Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha)

She is the daughter of Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu). There is a difference of opinion regarding her mother's name. Some said it was Zainab, but she was known by the title of "Umme Roomaan". She was the first and only virgin wife of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Besides her all Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s other wives were widows. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was born about 4 to 5 years after Nabuwwat, and she was married to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) at the age of six. She went to the home of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) at the age of nine. The Nikah took place in Macca and the Rukhsati (sent to husband), took place in Madinah. She remained in the service of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) for 9 years. She was 18 years old when Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) passed away.

NIKAH

After the demise of Hadhrat Khadija (radhiAllaahu anha), Hadhrat Khaulah binti Hakeem (radhiAllaahu anha) told Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) that he should remarry. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), asked her: "Who to?" She replied that he could marry whoever he wished, a virgin or a widow. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) asked as to which virgin she had in mind.

She replied; "From amongst all the creation, your best friend is Abu Bakr. You could marry his daughter, Aisha." Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) then asked her, regarding which widow she had in mind. She replied: "Saudah binti Zam`a, who has brought Imaan in you, and follows you."

Upon hearing this Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) told her to go to both places and propose for him. Hadhrat Khaulah (radhiAllaahu anha) first went to Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu)'s home. At the time Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) was not at home. She told Umme Roomaan, that she has some news for her. She told her that Allaah Ta`ala had intended glad tidings for their home. Upon enquiry she replied that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had sent her with a proposal of marriage for Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha).

Hadhrat Umme Roomaan, said that she should wait for the arrival of Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu). When he arrived she told him the glad news.

Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) said: "She is the niece of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)" - He regarded himself as the brother of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). "Can Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) marry her?" Then Hadhrat Khaulah (radhiAllaahu aha) went to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam),and asked him regarding the query of Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu). Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said : "Tell Abu Bakr that he and I are brothers in Deen, I can marry his daughter." Hadhrat Khaulah (radhiAllaahu anha) took this news to Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu), who gladly consented to the proposal. He called Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and the Nikah was performed.

Thereafter Hadhrat Khaulah (radhiAllaahu anha) went to Hadhrat Saudah (radhiAllaahu anha), who indicated her towards her father, Zam`a, they also consented to the proposal, and Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was married to her. -This will, Insha-Allaah be discussed under the subject regarding Hadhrat Saudah (radhiAllaahu anha).

HIJRAT

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) took the advice of Hadhrat Khaulah (radhiAllaahu anha) and married Hadhrat Aisha and Saudah (radhiAllaahu anhuma). However, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was left at her parents home, since she was still too young (6 years). Hadhrat Saudah (radhiAllaahu anha) came to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and she was given the domestic responsibilities.

Not long thereafter, the Hijrat had begun and most of the Sahabahs reached Madinah Tayyibah. Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) also desired to make Hijrat, but Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) told him not to make haste as he hoped that Allaah Ta`ala will give him a companion. Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllahu anhu) had lost hope that he would accompany Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) to Madinah Munawwarah. Nevertheless, when Allaah Ta`ala gave Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) the order to make Hijrat, he took Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) with him. Both of them left their families and went to Madinah. Upon their safe arrival there they made arrangements for their families to join them.

Hadhrat Zaid bin Haarith and Abu Raafi` (radhiAllaahu anhuma) were sent to Macca with 2 camels and 500 dirhams, in order to bring the families of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu). On the way they purchased another three camels and arrived in Makkah.

There they met Hadhrat Talha bin Ubaidullah (radhiAllaahu anhu). He had also intended to go to Madinah. Eventually all of them left for Madinah Munawwarah. Included in this caravan was; Hadhrat Zaid bin Haarith, his son Usaama, his wife Umme Ayman, the two daughters of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), Hadhrat Faatima and Umme Kulthoom, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s two wives, Hadhrat Saudah and Aisha, the mother, Umme Roomaan, and sister, Asmaa binti Abi Bakr, of Hadhrat Aisha, and her brother Abdullah bin Abi Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhum ajmaeen).

On this journey, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) and her mother were seated in one canopy, upon a camel. On the way the camel bolted and started fleeing (due to some reason). Hadhrat Umme Roomaan (radhiAllaahu anha), became very perturbed and alarmed regarding the safety of her daughter, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha). She started screaming: "Oh my beloved daughter, oh my bride." However, Allaah Ta`ala sent His unseen assistance.

