HER PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE

 FAJR REMINDER: HER PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE

By: Umm Affān

Dhū al-Ḥijjah 27, 1447 (13-June-2026)

After our beloved mother, Sawdah Bint Zam’ah Ibn Qays (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha), graciously gave up her allotted night to Ā’ishah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha) to remain among the wives of the Prophet (ﷺ), she continued to enjoy his companionship, benefit from his teachings, and follow his noble example.

Dear sisters, how much importance do you attach to seeking knowledge of the Dīn? What sacrifices are you willing to make to learn and practice Islām? Do you struggle to memorize portions of the Qur’ān, learn Aḥādīth, or attend gatherings of knowledge? It is important to remember that the greatness of the Muslim Ummah was built upon the sacrifices, perseverance, and dedication of the noble companions of the Prophet (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhum). Through their efforts, hardships, and unwavering commitment, the tree of Islām flourished, and today we continue to enjoy its fruits. Sadly, many of us have become less enthusiastic about seeking knowledge, drawing closer to Allāh, and striving to improve ourselves.

One of the remarkable qualities of Sawdah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha) was her eagerness to learn. She would not hesitate to ask the Prophet (ﷺ) questions whenever she needed clarification. Ibn ‘Abbās (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhumā) said: “A sheep belonging to Sawdah Bint Zam’ah died and she said, ‘O Allāh’s Messenger! So-and-so (sheep) has died.’ He said, ‘Why did you not use its skin?’ She said, ‘Should we use the skin of a sheep that has died?’ Allāh's Messenger said, Allāh only said, (Say: “I find not in that which has been revealed to me anything forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat it, except Maytah (a dead animal) or blood poured forth, or the flesh of swine...) You will not be able to eat it if you tan its skin and benefit from it. So she had the sheep skinned, the skin was tanned and made into a water skin that she kept until it wore out.” [Tafsīr Ibn Kathīr 6:145]

Allāhu Akbar! This narration underscores the importance of asking questions and seeking beneficial knowledge. Muslim women should make sincere efforts to learn their religion properly, and Muslim men should likewise pursue knowledge and support the women under their care in doing the same.

I beseech Allāh (ﷻ), the Most Merciful, to shower His Mercy upon our mother, Sawdah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha), and to grant us the zeal, sincerity, and dedication to seek beneficial knowledge and act upon it. Aameen.