'Ā'isha, mother of the faithful: The prototype of Muslim women Ulama

Abstract

Having a unique intelligence and assertiveness, 'Ā'isha has been regarded Islam's ideal woman scholar. She was not only as one of the earliest reporters of the authentic sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, but also a great source for conveying his private family life. The article seeks to show that 'Ā'isha's life in the 7th century Arabia is especially remarkable when examined through the lenses of contemporary times. Her main characteristic was her critical, ever-inquisitive, and curious mind. Through the questions she was able to ask, 'Ā'isha became a bridge between the time of the Prophet and the contemporary Muslim life. The important role she played in the scholarly efforts of Muslim men and women in learning and teaching knowledge needs to be examined and properly emphasized. Her sound scholarship in Islamic disciplines include but was not necessarily be limited to hadith, tafsīr, fiqh, literature, and poetry. Today Muslim women may take 'Ā'isha not only as a pious example, but follow her intelligence, curiosity, and reasoning.