A voice from the unseen called out: "Let go of the camel's bridle!". Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) say that she let go of the bridle and the animal came to a halt and returned peacefully.

When they arrived in Madinah, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was busy constructing living quarters around the Musjid-e-Nabawi, with the Sahabahs. Hadhrat Saudah, Faatima and Umme Kulthoom (radhiAllaahu anhunna) were made to reside therein. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was sent to live with her parents.

A few months thereafter, in the month of Shawwal, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha)'s Rukhsati was made (i.e. she was sent to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The sister of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), Hadhrat Asmaa binti Abi Bakr (radhiAllaahu anha) was close to giving birth at the time of Hijrat. She stayed at Quba, and there she gave birth to a son, who was named Abdullah.

The father of this son was Hadhrat Zubair (radhiAllaahu anhu), therefore he became known as Abdullah bin Zubair. This was the first child to be born to the Muhaajireen (migrators from Macca to Madinah). After this birth, the Muslims were greatly overjoyed, because the jews had spread the news that they had done 'Jaadoo' (black magic) upon the Muslims and that no children will be born to them. This birth of Hadhrat Abdullah bin Zubair was proof of the jews falsity and their spite for the Muslims.

Hadhrat Asmaa (radhiAllaahu anha) says: "When Abdullah was born, I took him to the presence of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) placed the baby in his lap and asked for a date, which was given to him. He chewed upon this date and placed a bit in the mouth of the baby ('Tahneek')".

This was the first child whose stomach was blessed with the Mubarak saliva of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) also made du`aa for him on this occasion. Hadhrat Abdullah bin Zubair was the nephew of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), hence Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) gave her the title of Umme Abdullah.

RUKHSATI-- (THE DEPARTURE OF HADHRAT AISHA (radhiAllaahu anha) TO THE HOME OF NABI (sallallahu alaihi wasallam))

The Rukhsati of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was in the month of Shawwal. The Arabs used to regard it as a bad omen to marry in the month of Shawwal. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) says that, in order to dispel the ignorance of people, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s Nikah was made to me in Shawwal, and my Rukhsati was made in Shawwal. She says: "Tell me, who was Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s favourite wife?" This was done to dispel the evil belief that marriage in the month of Shawwal meant bad luck, and Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) intended to rid the people of this belief. Hence, there is nothing wrong in marrying in the month of Shawwal.

It is reported in Bukhari Shareef that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), that she was shown to him twice in his dreams. In one dream he saw a person carry her in an extremely beautiful silk cloth. When he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) opened the cloth, he saw Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), and said (to himself) that if this is from Allaah Ta`ala, then He will most certainly make it happen. In the second narration it appears as if the person carrying the silk cloth was an Angel.

The Rukhsati occurred as follows. Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) once asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) as to why he did not take his bride home. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that he did not have the amount for the Mehr with him. Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu) said that he will forward it as a loan to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) accepted this and he took the loan from his brides father, and paid the Mehr.

In a narration in Muslim Shareef, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) says that the normal Mehr that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) gave his wives was 12 Auqiyahs (i.e. 500 dirhams - silver coins). Today thousands are stipulated as Mehr, and if there is a small Mehr given it is regarded as a shame and a disgrace. Who can claim to be more honourable than Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu), and he gave his daughter for the amount of 500 dirhams. The best of all creations (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), gave the Mehr of 500 dirhams, and he found no shame or disgrace therein. At that time also, there was importance granted to Mehr. Because Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) did not take his wife due to the fact that he did not have the amount for Mehr. In these incidences, there are lessons for the Ummat to learn.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) explains the Rukhsati as follows: "I was playing on a swing with my friends when my mother came and called for me. I was not even aware as to why I was being called. She took hold of my hand and led me home. As I stood by the door, I was out of breath (due to hurrying to her call). There my mother took some water and washed my hands and face. Thereafter I was entered into the house. Some Ansaar women were seated in the house. Upon seeing her they said 'There is goodness in your coming and a good omen.' My mother placed me in the care of these women,( who 'Beautified' me, and thereafter they left). Then Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) came to me, and it was Chaasht time (mid-morning). This is when Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) first met his new wife." [Bukhari Shareef]

Note the simplicity of the 'ceremony'. There was no hue and cry, no horse and carriage and no great procession. There was no pomp and show, no beatified home (hall?), and no waste of money. This is also a point to note, that the bride and groom met in the bride's home. Today if such a 'wedding' be made, it will be a laughing stock. May Allaah Ta`ala save us from ignorance, and may He grant us the ability and guidance to follow the Sunnat practices of His beloved Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).

