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shepherding his flock of sheep which was a vital source of food and income for
his family.

Unfortunately, some people tried to imply that Abu Talib made his nephew look
after his sheep in order to demean him -- indeed, this is not the case. It was a
position of great trust and one must remember that most of the prophets, peace
be upon them, were shepherds at one time or another during their life.

Drought had stricken Mecca and its neighboring settlements in the valley yet
again. It was a hard time for everyone both old and young alike. Abu Talib was
highly respected in his tribe and in times of need, such as this, they would often
turn to him for help and advice.

The situation continued to worsen and so in desperation several of the Koraysh
went to Abu Talib and asked him to pray for rain. Muhammad was with him and
heard their request so together, with Abu Talib carrying him on his shoulders,
they made their way to the Ka'ba to supplicate to Allah for rain.

As they entered the precincts of Ka'ba the sky was blue and the heat of the sun