Refuting Doubts About the Prophet (SAW) -Doubt # 2

Read Doubt #1: Refuting the Doubts of Prophet (SAW)

Doubt # 2: Why was Aisha (RA) so Young?

Firstly, it should be pointed out that this contention was never raised by any of the early critics of the Prophet (SAW), rather, it is an allegation that became notorious post enlightenment. Thus, had there been the smallest hint of impropriety, the early critics of the Prophet would have definitely raised this contention.

Secondly, not only was it customary in Arabia to get married at the age of puberty, but it was customary in the Christian western world as well. Here are some examples:

Imam al Shafi said, “during my stay in Yemen, I have come across girls who began menstruation at the age of nine.” (Siyar A lam Al Nubala)

Imam al Bayhaqi narrated that Imam al Shaffi said, “I have seen in the city of Sana’a a grandmother while she was twenty one. She menstruated at the age of nine and gave birth at the age of 10.” (Sunan Al Bayhaqi)

In Greek and Roman literature, many citations can be found of women getting married at puberty.

In our times, the state of Albama and New Hampshire allow a girl of age 13 and 14 to marry with guardian consent.

It is also important to note that at no point in time was any discontent showed from Aisha, but rather she loved the Prophet (SAW) dearly. This is manifested in the face that, with her sharp and intelligent mind, she went on to become one of the five top narrators of hadith from all of the companions. This alludes to greater wisdoms behind his marriage as well.

Lastly, it is important to note that just because we are unable to perceive and fathom maturity at such young ages (due to the times in which we live, where at 17, one is still considered a minor and unaccountable for one’s actions), it does not mean that it did not previously exist. Thus, it is clear that claims that such wives were too young are baseless, and it is rather just a case of difference of place and time.

Read Doubt # 3- Why was the Prophet of Mercy in so many wars