The Second Sermon

the earth.” Then he recited the verse: “He decreed that the number of months should be twelve in number. Out of these, four are sacred. That is the true religion. Do not wrong your souls in these months.” (Quran 9:36) He continued, “Beware, do not return to disbelief after me, striking each other’s necks. Beware, Satan has despaired of being worshipped by those who pray, but he seeks to sow discord among you. So fear God concerning women, for they are dependent upon you and possess nothing for themselves. Your rights over them are that they do not allow anyone on your bed whom you dislike, and they should not permit anyone into your house whom you dislike. If you fear disobedience from them, then admonish them, forsake them in bed, and discipline them lightly. Their right over you is that you provide them with food and clothing in a fitting manner. Indeed, you have taken them as a trust from God, and they were made your spouses by the word of God. Let those who have been entrusted with anything fulfil their trust.” Then, spreading out his hands, he said, “Have I conveyed the message? Have I conveyed the message? Have I conveyed the message?” He then said, “Let those who are present convey it to those who are absent, for perhaps the one informed may understand better than the one who heard it.” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 20695; Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 1218). Explanation The essence of this entire sermon is encapsulated in the words: “Beware, do not oppress! Beware, do not oppress!”