The Best Women

What makes a good wife, an excellent companion and a true soul mate? I wonder who contemplates these matters more, men or women?
One thing for sure is that the mother of the believers and the wife of the Prophet Mohammed peace be upon him, Khadija the daughter of Khuwailid was the best of women and an exemplary wife.

Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “The best women of mankind are four: Mariam daughter of `Imraan, Assiya the wife of Pharaoh, Khadija daughter of Khuwailid, and Fatima the daughter of the Messenger of Allaah” [Bukhari & Muslim]

Khadija, of an honourable linage, was a wealthy and respected businesswoman. She bore all of the Prophet’s children except for one. After Allah the Exalted Khadija was the Prophet’s aid and support during and before he was sent with the message of Islam. The Prophet (pbuh) said of her: "She believed in me when no one else did; she accepted Islam when people rejected me; and she helped and comforted me when there was no one else to lend me a helping hand."

Such a loving relationship was built on compassion and understanding. When the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) was frightened and shaken from his encounter with Angel Jibril in Hira, Khadija’s response was based on her knowledge of her husband, his character and belief that such a man would never be wronged by his creator: "Be steadfast and have good news. By the one who has Khadija's soul in His hand, I wish you become the Prophet of this nation. By God, God will never let you down. You are kind to the kin, you are truthful in your word, you carry the weak, you host your guest, and you support the afflicted."

She was there for the Prophet (pbuh) until the last moment of her life. Khadija could have chosen not to be included in the sanctions imposed by Quraish on the Muslims. Her tribe would have defended her and her business could have sustained her. After all, she has always lived a comfortable life. However, she chose to be beside her husband and the messenger of Allah; to support a great cause and be with her fellow brothers and sisters.
May Allah be pleased with and have mercy on the Mother of the believers, Khadija the daughter of Khuwailid.

Action points
-List the roles you have in your life: daughter, mother, wife, neighbour, sister, friend, work colleague, .... , .... , ... etc
-How can you be the best YOU can be in each of these roles?
-Start making those changes today beginning with asking Allah for strength and guidance
-Remember Allah will ask us about how we treated others and not how they treated us.