Maisara began unwrapping the sweet treasures of his story. Wonder filled Lady Khadija's eyes like moonlight. Oh, what marvels! She too had been blessed to witness some of these miracles firsthand.
This trading expedition led by Muhammad had been a tremendous success.
The caravan had crossed the valley of Usfan and reached Wadi Fatima. Maisara thought it appropriate that the Messenger himself should be the first to officially inform Khadija of their joyous return. So the rest of the party remained in the valley below.
Only the light of Mecca continued forward, riding his red camel. From her rooftop terrace, Lady Khadija and her companions watched this distant scene unfold. Amazing! Absolutely amazing! Clouds of shade traveled constantly with Muhammad, providing him shelter from the blazing sun.
Maisara began recounting his experiences with a hundred tongues. From the moment the clouds came as escorts providing shade, to how the exhausted camels suddenly moved with renewed vigor—everything, absolutely everything.
"We reached the town of Busra in Syria. Muhammad sat beneath a tree. My friend Nastur approached me with gleaming eyes. 'Who is that sitting there?' he asked.
"'He's from the Quraysh tribe, living in the sacred sanctuary,' I replied.
"Nastur said in amazement, 'There's a strong possibility he's the final prophet. Did you not see that redness in his eyes?' I had indeed been noticing how the clouds provided him shade and other signs.
"After gathering all the details from me, he approached Muhammad. 'The ancient sages informed us that the final prophet would one day rest beneath this very tree. All the signs have convinced me. I believe in you. If only I could be present when you receive your divine appointment! If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to see one more proof. Could you show me your shoulder?' The Prophet complied. Upon seeing the seal of prophethood there, Nastur bore witness to the truth."
Each of Maisara's experiences brought coolness to Lady Khadija's heart. Her heart beat rapidly with wonder. She rewarded Muhammad generously with fine camels and other gifts before sending him on his way.
What an extraordinarily beautiful human being! What supremely noble character! Could this magnificent soul—whom all of Mecca praised, whom every person desired as a life partner—could he possibly become her husband?
The possibility seemed remote. But perhaps a marriage proposal could be explored. The great lady began contemplating this possibility.
Lady Khadija summoned her trusted friend Nafisa bint Munya and expressed her desire to marry Muhammad.
Nafisa bint Munya approached the noble Messenger and tactfully broached the subject. "Why don't you consider marriage?" she asked.
"I haven't accumulated the necessary wealth for such a commitment," he replied.
"What if someone noble approached you with a marriage proposal—someone for whom wealth wouldn't be an issue—would you accept?"
"Who might that be?"
"Khadija bint Khuwaylid."
"Oh, how could such a thing come to pass?"
"You needn't worry about the arrangements. I can handle all the discussions."
The conversation ended there.
When Lady Khadija learned that the noble Messenger had no objections, she became joyful. She informed Abu Talib of the developments. When he arrived at her residence, he could scarcely believe this unexpected marriage proposal. "Are you joking with me?" This marriage discussion that he had never dared hope for seemed too good to be true. The honesty, noble character, and social acceptance of his beloved nephew had indeed brought him the most suitable bride possible.
"Please speak with my paternal uncle regarding this marriage," Lady Khadija requested of Abu Talib.
Everything proceeded auspiciously. The engagement was completed. The noble Prophet was twenty-five years, two months, and fifteen days old. Lady Khadija was forty years old.
In every way, she was the perfect bride for Mecca's prince. Both came from the most illustrious families of Mecca. Both were luminous beacons of goodness. Mecca sang sweet melodies of celebration. The people blessed them both.
For Al-Amin, a truly supportive wife.
