The correct answer is Hazrat Khadija (R.A). Hazrat Khadija bint Khuwaylid (R.A) holds a unique and unparalleled position in the history of Islam as the first person—regardless of gender—to accept the message of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Her conversion was not... Read More
The correct answer is Hazrat Khadija (R.A). Hazrat Khadija bint Khuwaylid (R.A) holds a unique and unparalleled position in the history of Islam as the first person—regardless of gender—to accept the message of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Her conversion was not a public event or a political statement; rather, it was a profound act of faith that occurred in the private, intimate setting of her home immediately following the first revelation in the Cave of Hira. Her belief provided the foundational support that the Prophet (PBUH) needed during the most uncertain and overwhelming moments of his life.
Before the advent of Islam, Khadija (R.A) was already one of the most respected figures in Makkah. Born into a noble family of the Quraish, she was a highly successful businesswoman who managed vast trade caravans. In a society where women often faced significant social limitations, her intelligence, integrity, and financial independence earned her the title "Amirat-ul-Quraish" (Princess of the Quraish) and "At-Tahira" (The Pure One). It was her professional relationship with Muhammad (PBUH)—who managed her trade with such honesty that he was known as "Al-Amin"—that eventually led to their marriage.
The pivotal moment of her acceptance of Islam occurred in 610 CE. When Muhammad (PBUH) returned from Mount Noor, trembling and deeply shaken by the weight of the first Divine encounter with the Angel Jibril (Gabriel), it was Khadija (R.A) who comforted him. She did not meet his experience with skepticism or doubt. Instead, she uttered words that have become legendary in Islamic tradition, testifying to his character: "Allah will never disgrace you. You unite uterine relations, you bear the burden of the weak, you help the poor and the needy, you entertain the guests, and you endure hardships in the path of truthfulness." By immediately believing in his mission, she became the first "Mumin" (Believer), offering him the psychological sanctuary he required to begin the monumental task of spreading the message of Monotheism.
Hazrat Khadija’s (R.A) contribution to Islam extended far beyond her initial testimony. As the small community of Muslims grew, they faced intense persecution and a social boycott by the Quraish. For three years, the Muslims were confined to the valley of Shib-e-Abi Talib, facing starvation and extreme hardship. During this time, Khadija (R.A) used her immense wealth to sustain the community, providing food and resources to those in need. Her financial sacrifice was so total that by the end of her life, the once-wealthiest woman of Makkah had spent almost all her riches in the cause of Islam.
The Prophet (PBUH) often spoke of her with deep affection long after her passing, noting that she believed in him when people rejected him and supported him when he had no one else. Her death in 619 CE, shortly after the end of the boycott, was such a heavy blow to the Prophet (PBUH) that the year was named "Aam-ul-Huzn" (The Year of Sorrow).
Hazrat Khadija (R.A) remains a symbol of courage, wisdom, and unwavering devotion. She was not just the first woman to accept Islam; she was the "Mother of the Believers" whose legacy shaped the social and ethical framework of the early Muslim community. Her life serves as a testament to the vital role women played in the foundation and preservation of the Islamic faith.
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