In celebration of Ramadan and International Women’s Month, we are sharing stories of Super Muslimahs that inspired multi-generation of Muslim women.
Ruqayyah bint Muhammad, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad and Khadijah, was born in Mecca and was among the Prophet’s children who played significant roles in the early days of Islam. Her story is one of love, resilience, and sacrifice.
Ruqayyah was born into a household known for its piety and devotion to Islam. She grew up witnessing her father’s unwavering commitment to spreading the message of monotheism and justice. Like her siblings, Ruqayyah was raised with strong moral values and a deep sense of compassion for others.
Ruqayyah married Utbah ibn Abu Lahab, a prominent member of the Quraysh tribe in Mecca. However, their marriage was short-lived, as Utbah vehemently opposed Islam and was among its fiercest adversaries. Despite the challenges posed by her husband’s hostility towards Islam, Ruqayyah remained steadfast in her faith.
During the early years of Islam, the Muslim community faced severe persecution at the hands of the Quraysh. Ruqayyah and her family endured immense hardship, including social ostracism, economic boycotts, and physical violence. Despite these tribulations, Ruqayyah remained resolute in her belief in the message brought by her father.
Ruqayyah’s commitment to Islam was further tested when her father, Prophet Muhammad, received the command to migrate to Medina to escape persecution in Mecca. Along with her husband, Utbah, Ruqayyah made the difficult journey to Medina, leaving behind their home and belongings in Mecca.
Tragically, Ruqayyah’s marriage to Utbah ended in divorce during their time in Medina. Despite the pain of separation, Ruqayyah remained steadfast in her faith and found solace in the support of her family and the Muslim community in Medina.
Ruqayyah’s resilience and devotion to Islam earned her a place of honor among the early Muslims. She was known for her kindness, compassion, and generosity towards others, embodying the values of Islam in her everyday life.
Ruqayyah’s story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the early Muslims in their struggle for religious freedom and justice. Her steadfastness in the face of adversity inspires Muslims around the world to remain steadfast in their faith and uphold the values of compassion, resilience, and devotion to God. Though her life was brief and marked by hardship, Ruqayyah’s legacy lives on as a testament to the enduring strength of faith and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
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