes were tattered, his hair unkempt, and dust covered him—quite unlike today, when you travel by plane, clean and comfortable, free of such hardship. Back then the situation was the exact opposite, so he ordered them to improve their appearance—that is, to groom their disheveled hair