Khadijah: An Example for All Women
While coronavirus has rightfully taken center stage these days, we are currently winding down the month of March — also known as Women’s History Month. Women in all capacities have impacted the world throughout history to make it a better place. And sometimes, we look around for current role models who we can look up to. But as a Muslim girl, I take a step back into the past and look up to someone who inspires me: Khadija (may God be pleased with her), wife of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him).
Khadijah was a successful and wealthy businesswoman. After her father passed away, she was able to take over his business and worked in a male-dominated society. She became very influential. Her ability to work and navigate the business world as a single mother and a widow during difficult times demonstrates that girls and women like me can perform tasks that any man can. She married the Prophet Muhammad after meeting him when he agreed to work for her and manage her caravans. He was 15 years younger. Khadijah did not receive a marriage proposal from him, but rather, sent a marriage proposal herself. For Khadijah, the age difference nor their difference in economic status mattered. She preferred his honesty and character. In modern society, there are many standards held when looking for a spouse, however, Khadija broke all those norms during a time when women had no rights or freedoms. Lastly, something that sets her out from other women for me is that she was the first person and woman to accept Islam. She could have denied her husband or could have gone against him, however, her trust and loyalty for him led her into taking this action.
Khadijah made many sacrifices, had a remarkable character, was faithful and is an example for all women and girls to follow. Her courage, strength, and confidence to stand for what she believed in makes her a role model for all times. We will all have to face societal norms, challenging work environments, and people who do not believe in our strengths as women and girls. In those moments, I hope to remember the example of Khadija, whose influence will last for generations to come.