THE GREAT BENEFITS ATTAINED BY THE COMPANIONSHIP WITH RASULULLAH

(sallallahu alaihi wasallam)

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) spent 9 years in the companionship of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and in this period she attained vast oceans of knowledge. She repeatedly asked questions and made queries regarding Deeni matters, always keeping the respect and reverence of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in mind.

Hadhrat Imaam Zuhri (rahmatullahi alaihi) said, that if the knowledge of all the other wives of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and of all the women in the world was to be combined, the knowledge of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) would surpass them. Hadhrat Masrooq (rahmatullahi alaihi) who was a Tab`i, and a student of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) said that he saw such Sahabahs that were very advanced in age, who came to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) and enquired about necessary Masaa`il.

Hadhrat Abu Moosa (radhiAllaahu anhu) said that whenever, we, the companions of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had a difference regarding any Deeni matter, then we would refer to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), where we always received clarification. Besides the Taabi`een, there were many illustrious Sahabahs that were students of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha).

[NOTE: Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was extremely learned, and she was, during that era, one of the most knowledgeable. All those that were her students were so out of necessity and she imparted knowledge to them that was of important Deeni significance. There is not a shadow of doubt that Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) taught them, with a dividing screen, and she never spoke to them in her normal soft tones. She most certainly conducted herself strictly according to the dictates and regulations of the Shariah.]

QUESTIONS POSED TO NABI (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) constantly asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) questions. Once she asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), that she has two close neighbours, so when she gives any one of them a gift must she do the same for the other? Which of the two must she give preference? Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied that preference should be given to the one whose door is the closest.

Once, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) heard Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) making the following du`aa : "Oh Allaah, grant me an easy reckoning (on the day of Qiyaamah)." She asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) as to how an easy reckoning will be. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that an easy reckoning will be when one's book of deeds will be merely (lightly) perused, and one will be given leave. Then he said: "Know! Oh Aisha, if anyone's deeds will be thoroughly scrutinised, he will be (truly) destroyed."

In one narration, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) says that one day she and Hadhrat Hafsa (radhiAllaahu anha) had kept Nafl Fast, they later received food as a gift from someone and they ate therefrom. When Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) arrived, she says that Hadhrat Hafsa (radhiAllaahu anha), beat her to asking Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) the question, that they had broke a Nafl fast, and what the ruling was regarding that? Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied that both of them must keep one day fast in compensation for that one.

Once Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that on the day of Qiyaamah, people will be resurrected in the state of nakedness and uncircumcised (i.e. just like the day they were born). Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) asked if all the men and women will be in that state, and won't each of them look at the other? Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied that the condition of that day will be so severe, that no one will even think of looking at the other.

Once Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) made the following du`aa: "Oh Allaah, give me a life of a Miskeen (poor person), grant me a death in the condition that I am Miskeen, resurrect me on the day of Qiyaamah as a Miskeen."

Upon hearing this Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) why he had made such a du`aa. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied that the Miskeen will enter Jannat 40 years before the wealthy. Thereafter Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Oh Aisha, never turn away a Miskeen empty handed. If you have nothing then, even a piece of date will suffice. Oh Aisha, have affection for the Miskeen, and be close to them, so that on the day of Qiyaamah, Allaah Ta`ala may count you from amongst them." [Tirmidhi)

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) once asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) regarding the following Aayat of the Qur`aan Shareef: "Those who give in the path of Allaah Ta`ala, and their hearts are fearful that they will return unto Allaah." She asked regarding the identity of these people, if they will be those who consume alcohol, or those who steal. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "No, Oh daughter of Siddeeq. Those people who keep fast, perform Salaat, and give charity, they fear that their actions will not be accepted. These are the ones regarding who, Allaah Ta`ala says; 'These are the ones who hasten in doing good actions.'"

