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Today, we speak about a woman of firsts - so pivotal to our Islamic history that we could have started this series with her. So today, we honor Khadijah (ra) - the first to the party, the first in faith, and indeed the first in a long list of firsts.

Khadijah (ra) was the first one to believe in the message of Islam, to give our beloved Prophet ﷺ the comfort and support he desperately needed in those early days. Her influence marked a turning point in the life of the Prophet ﷺ.

Khadijah did not just occupy the first spot, she held the first nine spots! An extraordinary woman indeed! She was a woman of faith and character: perceptive, immune to the societal expectations of her time, boldly choosing her own unique path. The Prophet ﷺ declared her as one of those who perfected their faith.

Born to a lineage similar to the Prophet ﷺ, she held her own in a male-dominated society. The youngest of her family, she rose to become not just the richest woman in Quraish, but a very influential figure as well. Her generosity and kindness knew no bounds. She was known to freely give to the orphans, the poor, and the needy, ensuring they had means to get married.

Her life before Islam mirrors her remarkable personality. Though twice widowed with children from previous marriages, she did not just own her reality but surpassed it. She was successful in business, but never compromised her values, always seeking honesty and integrity above all else. This search led her to trust in the Prophet ﷺ, not just with her caravans, but ultimately her heart.

Khadijah was hesitant about considering marriage again, unsure of finding someone worthy of her trust. But the integrity of the Prophet ﷺ won her over and they were married, marking the union of two pure souls.

Her decision to marry him was monumental. It not only provided the Prophet ﷺ with personal happiness and a stable family life, but also elevated his position in society. Unburdened of financial constraints, he was free to play a more active role in societal affairs, giving him access to the upper echelons of society. This undoubtedly would have helped him greatly when he began preaching the message of Islam.

Khadijah’s marriage to the Prophet ﷺ marked a significant change in their lives – socially, economically, and spiritually. Their home was bustling with life: they had six children together and also provided a home for Khadijah’s previous children and other wards.

They experienced an enviable level of peace and happiness, both in their familial and social lives. They respected each other, they loved each other, and they helped each other. But as the winds of change started to blow, there was something else on the horizon.

Towards the end of this blissful phase, the Prophet ﷺ started experiencing vivid dreams that came true. It led him to seek solitude, to ponder and understand these visions. It was a time of transformation as he transitioned from being a sincere shepherd to assuming the heavy mantle of Prophethood. And through it all, Khadijah was there, his rock and supporter.

And so, as we reflect on the life of Khadijah (ra), let us learn from her example.

From her resilience, her faith, her generosity, and her unwavering love and loyalty.

As she was the Prophet ﷺ’s first love, let her be our first symbol of strength, determination and faith.

It was through her that we learned that faith, courage, and determination could bring about lasting change and leave a legacy for the ages to cherish.