Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Many amongst men reached (the level of) perfection but none amongst the women reached this level except Asia, Pharaoh's wife, and Mary, the daughter of `Imran. And no doubt, the superiority of `Aisha to other women is like the superiority of Tharid (i.e. a meat and bread dish) to other meals."
Hadith Text and Context
Narrated Abu Musa: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Many amongst men reached (the level of) perfection but none amongst the women reached this level except Asia, Pharaoh's wife, and Mary, the daughter of `Imran. And no doubt, the superiority of `Aisha to other women is like the superiority of Tharid (i.e. a meat and bread dish) to other meals." (Sahih al-Bukhari 3411)
Commentary on Perfection in Men and Women
The Prophet (ﷺ) indicates that while numerous men have attained spiritual perfection (kamal), only two women from previous nations achieved this exalted station: Asia, the wife of Pharaoh, and Maryam, daughter of Imran.
Asia demonstrated perfection through her unwavering faith despite being married to the greatest tyrant of her time, while Maryam attained perfection through her exceptional worship, chastity, and being chosen to bear Prophet Isa (Jesus) without father.
The Excellence of Aisha Among Women
The comparison of Aisha to tharid (the most favored dish of the Prophet) signifies her preeminence over all other women in comprehensive excellence.
Scholars explain this includes her profound knowledge of Islamic sciences, her role in transmitting numerous hadith, her sharp intellect, and her special status as the Prophet's most beloved wife and the only virgin he married.
Hierarchy of Female Excellence
The scholars of tafsir establish that Khadija, Fatima, and Aisha are the best women of this ummah, with Maryam and Asia being the best of previous nations.
This hadith establishes Aisha's particular distinction while affirming the superior status of Maryam and Asia in spiritual perfection among all women of creation.