It is narrated from Sayyiduna Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) separated himself from his noble wives for a month. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) stayed in an upper room and the noble wives stayed on the lower floor. After 29 nights had passed, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) came down. Someone asked: O Messenger of Allah! You stayed for 29 nights (whereas you had intended a month). The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Sometimes a month is like this and like this. Twice he indicated with all the fingers of his hand, and the third time he folded his thumb.