06/03/2021
1. Mutual respect, support, and partnership
The Prophet's relationship with his first wife, Khadija, has been written about hundreds of times. Their relationship lasted for 25 years until Khadija's death and was one full of love as much as a deep and mutual respect. According to Aisha, the Prophet's 2nd wife, he reportedly held her in such high esteem that:
" I [Aisha] never felt so jealous of any woman as I felt of Khadija, for Allah ordered him (the Prophet) to give Khadija the glad tidings of a palace in Paradise (for her)." [Sahih al-Bukhari]
The companion Ali also reported that:
"I heard the Prophet saying, "Mary, the daughter of `Imran, was the best among the women (of the world of her time) and Khadija is the best amongst the women. (of this nation)." [Sahih al-Bukhari]
The fact that they were 15 years apart (with Khadija being 40 when they were married) and her standing as a successful businesswoman did not weaken the marriage. If anything, Khadija's strong spirit was what allowed her to support him through difficult periods and their love was strengthened by being able to depend on each other as equals. Reported Aisha:
"Then the Prophet returned therewith, his heart was trembling, and he went to Khadija and said: Wrap me up, wrap me up! So they wrapped him till the fear had left him. He then said to Khadija: O Khadija! what has happened to me? and he informed her of the happening, saying: I fear for myself. She replied: It can't be. Be happy. I swear by Allah that He shall never humiliate you. By Allah, you join ties of relationship, you speak the truth, you bear people's burden, you help the destitute, you entertain guests, and you help against the vicissitudes which affect people."
Her high impression of him never wavered, even when he received his first Revelation as Prophet - instead, Khadija believed in her husband so much that she even converted to Islam and supported him. ❤️ We can take lessons not only from the Prophet but from Khadija as well, on supporting our significant others through their own journeys no matter the difficulty or obstacles that may arise.