An Example of Noble Character

Prophet’s death and lived for another fifty years. Many people acquired knowledge from her, and a large portion of Islamic teachings and etiquettes were transmitted through her. It is even said that about one-fourth of Islamic jurisprudence was narrated by her. She passed away in 58 AH, during the rule of Amir Muawiya. (Fath al-Bari, Vol. 7, p. 134) Aisha is known not only for narrating a significant number of prophetic sayings, but also for the remarkable attentiveness with which she observed and reflected on the Prophet’s words and actions. She listened with great care, observed with full focus, and used her God-given intellect to reflect on their deeper meanings. Her statements are rich in insight and wisdom. For example, she once said: “Whenever the Prophet had to choose between two options, he always chose the easier one.” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 24549) This brief observation carries profound meaning. Aisha used her intelligence to connect human beings with their Creator. She lived a life that could truly be described as one of simple living and high thinking. In later years, large sums of wealth would sometimes reach her, yet she would give it all away in charity and continue to live simply. Once, Abdullah ibn Zubayr—Aisha’s nephew and the son of her sister Asma—sent her 180,000 dirhams. By evening, she had given all of it away in charity. That day, she was fasting, and there was nothing in the house except bread and olive oil. Her maid remarked, “It would have been better if you had saved a few dirhams to buy something for the iftar meal.”