When the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was commanded to give option to his wives, he started it from me saying: I am going to mention to you a matter which you should not (decide) in haste until you have consulted your parents. She said that he already knew that my parents would never allow me to seek separation from him She said: Then he said: Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, said: Prophet, say to thy wives: If you desire this world's life and its adornment, then come, I will give you a provision and allow you to depart a goodly departing; and if you desire Allah and His Messenger and the abode of the Hereafter, then Allah has prepared for the doers of good among you a great reward She is reported to have said: About what should I consult my parents, for I desire Allah and His Messenger and the abode of the Hereafter? She ('A'isha) said: Then all the wives of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did as I had done.
The Book of Divorce - Sahih Muslim 1475
This narration from 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her) describes the profound moment when the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) offered his wives the choice between remaining in marriage with him or seeking worldly provisions and departure. The context reveals the Prophet's impeccable character and the wisdom in his approach to this delicate matter.
Scholarly Commentary on the Hadith
The Prophet's instruction to consult parents demonstrates the Islamic emphasis on family counsel in important decisions, particularly for women. His knowledge that 'A'isha's parents would never advise separation shows his deep understanding of human nature and family dynamics.
The Quranic verse presented (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:28-29) establishes two clear paths: worldly comforts or spiritual commitment to Allah and His Messenger. This choice reflects the fundamental Islamic principle that believers must prioritize eternal rewards over temporary worldly pleasures.
'A'isha's immediate response, rejecting the need for consultation since her choice was already clear, exemplifies the highest level of faith and commitment to the Prophet and Islamic principles. Her declaration became the standard for all the Mothers of the Believers.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This incident establishes the permissibility of offering wives a choice in marriage continuation when circumstances change. The "goodly departing" mentioned ensures women's rights are protected even in separation.
The collective response of all the Prophet's wives underscores the importance of sisterhood in faith and the power of positive example in religious communities. Their unified choice for Allah and His Messenger serves as an eternal lesson in prioritizing spiritual commitments over material comforts.