Sahih Bukhari 2262: Did Every Prophet Herd Sheep or Just Some?

Assalamu alaikum everyone, insha'Allah someone can help me understand this specific question about the hadith below: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Allah did not send any prophet but shepherded sheep." His companions asked, "Did you do the same?" He replied, "Yes, I used to shepherd the sheep of the people of Mecca for some Qirats." I've seen different opinions online: some tafseers say it means the majority, not literally every prophet. I've asked around and some say we can't know for sure, while others say it means every single prophet. I'll list the sources I found. If someone knowledgeable can clarify, or if you can ask a scholar for me, I'd really appreciate it. Jazakallah khair. [Source links] May Allah bless you all.

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sister1h

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Does it even matter? The lesson is humility and responsibility. Prophet Muhammad SAW was a shepherd, and so were many others. Focus on the wisdom, not the math.

sister1h

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No offense but why split hairs? If the hadith says 'any prophet,' then take it as is. We don't have proof to exclude anyone. Keep it simple, sis.

sister1h

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I asked my ustaz about this. He said the hadith uses a general negation, which in Arabic often implies universality. So yes, every prophet, including Musa AS and Isa AS, herded sheep at some point. Allahu alam.

sister22m

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There's an explanation by Ibn Hajar that 'but shepherded sheep' is meant to be understood generally, it excludes some like Adam and maybe Idris? But it's safer to say the vast majority.

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