Introduction
Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (RA) is known as the ”Mother of the Believers”. She was Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) third and youngest wife. Her father, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (RA), was the closest companion and most important supporter of the Prophet (SAW). Hazrat Aisha’s (RA) life is a testament that women can learn just as much as men. She demonstrated her ability to be a teacher to scholars and experts. Her life also shows that women have the power to influence and inspire individuals and lead them. Moreover, Hazrat Aisha (RA) proves that a woman can be feminine and provide her husband with pleasure, joy, and comfort.
Narrated by Hazrat Amr bin Al-As (AS):
The Prophet (SAW) deputed me to read the Army of Dhat-as-Salasil. I came to him and said, “Who is the most beloved person to you?” He said, ” Aisha.” I asked, “Among the men?” He said, “Her father.” I said, “Who then?” He said, “ThenUmar bin Al-Khattab.” He then named other men.
(Sahih al-Bukhari 3662)
Early Life of Hazrat Aisha (RA)
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was born in the holy city of Makkah in 613 or early 614 CE. This was just a few years after the Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) prophethood began. Her father, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA), was a wealthy merchant and one of the earliest converts to Islam. Her mother, Hazrat Umm Roman Zainab (RA), was also a devout Muslim and a close friend of the Prophet’s (SAW) wife, Hazrat Khadijah (RA).
Looking to know more about the life and legacy of Hazrat Abu Bakr Saddiq? Click on the link below to dive into his fascinating story: Role of Hazrat Abu Bakr in Islamic History
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was known for her intelligence, wit, and curiosity as a child. She loved to learn and often accompanied her father to the mosque to hear the Prophet’s (SAW) teachings. She also enjoyed playing with dolls. Additionally, she had a particular fondness for a winged horse toy, which she often played with in her free time.
One day, when the Prophet (SAW) came to visit Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA). He saw Hazrat Aisha (RA) playing with her favorite toy. He approached her with a smile and asked her what it was. Hazrat Aisha (RA) replied that it was a winged horse. The Prophet (SAW) remarked that he had never seen anything like it. This simple exchange would later become a cherished memory for Hazrat Aisha (RA). It is also a testament to the Prophet’s (SAW) kindness and love for children.
Her Marriage with Prophet (SAW)
Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (RA) was a highly respected figure in Islamic history. She was the youngest among the wives of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him). She was married to Him (Peace be Upon Him) at the very young age of six. Before the marriage, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) saw a dream about her in which an angel presented something wrapped in silk to Him. Holy Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) had asked the Angel what it was, and he said it was his wife.
When he removed the silk cover, He (Peace be Upon Him) saw it was Hazrat Aisha (RA). Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) used to receive revelation when He (Peace be Upon Him) was with Hazrat Aisha (RA). The marriage was executed in Mecca, and the consummation of the marriage took place only in the month of Shawwal after His hijrah to Medina (April 623). Some classical sources indicate no delay in executing the marriage in Medina, as Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated.
Discover the captivating history of the Hijrah and explore this informative piece and learn more about this fascinating topic by reading our blog post titled: Hijrah Madina – What is Hijra in Islam
Narrated by Hazrat Aisha (RA):
Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said to me, “You were shown to me twice (in my dream) before I married you. I saw an angel carrying you in a silken piece of cloth, and I said to him, ‘Uncover (her),’ and behold, it was you. I said (to myself), ‘If this is from Allah, then it must happen.’ Then you were shown to me, the angel carrying you in a silken piece of cloth, and I said (to him), ‘Uncover (her), and behold, it was you. I said (to myself), ‘If this is from Allah, then it must happen.’ “
(Sahih al-Bukhari 7012)
Hazrat Aisha’s (RA) marriage to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) has been regarded as one of the most significant events in Islamic history. Still, it is widely acknowledged that Hazrat Aisha (RA) played an essential role in the Prophet’s life and the development of Islam. She played an active role in His life. He (Peace be Upon Him) would often consult her on various matters.
If you want to learn more about the Life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), you can read our blog post titled: Prophet Muhammad (SAW): Life, Revelation, and Legacy
Her Life after Marriage
After her marriage to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Hazrat Aisha (RA) led a simple life characterized by devotion to Islam. She also dedicated herself to serving the community. She continued to support her husband in his mission, offering wisdom and guidance to individuals. Despite her position as the wife of the Prophet (SAW), she remained humble. She dedicated herself to prayer, learning, and helping others, embodying the values of simplicity and piety.
O Prophet! Say to your wives, “If you desire the life of this world and its luxury, then come, I will give you a suitable compensation for divorce and let you go graciously. But if you desire Allah and His Messenger and the everlasting Home of the Hereafter, then surely Allah has prepared a great reward for those of you who do good.” (Quran 33:28-29)
Her reply was, “Indeed, I desire God and His Messenger and the abode of the Hereafter,” and all the other wives followed her.
Blessings of Allah Almighty, which distinguished Her from all other Wife’s
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was blessed by Allah Almighty in many ways. These blessings set her apart from all other women except for Hazrat Maryam bint Imran (AS), the mother of Prophet Isa (AS). Some of the blessings that distinguished her are:
- The Angel showed the Prophet (SAW) Hazrat Aisha (RA) wrapped in green silk. He informed him that she was the lady chosen by Allah Almighty to be his companion in this world and the hereafter.
