Introducing Exemplary Role Models for Muslim Women
Hazrat Ayesha al-Siddiqah (MABH)
The Mother of the Believers (Umm al Momineen), Hazrat Ayesha al-Siddiqah (MABH), is a perfect example of chastity, purity, and modesty. Her noble father, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (MABH), was the first free man to believe in the Prophet (PBUH) and was always known as his companion and supporter. Even before Islam, Abu Bakr was known and respected for his generosity, courage, trustworthiness, wisdom, good character, and pure lifestyle. Men of his tribe would gather around him for his deep knowledge, pleasant companionship, and noble manners.
Her noble mother, Umm Ruman (MABH), the wife of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, was a kind and caring mother during times of hardship. She was known for her faith, trustworthiness, compassion, and good character. Ayesha (MABH) grew up in such a household and later gained fame as the wife of the Prophet (PBUH). Even before her birth, her parents were companions and lovers of Allah and His Messenger, which meant she was raised from birth in an environment filled with the light of monotheism and sincerity.
Ayesha, who had a father like Abu Bakr (MABH), was adorned with the character of the Prophet (PBUH) and was among the earliest to be raised under the shade of Islam. Umm Ruman was the woman about whom the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever wants to see a woman among the women of Paradise, let him look at Umm Ruman.”
After the Prophet (PBUH) lost his faithful wife, Hazrat Khadijah (MABH), a time of hardship and grief began for him. Khadijah was among the first to believe in his mission and made many sacrifices in supporting him. These outstanding qualities created a deep bond of love and affection between her and the Prophet (PBUH), so her passing was extremely painful for him. That year became known as ‘Ām al-Ḥuzn—the Year of Sorrow.
After Khadijah’s passing, Khawlah bint Hakīm, the wife of Uthman ibn Maẓ‘ūn, suggested to the Prophet (PBUH) that he marry Sawdah and Ayesha. The Prophet (PBUH) asked her to go and propose on his behalf. He was interested in marrying Sawdah (MABH) to help manage his home and care for his daughters, and in Ayesha al-Siddiqah (MABH) as a successor to Khadijah in supporting and spreading the message of Islam. Ayesha had remarkable intelligence, alertness, and a strong and independent personality, which the Prophet (PBUH) noticed. He saw in her the potential to be a wise and capable wife.
Khawlah bint Hakīm hurried to the house of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq with the good news and said to Umm Ruman: “Do you know what a great blessing Allah has granted you? The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) has mentioned Ayesha and wishes to marry her.” Umm Ruman was overjoyed and said: “This is a source of strength and honor for me. But let us wait for Abu Bakr to return.” When Abu Bakr came home, Khawlah told him the news. Abu Bakr asked: “Is Ayesha eligible for such a marriage? Isn’t he (the Prophet) my religious brother? Doesn’t Islam make us brothers in faith?” Khawlah returned to the Prophet (PBUH) and shared Abu Bakr’s concern. The Prophet replied: “Tell him: You are my brother in religion, and your daughter is lawful and suitable for me to marry.”
This shows that in some places today, some women claim that a man is their “religious brother” and do not observe hijab in front of him. But we must remember that hijab is a religious obligation and must be observed before all non-mahram men, even so-called religious brothers.
With this understanding, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq accepted the Prophet (PBUH) as his son-in-law and gave Ayesha’s hand in marriage. This blessed proposal came with a dowry of 400 silver dirhams, and the marriage took place in the month of Shawwal, three years before the Hijrah. According to the most reliable views in books of Sīrah, Ayesha (MABH) was six or seven years old at the time of the marriage contract.
The dowry of the Mother of the Believers, Hazrat Ayesha (MABH)—recognized as one of the greatest and most prominent women in Islam—was 400 dirhams. While this amount may seem small by today’s standards, it was considered reasonable at the time. This simplicity and moderation in dowry are beloved to Allah, yet many Muslims today demand excessive dowries, which burden young people and lead to financial and social problems. Some youth even resort to unethical means to cover marriage expenses, which can lead to drug abuse or imprisonment. Who will bear the responsibility for such outcomes on the Day of Judgment?
The Prophet (PBUH) had immense love for Ayesha (MABH). She was married to him while still a virgin and became one of the most knowledgeable women of her time. Many of the senior Companions (Sahaba) benefited from her knowledge. When asked who he loved the most, the Prophet (PBUH) answered: “Ayesha.” And then he said: “Her father (Abu Bakr).”
We should recognize that Ayesha (MABH) reached her esteemed status through her own effort and dedication. Great scholars would ask her religious questions. This stands in contrast to some women today who may lack the enthusiasm or interest to ask or study religious matters. Respected sisters, you are encouraged to approach the study of Islamic knowledge with interest and eagerness, so that you may progress on the path of understanding and wisdom.
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