Aisha Siddiqah: A Woman of Great Learning

LESSONS FROM CHAPTER 24, AL-NUR I n 6 AH, the Prophet set out on a journey with his Companions. His wife, Aisha al-Siddiqah, accompanied him, riding on a separate camel. On the return journey, the caravan stopped at one place. Before it resumed its journey, Aisha went some distance from the camp at night to relieve herself. On her way back, she discovered that her necklace was missing, so she returned to look for it. The search delayed her. Meanwhile, the caravan prepared to leave. Those responsible for lifting her howdah (a covered camel-borne carriage) assumed that she was inside and placed it on the camel. The caravan then departed, unaware that she had been left behind. When Aisha returned, she found the campsite deserted. She decided to remain there, thinking that once the caravan discovered her absence, someone would return to look for her. After some time, she fell asleep. Safwan ibn al-Muattal usually travelled behind the