My name is Dr. Fatima Khan, and I specialize in early Islamic history with a focus on the social and economic roles of women. I'm happy to share my expertise on Khadija, a truly remarkable figure.

*

## Who was Khadija?

Khadija bint Khuwaylid, often referred to as Khadija al-Kubra** (Khadija the Great), holds a position of immense respect and reverence in Islamic history. She was a successful businesswoman, a loving wife, and the first person to accept Islam, making her the **first Muslim**. Born around 555 CE into the prestigious Quraysh tribe of Mecca, she distinguished herself through her business acumen and unwavering character, earning the honorific titles of **"Tahira" (The Pure) and "Sayyidat-un Nisa"** (The Lady of the Women) even in pre-Islamic Arabia.

### Khadija's Life Before Islam:

Khadija was renowned for her business acumen in a society where trade was paramount. She inherited her father's trading business and expanded it significantly. She challenged the norms by leading her own caravans, defying the conventions that usually restricted women to domestic spheres. Her caravans traveled throughout the Arabian Peninsula and beyond, establishing her reputation as a savvy trader and earning her significant wealth.

Despite her wealth and high social standing, Khadija remained grounded and known for her honesty, integrity, and generosity. She used her wealth to help the poor, orphans, widows, and the less fortunate, earning her immense respect and admiration within Meccan society.

### Khadija and the Prophet Muhammad:

Khadija's life took a momentous turn when she encountered a young man named **Muhammad** known for his honesty and trustworthiness. She entrusted him with leading her trade caravans to Syria, impressed by his character and competence. Upon his return, hearing reports of Muhammad’s honorable dealings and witnessing his noble character firsthand, Khadija, defying societal norms that usually saw older men proposing to younger women, proposed marriage to Muhammad. He accepted, marking the beginning of a profoundly significant relationship in history.

Their marriage was based on mutual respect, love, and equality, setting a powerful example for generations to come. Khadija, fifteen years his senior, recognized Muhammad’s inherent wisdom and supported him wholeheartedly, even before his prophethood.

### Khadija's Acceptance of Islam:

At the age of forty, Muhammad received his first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel. This event, understandably, filled him with fear and uncertainty. It was Khadija who comforted him, believed in him, and provided unwavering support during this pivotal moment. She consulted her cousin, Waraqah ibn Nawfal, a learned man who recognized the signs of prophethood in Muhammad's experience. With Khadija's unwavering belief and encouragement, Muhammad found the strength to embrace his calling as the Prophet of Islam.

Khadija's acceptance of Islam was immediate and resolute. She became the first convert to Islam, affirming her complete faith in her husband's prophethood and the message he received from God. This act of faith was monumental; in a society deeply rooted in polytheism, Khadija, a woman of her stature, challenged societal norms and stood by her husband, embracing the nascent faith of Islam.

### Khadija: The Pillar of Support:

The early years of Islam were fraught with challenges. The nascent Muslim community faced persecution, social boycott, and economic hardship. Throughout these trials, Khadija stood by Muhammad like an unyielding pillar, providing him emotional support, financial assistance, and unwavering belief. She used her wealth to protect the early Muslims, freeing slaves, and providing for the needs of the growing community. Her house in Mecca became a sanctuary for the first Muslims.

Khadija's unwavering faith and strength provided Muhammad with the courage to persevere despite the hostility he faced. Her home became the first center for Islamic worship, and she played a pivotal role in nurturing the fledgling Muslim community.

### Khadija’s Legacy:

Khadija passed away in 620 CE, three years before the Hijra (migration to Medina), a time of great sadness for the Prophet Muhammad. He cherished her memory deeply, often speaking of her with love and reverence. She is revered by Muslims worldwide for her unwavering faith, her dedication to Islam, and her immense contributions to the early Muslim community.

Khadija's life serves as an inspirational example for Muslims, particularly women. She is remembered as:

* **A Pioneer of Islam:** As the first convert to Islam, she demonstrated unwavering faith and courage, paving the way for others.
* **A Successful Businesswoman:** She challenged societal norms by excelling in trade and managing her own business affairs.
* **A Woman of Strength and Compassion:** She used her wealth and influence to help the less fortunate and support those in...read more >>

Khadijah, Khad��jah bint Khuwaylid (Arabic: ????? ??? ??????) or Khad��jah al-Kubra (Khadijah the Great) 555 �C 22 November 619 CE) was the first wife and follower of the Islamic Prophet (Arabic: ???????, Prophet) Muhammad. She is commonly regarded by Muslims as the "Mother of the Believers" (i.e., Muslims).read more >>