that the Prophet (ﷺ) married her when she was six years old and he consummated his marriage when she was nine years old. Hisham said: I have been informed that `Aisha remained with the Prophet (ﷺ) for nine years (i.e. till his death).
Context and Significance
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 5134 describes the marriage of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to Aisha (ra), establishing the Islamic legal precedent for marriageable age being determined by physical maturity and capability, not merely chronological age.
Scholarly Commentary on the Marriage Age
Classical scholars emphasize that the marriage was contracted during childhood but consummated only after Aisha reached physical maturity, as evidenced by her reaching nine years of age.
Islamic jurisprudence judges marriage eligibility by bulugh (puberty) and rushd (mental maturity), not arbitrary age numbers. The variation in maturity ages across climates and eras is acknowledged in classical texts.
Historical and Cultural Context
This marriage occurred in 7th century Arabia where such age differences were customary and culturally acceptable. Historical records indicate similar practices in contemporary civilizations.
The nine-year companionship mentioned demonstrates the longevity and blessed nature of this marriage, during which Aisha became a foremost scholar and transmitter of Islamic knowledge.
Legal and Ethical Dimensions
Scholars note that Islamic law provides flexibility to accommodate different cultural norms while maintaining core ethical principles. The Prophet's marriage serves as a legal proof but doesn't mandate identical practices in all times and places.
Modern Islamic scholarship emphasizes that contemporary Muslim communities should follow both Islamic principles and comply with local laws regarding marriage age, demonstrating the adaptability of Shariah to time and place.