Once Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)said that the person who is desirous of meeting Allaah Ta`ala, Allaah Ta`ala is desirous of meeting him. The person who is undesirous of meeting Allaah Ta`ala, Allaah Ta`ala is undesirous of meeting him. Upon hearing this Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) said that all of us are (naturally) apprehensive of death (i.e. all of us have a natural fear of dying, does it imply that as we do not wish to die, does Allaah Ta`ala also dislike us?). Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that it does not refer to those who have a natural apprehension of death. It means that when a believer nears death, he yearns for it after he has been given the glad tidings, and he hopes to meet Allaah Ta`ala, and Allaah Ta`ala wants to meet him as well. Whereas the Kaafir, when he nears his final hour, he is given the news of his impending punishment, and he dreads the meeting with Allaah Ta`ala, and Allaah Ta`ala also dislikes meeting him.

Once Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), if Jihad is also necessary for females. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that the Jihad which is for the women, is one where there is no fighting, i.e. Hajj and Umrah.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) once asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) whether (It is true) any person will not enter Jannat, without Allaah Ta`ala's Mercy. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that no person will enter Jannat, except with Allaah Ta`ala's Mercy. He said this thrice. Then, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) if even he will not enter Jannat without Allaah Ta`ala's Mercy. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) held his head and said: "I (will also not enter Jannat) except that Allaah Ta`ala enshrouds me with his Mercy." Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said this thrice.

Once Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), that if she found the night of Lailatul Qadr, then what du`aa should be read. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that the following must be read: "Allaahumma Innaka Afwun, Tuhibbul Afwa Fa`foo An ni." [Oh Allaah, verily You are the Forgiver (of sins), You love to forgive, therefore forgive me.]

NABI (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'S AFFECTION FOR HADHRAT AISHA (radhiAllaahu anha)

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had a greater affection for Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) than his other wives. Hadhrat Amar bin Aas (radhiAllaahu anhu) once asked Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) as to who he had the most affection for. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Aisha". This question was repeated, and he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was asked regarding the men for whom he had the most affection. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Aisha's father".

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) never forewent the rights of any of his other wives, notwithstanding his greater affection for Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha). He fully respected and executed the rights of the other wives. A person's natural inclination for someone is an involuntary action. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to make the following du`aa: "Oh Allaah, this is my share from the things in my control, hence do not reprove me for that which is not in my control." That is, natural inclination is an involuntary action, I have no choice in exercising fairness therein.

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was sent as a guide to mankind, therefore Allaah Ta`ala, sometimes placed such conditions upon him, so that mankind may take lesson and find a solution. A man may take four wives, and for a person who makes amal on this, he may find a lesson in the life of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). If a person has a natural inclination towards one of the wives, then this is not abnormal, but he must equally carry out the rights of all of them. If he errs in equality between the wives, then he will be punishable. There is a narration in Tirmidhi Shareef, that the person who has two wives and he does not practice equality between them, he will be paralysed on his one side on the day of Qiyaamah.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION TO TARBIYAT (UPBRINGING/ NURTURING)

Although Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had great love and affection for Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), he payed attention to her Tarbiyat and admonished her when the occasion arose. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) mentions that once when Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) went on an expedition, she placed beautiful purdah (curtain) on the wall. When Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) returned, he caught hold of the cloth with such force and pulled it that it tore. He said: "Undoubtedly, Allaah Ta`ala has not ordered us, that we clothe stone and sand." [Mishkaat Shareef]

Once a few jewish women came to Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) and greeted him with "As-Saam alaikum" instead of "As-salaamu alaikum" - "Saam" means death, hence they were cursing Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). In reply, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Wa Alaikum" - i.e death upon you as well. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), who was also present said to them in anger, and severely admonished them, "As-Saam Alaikum, Wa La`anakumullaah, Wa Ghadiba Alaikum" -(i.e. death upon you, Allaah Ta`ala's curse upon you, and Allaah Ta`ala's anger upon you).

Upon hearing this Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Oh Aisha, hold it, adopt tenderness, and save yourself from bad speech". She said: "You did not hear what they said". Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "You had not heard what reply I gave, I turned upon them what they had said to me. Allaah Ta`ala has turned their curse upon themselves, and it will not affect me." [Mishkaat Shareef]

Once Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), satirized at Hadhrat Safiyya (radhiAllaahu anha), by indicating with her hands that Hadhrat Safiyya (radhiAllaahu anha) was short. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) immediately admonished her by saying: "Know, that (words) what you have said, if it were to be placed in the sea, it would spoil it." [Ibid]

Once, whilst Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was making rotis (bread), she feel asleep and the neighbours goat came in and ate the rotis. When she awoke, she gave chase to the goat. When Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) saw this he said; "Oh Aisha, do not trouble the neighbours on account of their goat."

