Khadijah bint Khuwaylid holds a unique and honored position in [Islamic history](/dashboard/wiki/saba-sheba-and-the-queen-bilqis) as the first person to believe in the prophethood of [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ. Known for her intelligence, wealth, and strong character, she played a crucial role in the early days of Islam by supporting the dawah with her resources and faith. Her life and legacy continue to inspire Muslims worldwide.
## Early Life and Background
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid was born into the respected [Quraysh](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/fihr-ibn-malik) tribe of Mecca. She was known for her noble lineage and was a successful businesswoman who managed her own trade caravans. Her wealth and reputation made her one of the most prominent [women](/dashboard/wiki/asiyah-bint-muzahim) in Meccan society. Despite the male-dominated environment of 6th-century Arabia, Khadijah's acumen in commerce earned her widespread respect.
## Marriage to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Khadijah proposed marriage to [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ after being impressed by his honesty and character during business transactions. At the time, Muhammad ﷺ was a young man known for his trustworthiness, earning the nickname [Al-Amin](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad-ibn-abdullah-ibn-abd-al-muttalib-ibn-hashim) (the trustworthy). Their marriage was marked by mutual respect, love, and support. Khadijah was approximately 15 years older than Muhammad ﷺ, and their union was monogamous until her death.
## The First Believer in Islam
When [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ received the first revelation from Allah through Angel Gabriel, Khadijah was the first person he confided in. She immediately believed in his prophethood and became the first Muslim, hence known as 'The First Believer.' Her faith and reassurance were vital to Muhammad ﷺ during the initial period of revelation when he faced doubt and fear. A [hadith](/dashboard/wiki/aisha-bint-abi-bakr-the-scholar) quotes the Prophet ﷺ saying, "She believed in me when no one else did" (Sahih [al-Bukhari](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/musa-ibn-isma-il-al-bukhari)).
## Support for the Dawah
Khadijah supported the dawah (Islamic mission) with her wealth, providing comfort and security to [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ and the early Muslim community. She used her resources to protect and assist the nascent Muslim group, which faced persecution from the [Quraysh](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/fihr-ibn-malik). Her home became a safe haven for early Muslims, and her encouragement helped sustain the Prophet ﷺ through the challenges of spreading Islam.
## Motherhood and Family
Khadijah and [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ had four daughters: [Zaynab](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/zaynab), [Ruqayyah](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/ruqayyah), Umm Kulthum, and Fatimah. Fatimah, in particular, holds a special place in Islamic tradition as the beloved daughter of the Prophet ﷺ and an important figure in her own right. Khadijah's role as a mother complemented her other responsibilities, and her family life is often cited as an example of piety and devotion.
## Death and Legacy
Khadijah passed away in 619 CE, a year known as the Year of Sorrow, which also saw the death of [Abu Talib](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/abu-talib), the Prophet's uncle and protector. Her death was a profound loss for [Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/muhammad) ﷺ and the early Muslim community. Despite her passing, her legacy endures as a symbol of faith, strength, and unwavering support for Islam. She is remembered and honored in Islamic teachings and history as the first believer and a pillar of the early Muslim ummah.