Formative Training Under the Prophet

contracted when she was six, and she came to live in the Prophet’s household when she was nine. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 5188) Some people have tried to reinterpret the reports concerning Aisha’s age at marriage. Such reinterpretation, however, is not necessary. The issue depends largely on the perspective from which the event is viewed. Some see it only as a marriage. In its wider significance, however, it also gave Aisha the opportunity to develop under the Prophet’s direct guidance during her formative years. The outcome supports this understanding. Scholars generally acknowledge that both Ali and Aisha held a distinguished place among the Companions because of their exceptional insight and profound understanding of religion. Here is a more natural and polished version: There were two main ways of benefiting from the Prophet’s teachings. The first was to preserve his sayings and pass them on to others. Abu Hurayrah was especially distinguished in this field. The second was to listen carefully to the Prophet’s words, observe his actions closely, and draw broader principles and insights from them. This kind of learning required long and