Women in Islam: A Legacy of Faith and Strength
March 8, 2025, marks International Women's Day; it's important that we remember the remarkable Muslim women who shaped our Islamic history through their faith, wisdom, and resilience.
Islam is a religion that has consistently elevated the status of women, granting them rights to education, financial independence, and spiritual excellence.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Sufficient for you among the women of mankind are Mariam bint' Imran, Khadijah bint Khuwailid, Fatimah bint Muhammad and Asiyah the wife of Fir'awn."
(Al-Tirmidhi)
These women's strength, faith, and compassion these women embody serve as an inspiration for women everywhere. Today, Muslim Hands USA continues its legacy by empowering women through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid: The Backbone of Islam
Khadijah was the first believer in Islam and the strongest supporter of the Prophet Muhammad(PBUH). Khadijah (R.A) was not just the first woman in Islam but a successful merchant known for her wisdom, generosity, unwavering faith, and devotion to the Prophet and Islam.
When the Prophet (PBUH) received his first revelation, he was terrified and ran home to Khadijah (R.A) crying, 'Cover me! Cover me!'. She stayed by his side, comforting him until he could calm down.
Khadija was a woman of strength, and despite facing hardship and persecution, she sacrificed everything for Islam.
Even after her passing, the love for Khadijia was so profound that he kept sending food and support to her family and friends.
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"She believed in me while the people disbelieved in me. And she trusted in me while the people belied me. And she helped and comforted me in person and in wealth when the people would not. Allah provided me with children by her, and He did not with others."
(Musnad Imam Ahmad 6:118)
Aisha bint Abu Bakr: The Scholar and Teacher
Aisha was a remarkable woman of her time. She was a fantastic scholar of Islam, known for her intelligence and deep understanding of the Quran and Hadith. She narrated more than 2,200 hadiths, shaping our understanding of Islamic knowledge.
She was also a respected teacher. Many companions sought her guidance on religious matters, proving that women in Islam have always played an active role in education and leadership.
When the Prophet was asked who was most beloved to him, he replied:
“Aisha.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Maryam bint Imran: A Mother
Maryam, the mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus), is the only woman mentioned and honored in the Quran for her purity, devotion, and unwavering faith. She dedicated her life to worship and was chosen by Allah for a miraculous birth.
Maryam's (AS) life changed when an angel appeared before her, telling her she would bear a son without a father. It was a test unlike any other, but Maryam (AS) responded with unwavering trust in Allah (SWT).
Despite knowing the judgment and rejection she would face from her people, she accepted Allah's decree with patience and dignity.
Maryam (AS) labored at a palm tree, her body wracked with pain, her heart heavy with fear. She was utterly alone, with no home, no midwife, no comforting hands, only Allah (SWT) to witness her agony.
In that moment of unbearable sorrow, she cried out:
"Oh, I wish I had died before this and was in oblivion, forgotten."
(Quran 19:23)
But Allah's mercy is endless. A voice called out, soothing her despair. A spring of water flowed at her feet, and dates fell from the barren tree.
She held her newborn son, Isa (AS), knowing the world would judge her, knowing the whispers would begin. But she walked forward silently, for Allah (SWT) had already prepared her answer.
And then, a miracle, the infant spoke, clearing her name and declaring his prophethood.
From pain to peace, from fear to faith, her trial was a testament to the power of trusting in Allah (SWT).
Her story is a reminder that mothers in Islam hold a position of great dignity and spiritual strength.
The Quran describes her as a role model for believers:
"And Maryam, the daughter of 'Imran, who guarded her chastity... and was of the devoutly obedient."
(Quran 66:12)
Asiyah, Wife of Pharaoh: The Woman of Strength
Asiyah was the wife of Pharaoh, one of the most oppressive rulers in history. Despite living in wealth and power, she chose faith over luxury, believing in the message of Prophet Musa (Moses).
She endured torture for her faith but remained steadfast, praying:
"My Lord, build for me near You a house in Paradise and save me from Pharaoh and his deeds."
(Quran 66:11)
Her story is a reminder that true strength lies in faith, not status or material wealth.
Fatimah bint Muhammad: The Leader of Women in Paradise
Fatimah was the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, known for her humility, kindness, and devotion. She endured hardship patiently and remained a source of comfort for her father.
The Prophet (saw) said about her:
"Fatimah is a part of me, and he who makes her angry, makes me angry."
(Sahih Bukhari)
She was also a dedicated mother, raising Hassan and Hussain, who carried forward the noble legacy of Islam.
Sumayyah bint Khayyat: The First Martyr in Islam
Sumayyah was among the earliest converts to Islam and the first person to give her life for her faith. She was brutally tortured by the Quraysh but refused to renounce Islam.
She was martyred for her belief in Allah, making her a symbol of unwavering faith and courage.
Zaynab bint Ali
Zaynab, the granddaughter of the Prophet, played a crucial role in preserving the truth about the Battle of Karbala. After the tragic loss of her brother Hussain, she delivered powerful speeches against injustice, ensuring his sacrifice was never forgotten.
Her resilience in tragedy reminds us that Muslim women have always stood for justice and truth.
Nusaybah bint Ka‘b: The Warrior of Islam
Nusaybah was among the few female warriors who defended the Prophet in battle. She fought courageously in the Battle of Uhud, sustaining injuries while protecting him.
Her story proves that women in Islam played active roles in defending their faith.
Honoring Their Legacy Today
Women have taken on roles of every kind, from businesswomen to mothers, daughters, warriors, and keepers of faith. The incredible women in Islam show that no matter your role in this dunya, you are incredible in every way.
At Muslim Hands USA, we continue their mission by:
- Providing education for girls in underserved communities
- Offering healthcare and maternal support for women in need
- Creating livelihood opportunities for widows and single mothers
- Delivering urgent aid to women in crisis zones
Support Women in Need
This International Women's Day, honor the legacy of Muslim women by supporting those in need. Your donation can educate a young girl, provide medical aid to a mother, or help a widow start a business.
Give today and empower the next generation of women in Islam.
