Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, an exemplary Muslim woman, left an indelible mark on the annals of Islamic history. This article unveils the story and character of Khadijah, a woman of immense significance, who was not only the first but also the most beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad.
Drawing Inspiration from Khadijah (رضي الله )
Islam values and honors women, and throughout history, numerous Muslim women have been role models and inspirations to the community. One of the most renowned and influential figures is Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (رضي الله ), the first wife and beloved companion of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Khadijah (رضي الله ) possessed exceptional qualities and virtues. She was the first woman to embrace Islam, the first to support the prophethood of Muhammad (ﷺ), and the first to give birth to his offspring. She is also counted among the four greatest women in history, alongside Fatimah bint Muhammad, Maryam bint Imran, and Asiyah bint Muzahim.
In this article, we delve into the life and contributions of Khadijah (رضي الله ) within Islamic history, while extracting valuable lessons from her journey.
Khadijah: A Woman of Success and Generosity
Born in Mecca in the year 555 AD, Khadijah (رضي الله ) hailed from a wealthy and respected family. Her father was Khuwaylid bin Asad, a leader of the Quraysh tribe, while her mother was Fatimah bint Zaidah, an honorable woman from the Asad tribe.
Following her father's passing, Khadijah (رضي الله ) inherited his business, becoming a prosperous trader engaged in commerce with various countries such as Syria, Yemen, Bahrain, and others. She gained fame as the "Merchant Woman" or "Woman of Twelve Thousand" due to her wealth and reputation.
Khadijah (رضي الله ) was not only successful in business but also in her character. She was known for her generosity, humility, and nobility. She consistently aided those in need, including the impoverished, widows, orphans, the sick, and the disabled. She also arranged marriages for disadvantaged girls, providing dowries from her own wealth.
Khadijah (رضي الله ) earned the titles "righteous woman" and "woman of piety" due to her honesty and devotion. She disapproved of idol worship prevalent in Mecca at the time, preferring the worship of the One God, following the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim (as).
Khadijah: The First and Beloved Wife of Prophet Muhammad
Prior to her marriage to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Khadijah (رضي الله ) had been married twice. Her first husband was Abu Halah bin Zurarah bin Rabiah al-Tamimi, a wealthy merchant who passed away due to illness. Her second husband was Atiq bin Aidh bin Abdullah al-Makhzumi, an uncle of Khalid bin Walid. Both husbands left children in Khadijah's care.
Khadijah (رضي الله ) married Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) when she was 40 years old, while he was 25.
Their union was prompted by Khadijah's (رضي الله ) admiration for Muhammad's (ﷺ) honesty and character, as he had worked as a trade agent for her. Concerned about Khadijah's (رضي الله ) well-being, her friend Nafisah bint Munyah proposed marriage on Khadijah's (رضي الله ) behalf. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) accepted the proposal after consulting his uncle, Abu Talib.
Their marriage was characterized by love, affection, and happiness. Khadijah (رضي الله ) was a loyal, compassionate, and supportive wife to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). She selflessly dedicated her wealth to support his prophetic mission, sacrificing her comfort to endure trials and challenges. She offered guidance, encouragement, and solace during difficult times.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) held deep affection for Khadijah (رضي الله ) and remained monogamous during their time together. He cherished her memory even after her passing, often praising her with fondness. He maintained positive relationships with Khadijah's (رضي الله ) family and friends. Aisha radhiyallahu 'anha, Muhammad's (ﷺ) beloved wife following Khadijah (رضي الله ), admitted that no woman made her more jealous than Khadijah (رضي الله ), despite never having met her.
Khadijah: Mother of Prophet Muhammad's Offspring
Khadijah (رضي الله ) was blessed with noble offspring. She gave birth to six children for Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ): two sons and four daughters. Her sons were Qasim and Abdullah, while her daughters were Zainab, Ruqayyah, Ummu Kultsum, and Fatimah.
Tragically, both of Khadijah's (رضي الله ) sons died at a young age. Qasim passed away at two years old, and Abdullah as an infant. Their deaths were heartbreaking for both Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and Khadijah (رضي الله ), yet they endured with patience and gratitude to Allah.
Khadijah's (رضي الله ) four daughters grew up to be pious women, marrying some of the best companions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Zainab married Abu al-As bin al-Rabi', Ruqayyah married Uthman bin Affan, Ummu Kultsum married Uthman bin Affan after Ruqayyah's passing, and Fatimah married Ali bin Abi Talib. They became mothers to the beloved grandchildren of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Khadijah (رضي الله ) is also regarded as the mother of all believers. This is due to her being the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who is considered the spiritual father of all believers. As the first woman to embrace Islam and support Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) message, she earned the title "Ummul Mu'minin" or "Mother of the Believers" from Allah.
In Conclusion
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (رضي الله ) is a pivotal Muslim woman in the annals of Islamic history. She was a prosperous and generous woman who extended help to many. As the first and most beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), she exhibited love, support, and sacrifice for the sake of Islam. She was the mother of Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) progeny, a source of pride and blessings for the Muslim community.
From Khadijah's (رضي الله ) story, there are numerous valuable lessons we can draw:
- Unwavering faith and sincere devotion to Allah's worship. Khadijah (رضي الله ) was the first woman to embrace Islam and declare her faith through the shahada. She diligently performed her prayers, observed fasting, gave charity, and engaged in acts of worship with utmost dedication and sincerity. Undeterred by mockery and threats from disbelievers, she fearlessly adhered to the teachings of Islam.
- Love and compassion in marriage. Khadijah (رضي الله ) demonstrated profound love for her husband, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). She consistently stood by his side, offering unwavering support and solace in every circumstance. Khadijah (رضي الله ) honored, obeyed, and brought joy to the Prophet (ﷺ) in all aspects of their relationship. She never felt jealousy or envy towards other women who married Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) after her passing.
- Sacrifice and patience in the path of Allah. Khadijah (رضي الله ) made substantial sacrifices by dedicating her wealth to support the Prophet's (ﷺ) mission. She faced difficulties and trials with patience, along with her husband and children. Her resolute demeanor and fortitude never wavered. She never complained or regretted her decision to embrace Islam.
- Courage and wisdom in societal engagement. Khadijah (رضي الله ) was a bold and astute businesswoman. She exhibited wisdom in choosing her spouse, who was the finest individual on Earth. She actively played a role in spreading Islam to her family, relatives, and friends. Khadijah (رضي الله ) proudly embraced her identity as a Muslim woman without shame or hesitation.
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (رضي الله ) is a remarkable role model to emulate and celebrate. Her lofty status in the sight of Allah and His Messenger is unquestionable. She received praises and accolades from Allah, His Messenger, the angels, and the companions.
May we follow Khadijah's (رضي الله ) path in faith, piety, character, and deeds. May we also be recipients of her intercession in the Hereafter. Ameen. Just as Khadijah (رضي الله ) left an indelible impact on Islamic history, may her legacy inspire us to embody the virtues she exemplified, both in our personal lives and within our communities.
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