I have a couple of questions about Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) last sermon. As there are different versions as well as variant translations of this sermon in circulation, I have included the copy I am asking about at the end of this question if anyone wants to go over it (I got it in an email).
Anyway, on to the questions:
In the beginning of this sermon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) talks about he not knowing if he'll be alive after that year. Did he know when he was going to die?
In the sermon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says to be aware of Satan because he cannot lead you astray in big things so be aware of following him in small things. What does he mean when he talks about big things vs. small things? For instance, what makes a sin big vs. small?
The Prophet's Last Sermon: (emphasis mine)
O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I don't know whether, after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.
O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that He will indeed reckon your deeds. Allaah has forbidden you to take usury (Interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived...
Beware of Satan, for your safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.
O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have right over you. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to commit adultery.
O People, listen to me in earnest, worship Allaah, say your five daily prayers (Salaah), fast during the month of Ramadaan, and give your wealth in Zakaat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to. You know that every Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. You are all equal. Nobody has superiority over other except by piety and good action.
Remember, one day you will appear before Allaah and answer for your deeds. So beware, do not astray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.
O People, no prophet or apostle will come after me and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand my words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the Qur'an and my example, the Sunnah and if you follow these you will never go astray.
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly.
Be my witness oh Allaah that I have conveyed your message to your people.