“Mothers of the Believers” or “Umm-ul-Momineen اُمُّ المومِنِین” is the honorable title bestowed upon the wives of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These esteemed women, including Khadijah, Aisha, and others, hold a special place in Islamic history, serving as role models of faith, wisdom, and devotion. Their lives and teachings continue to inspire millions of believers worldwide, exemplifying the essence of piety and love within the Islamic faith.
Khadijah Bint Khuwaylid (R.A) – (b.556 – d.619 CE)
Khadijah was the beloved first wife of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Born in the prominent Quraish tribe of Mecca, she was notable for her beauty, intelligence, and noble character. Widely respected as a successful businesswoman, she was known as “Al-Tahirah” (the Pure One) and “Al-Siddiqah” (the Truthful) for her impeccable honesty and integrity. When the Prophet was 25 and Khadijah was 40, they entered into a sacred union that blossomed into a profound love. Khadijah was the devoted mother of the Prophet’s children and his constant source of comfort and support. Her passing in 619 CE marked a deep loss for the Prophet, as she had been his pillar of strength during the early years of Islam.
Sawdah Bint Zam’a (R.A) – (b.589 – d.674 CE)
Sawdah, also known as Umm Ruman, belonged to the Banu Amr tribe. Prior to her marriage with the Prophet, she was married to Al-Sakran ibn Amr, a companion of the Prophet. After the passing of her husband and Khadijah, the Prophet (PBUH) proposed to Sawdah as an act of kindness and to provide for her welfare. Despite the age difference, her noble character and steadfast faith made her an esteemed member of the Prophet’s household. She was a source of solace and compassion to the Prophet during times of hardship.
Aisha Bint Abi Bakr (R.A) – (b.612 – d.678 CE)
Aisha, the daughter of Abu Bakr Siddiq, hailed from the noble Banu Taym clan. At the time of her engagement, she was six years old, and the marriage was consummated when she was nine years old. Despite her young age, Aisha exhibited exceptional intelligence, knowledge, and wit, earning her the title of “Umm al-Mu’minin” (Mother of the Believers). She became a renowned scholar, contributing immensely to the understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and Hadith. Her deep love for the Prophet and her impeccable memory made her one of the most significant narrators of Hadith.
Hafsa Bint Umar (R.A) – (b.605 – d.665 CE)
Hafsa, the daughter of the second Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab, belonged to the Banu Adi tribe. She was married to Khunais ibn Hudhaifah before becoming widowed, and then place her name among the wives of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Hafsa was known for her strong character, deep knowledge of the Quran, and commitment to prayer. She played a crucial role in preserving parts of the Quran during her time as a wife of the Prophet.
Zaynab Bint Khuzaymah (R.A) – (b.595 – d.624)
Zaynab, a member of the Banu Hilal tribe, was known for her piety and charitable nature. Before marrying the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), she had been widowed twice, which earned her the nickname “Umm al-Masaib” (Mother of Hardships). The Prophet’s marriage to Zaynab was relatively short-lived, as she passed away just eight months into the marriage. Despite the brevity, her devotion and faith left a lasting impression on the Prophet.
Umm Salamah Hind Bint Abi Umayyah (R.A) – (b.596 – d.680 CE)
Umm Salamah belonged to the Banu Makhzum tribe and was married to Abu Salamah before accepting Islam. After her husband’s passing, she faced immense hardship. But her unwavering faith and resilience earned her the admiration of the Prophet. Umm Salamah was known for her wisdom and ability to mediate disputes, and her marriage to the Prophet became a symbol of reconciliation and unity.
Zaynab Bint Jahsh (R.A) – (b.590 – d.641 CE)
Zaynab was the cousin of the Prophet and belonged to the Banu Hashim clan. Before marrying the Prophet, she had been wedded to Zayd ibn Harithah, who was not only a freed slave but also an adopted son of the Prophet. Their marriage was meant to break social barriers and demonstrate the equality of all believers in the eyes of God. Her marriage to Zayd eventually ended in divorce, and later, she married the Prophet. Zaynab was renowned for her generosity and her compassionate acts towards the poor and needy people.
Juwayriyah Bint al-Haarith (R.A) – (b.608 – d.673 CE)
Juwayriyah belonged to the Banu Mustaliq tribe, and she was taken as a captive during a battle. The Prophet (PBUH) freed her and offered her the choice to return to her people or join the Muslim community. Deeply moved by his kindness, she chose to marry the Prophet and embrace Islam wholeheartedly. Juwayriyah’s marriage to the Prophet not only granted her freedom but also brought reconciliation between the Muslims and her tribe. Her kind and compassionate nature made her beloved among the Prophet’s wives and companions.
Umm Habibah Bint Abu Sufyan (R.A) – (b.589 – d.666 CE)
Umm Habibah was the daughter of Abu Sufyan, a prominent figure of the Quraysh and a staunch opponent of Islam initially. Despite being married to Ubaydullah ibn Jahsh, who apostatized from Islam and left her in exile, Umm-ul-Momineen Habibah held firm to her faith. Upon hearing about her plight, the Prophet (PBUH) sent a proposal of marriage to her while she was in Abyssinia. She accepted the proposal, and their marriage brought joy and happiness to her heart. Umm Habibah’s resilience and steadfastness in the face of adversity serve as an inspiring example for believers.
Safiyyah Bint Huyayy Ibn Akhtab (R.A) – (b.610 – d.670 CE)
Safiyyah was from the Jewish tribe of Banu Nadir and was taken as a captive during a military campaign. The Prophet (PBUH) set her free and offered her marriage, which she accepted willingly. Through this marriage, the Prophet honored her and established a bond of love and compassion. Safiyyah embraced Islam wholeheartedly, and her strong faith and devotion to the Prophet became evident to all around her. Her marriage to the Prophet dispelled prejudices and fostered harmony between the Muslim community and the Jewish tribes.
Maymunah Bint Al-Haarith (R.A) – (b.594 – d.674 CE)
Maymunah was from the Banu Hilal tribe and is one of the Wives of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Umm-ul-Momineen was previously married to Abu Rahm, who passed away during a journey to Mecca. The Prophet (PBUH) proposed to Maymunah during a time of profound sadness in her life. Their marriage took place in the holy city of Mecca, bringing immense joy and blessings to her life. Maymunah was known for her generosity and care towards her relatives, and her marriage to the Prophet added yet another example of his magnanimity and love for all people.