The Greatest Women Collection - Where it began
Aug 06, 2024
In the name of Allāh, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful.
It all began with a simple yet profound realisation. Growing up, like many of us, we were captivated by the magic of Disney and the charm of Nickelodeon. It felt innocent at the time, but as we grew older, the content that once seemed harmless now revealed its deeper, often subtle, impact and influence.
As a mother and educator to daughters, I began to understand the importance of genuine and sincere role models in a world which often celebrates the opposite. But alhamdulillāh, our faith provides us with beautiful examples to aspire towards. This understanding inspired us to create something meaningful not just for our daughters but for all the young girls who need true role models.
Inspired by the ḥadīth in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī where Allāh’s Messenger ﷺ says, “Everyone will be with those whom he loves,” We wanted to create something that would instil a love and admiration for the greatest women in Islam. This is how The Greatest Women Collection was born.
The Collection
1. Āsiyah ʿalayhāssalām
Āsiyah, a queen in all interpretations of the word, chose an everlasting abode in Jannah over the luxuries of this world. Her story is encapsulated in an illustration of a palace inspired by her beautiful duʿāʾ in the Qurʾān: “My Lord, build for me near You a house in Paradise.” Etched above the palace entrance is an intentional reference to the verse from the Qurʾān: “Enter in peace and security” (15:46). A reminder that Jannah is our “forever home.”
2. Fāṭimah radhiallāhu anhā
Fāṭimah, the Queen of Jannah, held a special place in the heart of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ, who would stand in honour of her as she graced the room. Despite her hands being tired and aching, she was offered a solution of prayer instead of a maid. This illustration, inspired by her strength and faith, serves as a reminder to always turn to Allāh first.
3. Khadījah radhiallāhu anhā
Khadījah, the beloved wife of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ, provided unparalleled support, comfort, and love. The illustration of an arch symbolises the support and foundation she provided. It represents something to lean on, take shelter in, and build upon, just as she was for the Prophet ﷺ.
4. Maryam ʿalayhāssalām
Maryam, the only woman mentioned by name in the Noble Qurʾān, is described as pure and chaste. The illustration is inspired by her miraculous labour, where she shook the trunk of a palm tree and was provided with fresh ripe dates and cool water. This serves as a reminder that Allāh’s help is always near, especially in times of hardship.
The end result is four pieces of artwork printed with exceptional quality, each telling a story and providing a motivational reminder. As the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said:
“Sufficient for you among the women of mankind are Maryam bint ʿImrān, Khadījah bint Khuwaylid, Fāṭimah bint Muḥammad, and Āsiyah the wife of Firʿawn.”
In a world where representation is crucial, the role models available to me as a child fell short of reflecting the values and ideals I hold dear as a Muslimah. That’s why The Greatest Women Collection was created - to inspire and represent the true meaning of being a Muslimah, as a mother, wife, and daughter. Āsiyah, Maryam, Khadījah, and Fāṭimah - these are the women who embody the strength, faith, and virtue that I want my daughters, and all young girls, to aspire to. They are the true examples of what it means to live a life of purpose, devotion, and integrity.
May these prints serve as a daily reminder of the extraordinary women in our faith and inspire us all to follow in their footsteps, in shā Allāh.
Coming soon: A special resource for the queens of Jannah.