What was the title of Hazrat Ayesha (RA)?

The primary titles of Hazrat Ayesha (RA) are Siddiqa and Tahira.Hazrat Ayesha (RA), the daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and the beloved wife of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), is one of the most influential figures in Islamic history. Her life was defined by intelligence, deep knowledge of jurisprudence, and an unwavering commitment to the truth. Because of her unique character and the divine revelations associated with her life, she was bestowed with titles that reflected her status in the eyes of God and the Muslim community.

The Meaning of "Siddiqa" (The Truthful)

The title Siddiqa is the feminine form of "Siddiq," which means "The Truthful" or "The one who testifies to the truth." This title is deeply linked to her lineage, as her father, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), was given the title "As-Siddiq" by the Prophet (SAW) for his immediate and unconditional belief in the Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj).

Hazrat Ayesha (RA) earned this title not just by inheritance but through her own character. She was known for her absolute honesty in narrating the sayings (Hadith) of the Prophet (SAW). Scholars of Islam have noted that her memory was so precise and her integrity so high that she became a primary source of guidance for the companions after the Prophet’s passing. In historical texts, she is often referred to as Ayesha as-Siddiqa to distinguish her elevated rank.

The Title "Tahira" (The Pure)

The title Tahira, meaning "The Pure," holds a very specific and profound historical significance. This title is directly connected to the "Incident of Ifk" (the Slander). During the early years in Medina, certain hypocrites attempted to tarnish her reputation with false accusations. This event was a period of great trial for the Prophet’s household.

The resolution to this trial came directly from the heavens. Allah revealed several verses in Surah An-Nur (The Light), specifically declaring her innocence and purity. These Quranic verses served as a permanent testimony to her character. Because Allah Himself attested to her purity, she has been remembered throughout history as "Tahira." This designation is shared by other noble women in Islam, such as Hazrat Khadija (RA) and Hazrat Fatima (RA), but for Hazrat Ayesha, it represents a divine vindication that is preserved in the Quran forever.

Other Honorable Designations

Beyond these, she was also known by the affectionate name Humaira, a title the Prophet (SAW) used for her, which refers to her fair complexion. Of course, her most common collective title is Umm-ul-Mu'minin (Mother of the Believers), a title shared by all the wives of the Prophet (SAW) as per the Quranic injunction.