- Hazrat Aisha (RA) was the only wife of the Prophet (SAW) who had not been previously married.
- The Prophet (SAW) died in Hazrat Aisha’s (RA) house/room and was buried there.
- Hazrat Aisha (RA) was the daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA), the loyal and true friend of the Prophet (SAW).
- Hazrat Aisha (RA) was born a Muslim and grew up in a pure environment. She spent her childhood with the Messenger of Allah (SAW), the purest and best of all creatures.
- Hazrat Aisha’s (RA) unique characteristic is that the Prophet (SAW) received revelation only in her bed, not in the beds of any of his other wives.
Role of Hazrat Aisha (RA) in the Narration of Hadiths
Hazrat Aisha (RA), the wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), played a pivotal role in the narration and dissemination of hadiths. Hadiths are the sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She is considered one of the most important narrators due to her close relationship with the Prophet (SAW). Her deep understanding of Islam further solidifies her significance in the narration of hadiths. With an exceptional memory, she narrated around 2,300 Hadiths, which contributed significantly to the Islamic tradition and jurisprudence. Her narrations cover many topics, including the Prophet’s private life, daily practices, and spiritual insights, providing a comprehensive view of his teachings. Hazrat Aisha’s invaluable contributions are directly linked to the Prophet’s wisdom and guidance, which continue to impact the lives of Muslims worldwide.
Hazrat Aisha (RA) took part in the Battle of Uhud
During the time of the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him), women actively supported the Muslim army. They not only provided moral support but also participated in battles alongside men. Women also provided support services such as nursing, cooking, and caring for the wounded.
One such example of women’s active participation in the welfare of the Muslim community is the Battle of Uhud. When the Muslim army faced a crushing defeat, Hazrat Aisha (RA) and Hazrat Umm Sulaym (RA), a respected Muslim woman, took it upon themselves to help the injured soldiers. They carried water on their backs to quench the thirst of the wounded soldiers who were lying on the ground in agony.
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was known for her intellectual prowess and bravery on the battlefield. She actively participated in several battles during the time of the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) and inspired other Muslim women.
This incident is a clear example of how women in Islam played an important role in the welfare of the Muslim community during the time of the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him). It also highlights that Islam promotes gender equality and recognizes the contribution of women in society.
Discover more insights on the role of women in Islam by exploring our detailed blog post: Empowerment of Women in Islam.
Death of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him)
He stayed in Hazrat Aisha’s (RA) apartment until his demise, and he took his final breath while lying in the arms of Hazrat Aisha (RA). Hazrat Aisha (RA) was said to have had an extraordinary memory, and during his lifetime, the Holy Prophet (SAW) said, “Half the religion of Islam could be learned from [her].” This is apparent when one considers that Hazrat Aisha (RA) learned the teachings and practices of Islam first-hand from the Holy Prophet (Peace be Upon Him), and over two thousand ahadith can be attributed to her narrations alone.
With her excellent memory and eloquent speech, she shared these teachings and became one of the most important sources of Islamic wisdom. Her achievements do not stop there – she is said to have released forty slaves in a single instance. Additionally, she distributed money even when she had nothing to eat, and the Companions of the Holy Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) continuously consulted her on intellectual inquiries.
Death of Hazrat Aisha (RA)
Hazrat Aisha (RA), the beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), passed away on the 17th day of Ramadan in the year 58 CE at her home in Madinah. She had led a life full of courage, intelligence, and piety. Hazrat Aisha (RA) was known for her wisdom and knowledge. She played a significant role in spreading and preserving the teachings of Islam.
Abu Hurairah (RA), a close companion of the Prophet (SAW), led the funeral prayers. After her funeral prayer, her body was laid to rest in Jannat-ul-Baqi, the famous graveyard in Madinah located next to the Prophet’s (SAW) Mosque. Their hearts were heavy with sadness as they bid farewell to one of their time’s most respected and revered women.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated over 2,300 Hadiths, significantly contributing to Islamic tradition and jurisprudence. Her narrations provided a comprehensive view of the Prophet’s teachings.
According to some traditional Islamic sources, she was married at the age of six or seven and consummated the marriage when she was nine or ten.
Hazrat Aisha (RA), the beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), passed away on the 17th day of Ramadan in the year 58 CE (aged 63–65) at her home in Madinah.
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was six years old when she was betrothed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), himself in his 50s. The marriage was consummated when she was only nine years old.
After Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) death, she served the Muslim community for 44 years and played a vital role in spreading his message.
Conclusion
Life of Hazrat Aisha (RA) stands out as a shining example of knowledge, resilience, and faith in Islamic history. Her life was closely intertwined with Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him). It serves as a testament to the power of devotion and connection. Hazrat Aisha (RA) was also the first female scholar of Islam, paving the way for women in leadership roles. Her life challenges stereotypes and showcases the transformative strength of women. From her playful days to her revered stature, the life of Hazrat Aisha (RA) remains a source of inspiration. She demonstrated that gender is not a barrier to making a profound impact. Her legacy continues to guide hearts and minds, leaving an indelible mark.
Hazrat Aisha (RA) was a woman of great strength, character, and faith. Her contributions to the Islamic world will never be forgotten.
