Hadith Text & Reference

Narrated `Ali: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The best of the world's women is Mary (at her lifetime), and the best of the world's women is Khadija (at her lifetime)."

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 3815

Contextual Explanation

This noble hadith establishes the supreme status of two exemplary women: Maryam bint 'Imran (Mary, mother of Jesus) and Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The specification "at her lifetime" indicates temporal excellence - Maryam being the best woman of her era, and Khadija the best of hers.

Virtues of Maryam (AS)

Maryam represents the pinnacle of devotion, chastity, and submission to Allah. Her miraculous birth of Prophet 'Isa (Jesus) without father demonstrates Allah's absolute power. The Quran dedicates an entire chapter (Surah Maryam) honoring her, testifying to her elevated status among all creation.

Excellence of Khadija (RA)

Khadija al-Kubra was the first person to embrace Islam, offering unwavering support to the Prophet during the most challenging early years of revelation. She sacrificed her immense wealth for Islam's cause and provided emotional strength when the Prophet received his first revelations. Her loyalty earned her the glad tidings of a palace in Paradise.

Scholarly Insights

Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that this hadith doesn't contradict other narrations mentioning Fatima, 'Aisha, or Asiya as the best women, as these refer to different categories of excellence. Maryam excels in spiritual devotion while Khadija excels in worldly support of prophethood.

The repetition "best of the world's women" emphasizes that each was unparalleled in her respective era, with no woman surpassing them in comprehensive virtue during their lifetimes.

Contemporary Relevance

This teaching guides Muslims to honor righteous women and recognize diverse paths to excellence. Maryam exemplifies spiritual purity while Khadija represents supportive partnership - both models for Muslim women seeking nearness to Allah through different means according to their circumstances and capabilities.