I said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! Shouldn't we participate in Holy battles and Jihad along with you?" He replied, "The best and the most superior Jihad (for women) is Hajj which is accepted by Allah." `Aisha added: Ever since I heard that from Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) I have determined not to miss Hajj.
Penalty of Hunting while on Pilgrimage
Sahih al-Bukhari 1861
Exposition of the Hadith
This noble tradition from the Mother of the Believers, 'Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), contains profound wisdom regarding the spiritual stations of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) illuminated the hierarchy of virtuous deeds when he declared Hajj as the best jihad for women.
The term "jihad" here encompasses the broader meaning of striving in Allah's path, not merely restricted to armed combat. For women, whose primary responsibilities often lie within the domestic sphere, the comprehensive spiritual struggle of Hajj - with its physical hardships, financial sacrifice, and complete devotion - represents the pinnacle of their worship.
The condition "which is accepted by Allah" indicates that mere performance of the rituals is insufficient; the Hajj must be performed with sincerity (ikhlas), following the Prophetic example, and with lawful provisions. This qualification reminds us that the value of deeds lies in their acceptance by the Almighty.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes the obligatory nature of Hajj for women who meet the conditions, demonstrating its equivalence in spiritual reward to jihad for men in certain circumstances. The response also subtly indicates that women are not obligated to participate in military jihad, as their superior spiritual struggle lies elsewhere.
'Aisha's subsequent determination never to miss Hajj exemplifies how the Companions immediately acted upon Prophetic guidance. This teaches us the importance of translating knowledge into consistent practice and maintaining the performance of superior acts of worship throughout one's life.