Ruqayyah bint Muhammad: The Devoted Daughter of the Prophet

Ruqayyah bint Muhammad (RA) was one of the beloved daughters of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his first wife, Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA). Born into a noble and respected family in Makkah, Ruqayyah’s life was marked by deep faith, patience, and sacrifice during a critical time in the early history of Islam. Her story, though often overshadowed by more prominent historical figures, provides a profound insight into the trials faced by the family of the Prophet ﷺ and the steadfastness of Muslim women during Islam’s formative years.

⸻

Early Life in Makkah

Ruqayyah was born approximately ten years before the start of the Prophethood, in a society dominated by tribal norms and idol worship. She grew up in a household characterized by love, compassion, and righteousness. Her mother, Khadijah (RA), was a noblewoman known for her intelligence and generosity, and her father, Muhammad ﷺ, was widely regarded as Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy).

As a child, Ruqayyah received the best moral and spiritual upbringing from her parents. She was gentle, intelligent, and known for her beauty and graceful manners. Along with her sisters—Zainab, Umm Kulthum, and Fatimah—Ruqayyah formed a strong bond with her family and was greatly loved by both her parents.

⸻

First Marriage and Separation

Before the advent of Islam, Ruqayyah was married to Utbah ibn Abu Lahab, the son of Abu Lahab, one of the Prophet’s uncles. However, when the Prophet ﷺ began preaching the message of Islam, Abu Lahab and his wife, Umm Jamil, became some of his fiercest enemies. Out of hatred for the Prophet ﷺ and to humiliate him, Abu Lahab forced his son Utbah to divorce Ruqayyah.

This divorce was deeply painful for her, but it also marked a turning point in her life. It was a trial that tested her patience and strengthened her character. Ruqayyah bore the humiliation with dignity and returned to her father’s house, finding solace in her faith and family.

⸻

Marriage to Uthman ibn Affan (RA)

After her divorce, Ruqayyah was married to one of the noblest and most beloved companions of the Prophet ﷺ—Uthman ibn Affan (RA). Uthman was a wealthy, kind, and devout Muslim who was among the earliest converts to Islam. The marriage between Ruqayyah and Uthman was a source of great joy for the Prophet ﷺ, who often described them as the most beautiful couple of their time.

The love between Ruqayyah and Uthman was deep and sincere. Their life together was one of harmony and shared faith. Uthman (RA) loved and respected Ruqayyah deeply, and she, in turn, supported him with unwavering devotion in his journey as a Muslim and companion of the Prophet ﷺ.

⸻

Migration to Abyssinia

As the persecution of Muslims in Makkah intensified, Ruqayyah and Uthman became part of the first group of Muslims who migrated to Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia) seeking refuge under the just Christian king, Negus (al-Najashi). The migration to Abyssinia was a bold step, and it highlighted Ruqayyah’s commitment to her faith.

In Abyssinia, Ruqayyah experienced both peace and hardship. She gave birth to a son named Abdullah, who brought joy to the family. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when the child died at the age of six after being pecked in the eye by a rooster, leading to infection and his death. This loss was heartbreaking for Ruqayyah and Uthman, but their faith remained unshaken.

⸻

Return to Makkah and Migration to Madinah

After spending some years in Abyssinia, Ruqayyah and Uthman returned to Makkah and then migrated to Madinah with the Prophet ﷺ and other companions. The Hijrah (migration) to Madinah marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Muslim community. However, for Ruqayyah, it was also the beginning of her final days.

Shortly after arriving in Madinah, Ruqayyah fell seriously ill. Despite receiving care and support from her husband and family, her health continued to deteriorate. During the time of the Battle of Badr—the first major battle between the Muslims and Quraysh—Uthman was instructed by the Prophet ﷺ to stay behind and tend to his ailing wife.

⸻

Her Death and Legacy

Ruqayyah bint Muhammad (RA) passed away in Madinah in the second year after the Hijrah, around the time the Muslim army was achieving victory at the Battle of Badr. Her death was a moment of sorrow for the Prophet ﷺ and her husband, Uthman (RA), who was deeply grieved. The Prophet ﷺ himself led her funeral prayer and wept over her grave.

Ruqayyah’s death was not only a personal loss for the Prophet ﷺ, but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by the early Muslims. Despite the challenges, her faith never wavered. She endured divorce, migration, exile, and the loss of her child—all with patience and dignity.

Uthman ibn Affan (RA) was later married to her sister Umm Kulthum (RA), earning him the unique honor of being known as Dhul-Nurayn (the Possessor of Two Lights) for having married two daughters of the Prophet ﷺ, one after the other.

⸻

Conclusion

Ruqayyah bint Muhammad (RA) was a woman of strength, faith, and sacrifice. Though her life was short, it was filled with trials that revealed her noble character and unwavering belief in the message of Islam. She was a pillar of support for her husband and a devoted daughter to the Prophet ﷺ.

Her story is a reflection of the silent strength carried by women in the early days of Islam—those who bore the weight of migration, loss, and societal challenges with resilience and dignity. Ruqayyah’s life continues to inspire Muslim women around the world to uphold their faith with patience and perseverance, no matter the trials they face.

May Allah be pleased with her and grant her the highest place in Paradise. Ameen.