خولة بنت ثعلبة الأنصارية
Khawla bint Thalaba al-Ansariyya
The Woman Who Petitioned Heaven
Relationship with the Prophet ﷺ
The revelation of an entire chapter of the Qur'an (Surah al-Mujadilah) in response to Khawla's petition demonstrates that the Prophet recognized the legitimacy of women's grievances and took them before Allah Himself.
Key Life Events
Her husband performed zihar against her
She complained to the Prophet and Surah al-Mujadilah was revealed for her case
Islamic law was reformed through her petition
Full Biography
Khawla bint Thalaba was the wife of Aws ibn al-Samit. When he performed zihar (declaring his wife unlawful to him as his mother's back), she came to the Prophet with her complaint. Her situation was so moving that the Prophet could not answer her initially; instead, a revelation came down (Surah al-Mujadilah) specifically addressing her case. This chapter of the Qur'an itself became her testimony to the justice of Islam. She is remembered as the woman whose cry reached the heavens and changed Islamic law.
Famous Quotes
"O Messenger of Allah, my husband has declared me unlawful. I have children and I need him."
Lessons for Your Life
Persistence in seeking justice resonates with Divine will.
A woman's voice can reshape entire legal systems.
Allah hears the cry of the oppressed and responds.
How to Be Like Them
Want to walk in the footsteps of Khawla bint Thalaba al-Ansariyya? Begin with these practical steps drawn from their life.
- 1
Persistence in seeking justice resonates with Divine will.
- 2
A woman's voice can reshape entire legal systems.
- 3
Allah hears the cry of the oppressed and responds.