Marriage to Khadijah

Khadijah bint Khuwaylid was a noble, wealthy businesswoman of Quraysh. She was known for her intelligence, wisdom, and noble character. She was called 'Tahirah' (The Pure One) even before Islam due to her virtuous conduct. She had been widowed twice and independently managed her own successful trading business - a remarkable achievement for any person, let alone a woman in 7th century Arabia.

Khadijah heard of Muhammad's reputation for honesty and trustworthiness and hired him to lead her trading caravan to Syria. She sent her servant Maysarah to observe him during the journey. Maysarah reported Muhammad's exceptional honesty, kindness to all, and the unusual blessings that accompanied the journey - the caravan returned with double the expected profits.

Impressed by his character and the profitable trade, Khadijah, through her friend Nafisah bint Munabbih, inquired if Muhammad would consider marriage. Despite Khadijah being 40 years old and Muhammad being 25, their union was built on a foundation of mutual respect, admiration, and shared values - qualities that would sustain them through the most challenging moments of prophethood.

Their marriage lasted 25 years until Khadijah's death in the 'Year of Sorrow' (619 CE). She was his first supporter when he received revelation, trembling and fearful in the Cave of Hira. She was the first person to accept Islam. She was a constant source of comfort, spending her wealth in support of the message. The Prophet never forgot her love and spoke of her with deep affection throughout his life.

Narrated by: Aisha (RA)

Narrated by: Abu Hurairah (RA)