Hazrat Sauda (RA): The Honored Mother of Believers
Hazrat Saudah (RA) holds the esteemed title of Ummahaat-ul-Momineen or Mother of the Believers. She was the daughter of Zam’aa bin Qais of Makkah and Shamoos bint Qais from Medina, both of whom belonged to the distinguished Quraishi tribe of Banu. Before her marriage to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), she was married to her cousin Sukran bin Amr (RA), and together, they had a son named Abdur Rahman, who was later martyred in the Battle of Jalula in 637 CE.
Saudah Bint-e-Zam’ah Embracing Islam
Hazrat Sauda (RA) and her husband Sukran (RA) embraced Islam in the early days of the Prophet’s mission. Her husband’s brothers—Sahel, Hatib, Sohail, and Saleet—were also blessed to be among the early companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Demonstrating immense faith, Sauda (RA) and Sukran (RA) migrated to Abyssinia, seeking refuge to freely practice their faith and to avoid persecution in Makkah.
Hazrat Saudah (RA)’s Dreams
One night, Hazrat Sauda (RA) dreamt that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) entered her home and held her by the back of her neck. When she shared this dream with her husband, he interpreted it as a sign that she would marry the Prophet after his passing. Sometime later, she had another dream in which she saw the moon descending into her lap. Sukran (RA) interpreted this as an indication that he would soon pass away and that she would indeed marry the Prophet. Shortly afterward, Sukran fell ill and passed away.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) Marriage Proposal
After the passing of Hazrat Khadija (RA), the Prophet (peace be upon him) was deeply saddened, grieving the loss of his beloved wife. Recognizing his sorrow and the responsibilities he bore in raising his four daughters, Hazrat Khaula bint Hakeem (RA) suggested that he consider marriage once again. Hazrat Khaula (RA) approached Hazrat Sauda (RA)’s father on the Prophet’s behalf to propose marriage. Both her father and Hazrat Sauda (RA) accepted the proposal wholeheartedly.
Fulfilling Her Dream
In the 10th year of Prophethood, Hazrat Saudah (RA) married the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in her father’s home. The Prophet gave a mahr (dowry) of 400 dirhams as part of the marriage contract. Three years later, when the Prophet migrated to Medina, he sent Hazrat Zayd bin Harith (RA) to escort Hazrat Sauda (RA) and others from Makkah. Alongside Hazrat Fatima (RA), she migrated to Medina under Hazrat Zayd’s (RA) protection, embracing the journey for the sake of Allah.
Physical Appearance and Distinction
Hazrat Sauda (RA) was known to be the tallest among the Prophet’s wives. Hazrat Aisha (RA) would fondly mention that those who had seen Hazrat Sauda before the command of hijab could recognize her. The wives of the Prophet once asked him, “Who among us will be the first to follow you?” He replied, “Whoever has the longest hand.” They took this literally, comparing their hand lengths, and Hazrat Sauda’s was the longest. However, they later understood that the “longest hand” symbolized charity, as Hazrat Zainab bint Jahsh (RA) passed away first and was known for her charity.
Hazrat Saudah (RA) was a woman of simplicity, warmth, and integrity. She had profound obedience to the Prophet and was always willing to sacrifice for his pleasure. Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated that whenever the Prophet prepared for a journey, he would cast lots to determine which wife would accompany him. Hazrat Sauda, however, gifted her day and night to Hazrat Aisha to seek the Prophet’s pleasure.
Sense of Humor and Kindness
Hazrat Saudah (RA) also had a light-hearted nature and a sense of humour. Ibn Saad narrates that one night while praying behind the Prophet (PBUH), she struggled to keep up with his long prayer. The next morning, she humorously told the Prophet (PBUH) that his lengthy prayer made her worry her nasal vein would burst, so she held her nose while bowing! This brought a smile to the Prophet’s face, showcasing her gentle humour and the warmth of her character.
A Woman of Generosity
Hazrat Saudah (RA) was renowned for her generosity. During the caliphate of Umar bin Khattab (RA), he once sent her a bag of dirhams. In a remarkable act of selflessness, she immediately distributed the money among the poor and needy, reflecting her deep empathy and charitable spirit.
Passing and Legacy
Hazrat Saudah (RA) lived to an old age and passed away at around 80 years old, during the caliphate of Umar bin Khattab (RA). She was laid to rest in the revered cemetery of Jannat-ul-Baqi. Hazrat Sauda (RA) left behind a legacy of unwavering faith, charity, and compassion. As one of the Prophet’s wives, she holds a cherished place in Islamic history, remembered for her kindness, her humour, and her generous heart.
In reflecting on the life of Hazrat Saudah (RA), we find a profound narrative of faith and compassion that resonates even today. Living to the remarkable age of 80, her journey concluded during the caliphate of Umar bin Khattab (RA), but her legacy continues to inspire. Laid to rest in the sacred grounds of Jannat-ul-Baqi, her story serves as a beacon for parents striving to instill values of kindness and charity in their children.
Hazrat Saudah (RA) exemplified unwavering faith, leaving behind an enduring testament to the impact of love and generosity. As we share her legacy, let us encourage our families to embody these principles, ensuring that the spirit of Hazrat Saudah (RA) lives on through our actions and teachings.
