UAE Friday sermon: the lessons to be learnt from the Prophet's companions

Worshippers told of qualities held by Asmaa bint Abu Bakr

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A few days into the new Islamic year, the sermon will tell worshippers about the strength and importance of women in society, taking Asmaa bint Abu Bakr as an example of such strength.

Asmaa was one of Prophet Mohammed’s companions; she was among the first women to accept Islam, was the half-sister of the Prophet’s wife, Aisha, and the daughter of Abu Bakr Al Siddiq – one of the Prophet’s closest companions.

When the Prophet and Abu Bakr sought shelter in the cave of Mount Thor during their journey from Makkah to Madinah, Asmaa was pregnant. But she would still scale the mountain to provide them with what supplies they needed.

Her dedication is an example of limitless giving, sacrifice and patience, the sermon will say.

Asmaa migrated with the Prophet and her father to Madinah, not letting the pregnancy and arduous journey deter her. As soon as they reached the outskirts of Madinah, she gave birth to a son, Abdullah ibn Al Zubair. He was the first child to be born after Islam.

She was a pious woman who possessed vast knowledge on Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). Asmaa also performed Hajj with the Prophet. She has narrated many Ahadith [sayings of Prophet Mohammed].

There is a lesson to be drawn from each period of Asmaa’s life, the sermon will say.

She was dutiful to her parents, and maintained a good relationship with her mother who was a pagan.

She was also a righteous wife, who supported her husband and family during hard times when they were poor. She was also a good mentor to her children and was known for being kind and generous. “I have never seen women more generous than Aisha or Asmaa,” her son once said.

Muslims are therefore urged to see Asmaa as an example and to ponder the Prophet’s migration that brought her acts, and the good deeds of other companions, to the fore.

The Prophet and his companions devoted their lives to achieving their "noble goals" and set a pattern to be followed.

“They set examples and produced heroes who are really worthy of being followed by our young generations,” the sermon said.

"So, let us all cement in our youngsters' minds and souls respect for such great lessons and examples."