MISCELLANEOUS ADVICES

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to often advice her (Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) ) regarding Zuhd (abstinence regarding worldly matters) and contemplation in the Aakhirah. Once he said to her: "Oh Aisha, save yourself from small sins as well, because this is also accountable to Allaah Ta`ala." [Mishkaat Shareef]

Once, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha): "Oh Aisha, if you wish to be with me in Jannat, then you should suffice in this world with that much of possessions, that a traveller has. Save yourself from the company of the wealthy. Do not refrain from wearing any clothing because of it's being old, until you have patched it (i.e. clothing must be patched and worn)." [Ibid]

Hadhrat Urwa bin Zubair (radhiAllaahu anhu) used to say: "My beloved Aunt use to practise upon this advice of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). She would not have new clothing made for her, until the old clothing were patched and worn or completely old and tattered."

Katheer bin Ubaid says that once he came to Ummul Mu`mineen, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), and she was busy putting patches on her clothes. She told him to wait a little, until she was finished. After she completed her work, she spoke to him. During the conversation, he said: "Oh Ummul Mu`mineen, if I tell the people that you were patching your clothes, they would think of you as being a miser." She replied saying: "Talk with understanding. The reality is this; what satisfaction (and pleasure) can there be in wearing new clothes when the old ones have not been worn out."

WORDS OF WISDOM AND COUNSEL

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was one with great wisdom and counsel. She used to speak with deep knowledge. Many Sahabahs used to refer to her for counsel.

Regarding over-eating, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) said: " The first misfortune to befall this Ummat after the demise of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), is that they eat until their stomachs are full. When the stomach is filled, then the body becomes huge and the heart becomes weak. A person's carnal desires then overtake him." [Targheeb Wat Tarheeb]

Once she said: "There is no better wealth for one to bring before Allaah Ta`ala, other than a minimal of sins. Therefore, save yourselves from sinning."

Hadhrat Mu`aawiya (radhiAllahu anhu) once wrote to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), asking for advice. She replied:

"Assalaamu Alaik,

Verily I heard Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) saying: ' That person who seeks the pleasure of Allaah Ta`ala, when the creation may be displeased, Allaah Ta`ala will be sufficient for him against the plots (and harms) of people. That person who pleases the people, whilst courting the displeasure of Allaah Ta`ala, then Allaah Ta`ala hands him over to the people (i.e he is deprived of Divine Assistance).'

Was Salaam Alaik" [Mishkaat Shareef]

On another occasion, she wrote to Hadhrat Mu`aawiya (radhiAllaahu anhu) - probably in reply to his letter - :

"When a servant (of Allaah Ta`ala), carries out a sin, then his admirers (those who speak well of him) start speaking ill of him."

DISSEMINATING KNOWLEDGE

After the demise of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam),Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was extremely instrumental in the disseminating of Deeni knowledge. She had many students (approx. 200 +), of whom many were Sahabahs and others Tabi`een. She passed away in the year 58 A.H., hence she spread knowledge for about 48 years after the demise of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). The Muhadditheen have recorded about 2210 Narrations from her.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) disseminated her knowledge with great wisdom and successfully. She educated the children, woman and Mahram men in the form of Majaalis (educational gatherings). She imparted her knowledge to Ghair-Mahram men, from behind a purdah (screen). She was asked many questions and she answered them. Occasionally, she would send the questioner to a Sahabi or to another of the wives of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). If someone felt shy to ask a question, she would say that they must ask without any embarrassment.

She performed Hajj every year. People from all over used to come and stand outside her tent and ask questions, and she answered them.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) was counted amongst those eminent Sahabahs, who were regarded as Muftis. She was a Mufti, even during the Khilaafat of her beloved father, Hadhrat Abu Bakr (radhiAllaahu anhu). Hadhrat Umar and Uthmaan (radhiAllaahu anhuma) used to send people to her to enquire, regarding any mas`ala. Hadhrat Mu`aawiya (radhiAllaahu anhu), whilst he was governor in Dimishk, used to send a messenger to Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) if he wanted to know something, and he used to practice upon her advice. The messenger used to travel from Shaam, and come to Madinah Munawwarah, he should stand outside her door, ask the question and return with the answer.

