"I remember the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) covering me with his Rida' while I was watching the Ethiopians playing in the masjid, until I got bored. So you should understand the keenness of young girls to play."
The Book of the Prayer for the Two 'Eids - Sunan an-Nasa'i
A commentary on the hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i 1595, wherein 'Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrates her experience with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Context and Occasion
This narration occurred during the days of Eid in Medina. The Ethiopians were performing their traditional war dances and displays of martial skill with spears and shields in the courtyard of the Prophet's Mosque.
'Aisha, being young at the time, was watching this spectacle with great interest. The Prophet (ﷺ), demonstrating his gentle nature, stood by her side and covered her with his Rida' (upper garment) to allow her to watch comfortably.
Scholarly Commentary
The covering with the Rida' demonstrates the Prophet's protective care and consideration for 'Aisha's modesty while allowing her innocent enjoyment. Scholars note this shows the permissibility of recreational activities in the mosque that do not violate its sanctity.
The phrase "until I got bored" indicates the natural attention span of youth and the Prophet's patience in accommodating it. This incident establishes the principle that understanding human nature, especially of children, is essential in Islamic education.
Classical commentators emphasize that this hadith illustrates the balance between religious solemnity and legitimate human recreation, showing Islam's comprehensive understanding of human needs.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Permissibility of cultural displays and martial arts in mosque courtyards provided they maintain decorum.
Validation of youthful curiosity and the importance of accommodating natural developmental stages.
Demonstration of prophetic compassion and understanding in marital relationships and child-rearing.
Establishment of the principle that religious spaces can accommodate community celebrations and cultural expressions.