Sayyida Khadija (sa): Grace, Strength, and Generosity

Lady Khadija (sa), the noble wife of Prophet Muhammad (saww), holds a revered place in Islamic history as a woman of extraordinary character and faith.

As Umm Al-Mumineen (Mother of the Believers), she was the first to embrace Islam and remained an unwavering source of strength for The Prophet (saww) throughout her life.

Early Life and Marriage

Born around 555 AD, 15 years before Am al-Fil, Sayyida Khadija (sa) was raised in Mecca by her parents, Khuwaylid ibn Asad ibn Abd al-Uzza and Fatima bint Za’ida.

While details of her early life are limited, historians agree that she was a highly successful and influential businesswoman. She managed her own trade enterprise, employed numerous people, and was known for her wisdom and leadership.

Ibn Sayyid al-Nas describes her as “a lady of great honor and intelligence, who was divinely blessed. Though she was not from the highest lineage, her noble character and accomplishments set her apart.”

Her marriage to Prophet Muhammad (saww) marked the beginning of an inspiring partnership. Their initial relationship was built through business dealings, as Lady Khadija (sa) observed The Prophet’s (saww) exceptional morals and honesty, entrusting him with her wealth.

Following a trade journey to Syria, where he further established his reputation for integrity, Lady Khadija (sa) expressed her desire to marry him. She became his first wife, and he remained deeply devoted to her, never taking another wife during her lifetime.

Supporting the Message of Islam

Lady Khadija’s (sa) contribution to Islam was immeasurable. She not only stood beside The Prophet (saww) during the most challenging times but also played a crucial role in financially sustaining the early Muslim community.

The Qur’an states: “Did He not find you destitute and enrich you?” [93:8]. The Prophet (saww) himself acknowledged her generosity, saying: “No wealth ever benefited me as much as Khadija’s (sa) wealth” [Majlisī, Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 19, p. 63].

Her resources were used to help the less fortunate, support orphans, relieve people of debt, and promote the values of Islam.

The Prophet (saww) also described her unparalleled devotion: “Allah (swt) did not give me a better wife than her; she believed in me when others denied me, supported me with her wealth when I had nothing, and Allah (swt) granted me children through her, while no other wife bore me children” [Al-Shaykh al-Mufid, al-Ifsah, p. 217].

Lady Khadija (sa) passed away in 619 AD (4 BH). It is narrated that Prophet Muhammad (saww) personally enshrouded her first in his cloak and then in a garment from Paradise before laying her to rest in Al-Ma’lat Cemetery (Jannat Al-Mu’alla), near Mount Al-Hajun.

A Lasting Impact and Link to Ahlul Bayt (as)

The legacy of Sayyida Khadija (sa) remains alive in the hearts of Muslims today. Her devotion to Islam, her charity, and her strength continue to inspire generations.

Her daughter, Lady Fatima (sa), inherited the best qualities of both parents and became a leading figure in the Ahlul Bayt (as). Through Lady Fatima Al-Zahra (sa) and her descendants, Sayyida Khadija’s (sa) legacy of faith and sacrifice continues to shape the Islamic world.

At The Zahra Trust Canada, we are committed to honouring Sayyida Khadija’s (sa) legacy by caring for those in need. Join us in continuing her mission — click here to learn how you can contribute.