Many people used to send her letters, an thereby ask questions, and she used to reply. Hadhrat Aisha binti Talha (radhiAllaahu anha), who was a special student of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), said:

"People used to write from far and wide, and they used to send gifts. I asked Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha): 'Oh Khala (term of endearment), this letter and gift comes from so and so (what should I do?)'. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) used to say: 'Reply to it and send a gift in return.'"

The Fatwas of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha), appear in the kitaabs of Hadith. People used to ask her regarding Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s personal life and habits, and she used to answer without reservations, because, whatever Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) taught and practised was from Allaah Ta`ala. There is no part of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s life, which his pure wives concealed.

Hadhrat Aswad (radhiAllaahu anhu) asked Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) regarding what Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to do at home. She replied that he used to busy himself with work to be done at home, when the time for Salaat drew near, he used to go for Salaat. Once, she expounded on this by saying that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to repair his shoes and sew his clothes, and he used to do the work of the house, as any anyone else does house-work.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) also said that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was a human being like any human being. He used to milk his goat and he used to do his own work.

Once Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) said: "Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) did not speak as you people speak, in fact his speech was very cultured, in that he said every word separately. Those who sat close to him could clearly understand and memorise his every word."

Once, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) mentioned the following, regarding Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s laughter, that she never saw Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s Mubarak teeth or gums when he laughed, such that his uvula became visible. He always merely smiled (or laughed very lightly)."

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) also mentioned the following regarding the character of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), that he never struck anyone with his Mubarak hands, neither his wives nor his slaves. Yes, whilst in Jihaad, his striking the enemies of Allaah Ta`ala, was a different issue. If anyone harmed him he never took retribution. Yes, if anyone did anything against the orders of Allaah Ta`ala, then he would carry out the relevant (Shar`i) punishment.

Hadhrat Sa`ad bin Hishaam (rahmatullahi alaihi) said that once he came in the service of Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllaahu anha) and asked her regarding the habits and characters of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). She replied: "Did you not read the Qur`aan Shareef?" He replied in the affirmative. She said: "The life of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was the Qur`aan-e-Paak."

Hadhrat Abdul Aziz bin Juraij (radhiAllahu anhu) one asked Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) regarding the Surahs read by Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in Witr Salaat. Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) replied that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to recite Surah A`la in the first Rakaat, Surah Kaafiroon in the second and Surah Ikhlaas in the third.

Hadhrat Ghadeef bin Haarith (radhiAllahu anhu) once asked Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha), that when Ghusal (bath) became obligatory upon Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), would he bath in the first or last portion of the night? She replied that sometimes he would bath in the first portion of the night and sometimes in the last portion. Upon hearing this Hadhrat Ghadeef said : "Allaahu Akbar, Alhamdulillahillazi ja`ala fil amri Sa`a" (Allaah Ta`ala is the Greatest, all praise be to the Being who has made easiness in the matter).

Then he asked whether Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) read Witr in the first or last portion of the night? She replied, that sometimes he read it during the first portion and sometimes during the last portion. Upon hearing this Hadhrat Ghadeef exclaimed as he had done before. Amongst the other questions he asked was whether Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) read loud or soft Qira`at in the Nafl Salaats at night? She replied that sometimes loud and sometimes soft.

Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) knew that the life of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) was an example for all Muslims to witness, hence she safeguarded his every act and speech and narrated it for the benefit of the Ummat. There are many narrations by Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) regarding Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)'s night and 'after-hours' activities.

In one narration, Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) mentions that after Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to complete his Tahajjud Salaat, he used to read the two Sunnats of Fajr, and by then she would be awake, so Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to speak to her, or otherwise he would rest upon his right-hand side.

She also said that when Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used to read his Tahajjud Salaat, he would begin by reading two short Rakaats (thereafter he would read long Surahs). Hadhrat Aisha (radhiAllahu anha) mentions that from amongst the non-Fardh Salaats, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) never granted as much consideration, as he used to grant to the two (Sunnat) Rakaats of Fajr Salaat.

She also reports Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) as saying that, the two Rakaats of Fajr are better that the whole world and whatever it contains.