That the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Many a man achieved perfection, but no woman achieved perfection except for Mariam the daughter of 'Imran, and Asiyah the wife of Fir'awn. And the superiority of 'Aishah over other women is like the superiority of Tharid over other foods."
He said: There is something on this topic from 'Aishah and Anas.
[Abu 'Eisa said:] This Hadith is Hasan Sahih.
Hadith Text & Authentication
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Many a man achieved perfection, but no woman achieved perfection except for Mariam the daughter of 'Imran, and Asiyah the wife of Fir'awn. And the superiority of 'Aishah over other women is like the superiority of Tharid over other foods."
He said: There is something on this topic from 'Aishah and Anas.
[Abu 'Eisa said:] This Hadith is Hasan Sahih.
Commentary on Perfection
The term "perfection" (kamal) here refers to spiritual and moral perfection attained through complete devotion to Allah. The hadith indicates that while many men reached this high station, only two women from previous nations achieved it: Maryam bint 'Imran (Mother of Jesus) and Asiyah bint Muzahim (wife of Pharaoh).
Maryam's perfection is demonstrated in the Quran where she is described as chosen, purified, and preferred above the women of the worlds (Quran 3:42). Asiyah's perfection manifested in her unwavering faith despite being married to the greatest tyrant of her time, ultimately attaining martyrdom.
Excellence of 'Aishah
The comparison of 'Aishah to tharid (a delicious dish of bread soaked in meat broth) signifies her preeminence among all women of this ummah. Just as tharid was the most favored food of the Prophet (ﷺ), 'Aishah possessed superior qualities in knowledge, understanding of religion, and closeness to the Messenger of Allah.
Scholars explain that 'Aishah's superiority over other women of this nation is like the superiority of tharid over other foods - indicating both preference and excellence in religious understanding, as she became one of the primary sources of Islamic knowledge after the Prophet's death.
Scholarly Observations
Imam at-Tirmidhi's authentication as "Hasan Sahih" indicates the hadith's reliability through multiple chains of transmission. The mention of supporting narrations from 'Aishah and Anas reinforces its authenticity.
This hadith does not diminish the status of other righteous women but highlights specific individuals who reached extraordinary spiritual heights. Fatimah, Khadijah, and other female companions also hold esteemed positions in Islam, each with their unique virtues and contributions.