Because of Women
Jummah Mubarak, sis! It is through the strength, courage, and faith of women that so many legacies have been carried throughout history. Women have been the heart of faith, the backbone of families, and the unseen pillars upholding nations and generations.
Think of our beloved Sayyidah Khadijah (RA) — a noble woman of immense wisdom, faith, and generosity. She was the first to believe in the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), the first to support his mission, and the first to comfort him when revelation descended. She used her wealth to spread the message of Islam, feeding the poor and supporting the oppressed. Even during the harsh boycott, she stood firm, unwavering in her faith and loyalty. Her strength wasn’t loud — it was steadfast. Her love wasn’t fleeting — it was eternal. Through her, we learn that a woman’s belief, when anchored in sincerity, can move mountains and nurture movements.
And then, there is Hajar (AS) — a woman of unmatched patience, faith, and resilience. Left alone in the desert with her infant son, she placed her complete trust in Allah. Her desperate search for water between Safa and Marwah became a timeless act of devotion that millions now reenact during Umrah and Hajj. From her perseverance, Allah brought forth the blessed Zamzam well, a miracle that continues to sustain life centuries later. Hajar (AS), a Black woman, a mother, and a symbol of divine strength, showed us that faith can transform isolation into legacy and struggle into eternal reward.
These noble women — Khadijah (RA) and Hajar (AS) — are shining examples of what it means to be faithful, courageous, and steadfast. They remind us that success in this world and the next does not come from ease, but from faith, resilience, and trust in Allah.
So, dear sister, stand tall in your purpose. Be firm in your faith, confident in your identity, and gentle in your nature. Move through life with grace, knowing that your femininity is not weakness — it is divine strength. Be nurturing, yet bold. Be kind, yet courageous.
For it is through women that life begins, and through women that it is sustained. We are the mothers of nations, the nurturers of faith, the educators of generations, and the carriers of mercy. Truly, we are the pearls of this world — precious, radiant, and rare — created by Allah with purpose and beauty beyond measure.
Surah An-Nahl (16:97)
"Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while they are a believer — We will surely cause them to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do."
This ayah is a timeless reminder that Allah’s mercy, reward, and recognition transcend gender, status, or circumstance. What matters to Him is sincerity of faith (iman) and righteousness of action (‘amal salih).
In these few words, Allah equalizes humanity — both men and women stand before Him with the same spiritual potential and are judged by the purity of their deeds. It is not worldly position, wealth, or power that earns divine favor, but faith paired with good action.
The phrase “We will surely cause them to live a good life” (ḥayatan ṭayyibah) is profound. Scholars explain it as a life filled with contentment, peace, and barakah — not necessarily material luxury, but the serenity that comes from being close to Allah, knowing your purpose, and living in alignment with it. It is the quiet joy of a heart that trusts in divine wisdom even in hardship.
This verse beautifully mirrors the lives of Khadijah (RA) and Hajar (AS).
Khadijah (RA) lived a life of sacrifice and devotion. She gave her wealth, comfort, and status for the sake of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ. Despite facing trials — social isolation, financial hardship, and even hunger during the boycott — she lived a “good life” because her heart was filled with faith and love for Allah and His Prophet. Her reward, both in this world and the next, is immeasurable.
Hajar (AS), in the desolate desert with her infant, trusted completely in Allah’s promise. Her obedience and perseverance turned a barren valley into a place of life and worship. Her “good life” was not defined by luxury, but by taqwa (God-consciousness) and certainty in Allah’s care — and her legacy now lives eternally in the rites of Hajj.
This ayah reminds every believer — especially women — that their efforts never go unseen. Whether you are nurturing a family, striving in your work, serving your community, or enduring silent struggles with patience, Allah sees it all. Every moment of sincerity is written, every sacrifice is counted, and every hardship is transformed into reward.
Allah promises two rewards in this verse:
A good life in this world — a heart filled with peace, resilience, and divine contentment.
An even greater reward in the Hereafter — beyond imagination, “according to the best of what they used to do.”
That means Allah, in His mercy, does not judge us by our flaws, but by our best efforts. Even a small deed, done with love and sincerity, is magnified in His sight.
So, dear sister, remember this: your worth in Allah’s eyes is not diminished by the world’s perception. What defines you is your faith, your patience, and your righteous actions. Every act of kindness, every tear of prayer, and every moment of steadfastness builds your eternal home.
Live with faith, act with sincerity, and trust that Allah will never let your goodness go unrewarded — in this world and in the next.
