Aishah Bint Abi Bakr: A Symbol of Feminine Excellence

Study Notes

Aishah's life is proof that a woman can be more learned than men and be a teacher of scholars and experts.
She was a source of inspiration and leadership to men and women, and was totally feminine, providing pleasure, joy, and comfort to her husband.

Aishah was brought up by her father, Abu Bakr, who was a man of wide knowledge, gentle manners, and an agreeable presence.
The Prophet Muhammad was a frequent visitor to their home since the early days of his mission.
Aishah acquired knowledge and insight from the Prophet, her husband and close companion.

Aishah became the Prophet's wife in Makkah when she was around 10 years old, but her wedding did not take place until the second year after the Hijrah when she was around 14 or 15 years old.
Before and after her wedding, she maintained a natural jollity and innocence, not seeming overawed by being married to the Prophet.

Aishah's wedding was a simple and solemn occasion, with no wedding feast.
She related that she was playing on a see-saw when she was taken to be prepared for her wedding.
She wore a wedding-dress made from fine red-striped cloth from Bahrain.
The Prophet drank milk from a bowl and offered it to Aishah, who shyly declined but then accepted it.
Marriage to the Prophet did not change her playful ways, and she continued to play with her friends and dolls.

The Prophet would join in Aishah's games and was pleased to have her friends visit her.
He would sometimes say "Stay where you are" to her friends before they had time to leave, and would also join in their games.
Aishah said that the Prophet laughed when he saw her playing with dolls and asked what game it was.