An intelligent woman, a sincere philanthropist, a pious soul, a patient human, a devoted wife, a caring spouse, a loyal partner, a loving mother, an expert homemaker… The Ideal Woman and a dream for many… This was Sayyidah Khadeejah Al-Kubraa (radhiyallahu ‘anha).
Indeed, this ‘superwoman’ had supported Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) when he had no worldly resources; trusted and believed in him when most had denied him; encouraged and understood him when he took up the call with trembling steps; withstood persecution, insults, threats and torture and was a lifelong helpmate of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) till her last breath at the age of sixty-five.
Her remarkable and outstanding personality was manifested on the occasion when her husband was crowned with Nubuwwah (prophethood). Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) was in the solitude of the cave when he suddenly received the first revelation. He was taken aback and terrified. Why wouldn’t he be terrified? This was his first awe-inspiring encounter with revelation which had come from the Rabb of the Worlds through the greatest angel Jibreel (‘alaihis salaam).
This event was one of the greatest, not only in the life of Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), but in the history of mankind. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) stood up trembling, heading home to seek rest and solace in the tender care of none other than Sayyidah Khadeejah (radhiyallahu ‘anha). This great woman, the best friend that she was, calmly comforted Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) giving him the strength he needed.
She addressed him thus, “By Allah! Allah Ta‘ala will never disgrace you! Indeed you join and maintain family ties, you bear the burdens of others, you earn for those who cannot acquire a livelihood, you extend hospitality to your guests and you provide assistance when a calamity or disaster strikes.”
Sayyidah Khadeejah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) spared no effort in consoling Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) at this greatest moment, which is perhaps the greatest of her deeds. She then takes Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) to her cousin Waraqah bin Naufal, who consoles Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and affirms what Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) was already certain of…
A friend in need is a friend indeed!