"The Messenger of Allah married me when I was six, and consummated the marriage with me when I was nine."
Hadith Text & Context
"The Messenger of Allah married me when I was six, and consummated the marriage with me when I was nine." (Sunan an-Nasa'i 3379)
This narration from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) is recorded in Sunan an-Nasa'i's "The Book of Marriage" and establishes the historical facts of her marriage to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Historical & Cultural Context
In 7th century Arabia, such marriage practices were culturally normative and legally acceptable. The age of maturity was determined by physical development rather than chronological age.
Early marriages were common across civilizations until recent times, serving social stability, family alliances, and protection of lineage.
Legal Rulings (Ahkam)
Classical scholars derived from this hadith that marriage to prepubescent girls is permissible, though consummation awaits physical maturity.
The marriage contract (nikah) and consummation (dakhul) are distinct legal events separated by the wife's readiness.
Scholarly Perspectives
Imam Nawawi stated this hadith demonstrates the permissibility of a father marrying his young daughter to a suitable match.
Ibn Qudamah emphasized that consummation requires both physical capability and mutual consent when maturity is reached.
Wisdom & Benefits
Aisha's young age enabled her to learn and transmit vast Islamic knowledge, becoming one of Islam's greatest scholars.
This marriage strengthened community bonds and provided a living example of prophetic conduct in family matters.