Hazrat Ali (RA), the revered cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), imparted invaluable wisdom and guidance throughout his life. Among his teachings were insights into recognizing virtuous women. He identified certain characteristics that serve as markers of fidelity and integrity. In this article, we explore these qualities and reflect on their timeless relevance.
(1) Obedience to Spouse: A woman who disobeys her husband is considered to be lacking in faithfulness and should not be counted among the righteous. This underscores the importance of mutual respect and cooperation within a marriage.
(2) Guarding One’s Tongue: A virtuous woman exercises control over her speech, refraining from the use of harsh or unkind words. This quality serves as an indicator of her moral character and contributes to a harmonious and loving environment.
(3) Modesty in Appearance: A woman who flaunts her hair and ornaments is included among the less virtuous. This emphasizes the significance of modest dress and demeanor, which are integral to a woman’s dignity.
(4) Humility and Respect for Others: A woman who regards herself as more intelligent or capable than her family members is considered to be among the less virtuous. This highlights the importance of humility and respect towards others, regardless of one’s perceived abilities.
(5) Restraining from Idle Talk: A woman who habitually interrupts others and does not allow them to speak is not considered to be virtuous. This draws attention to the virtue of listening and giving others the opportunity to express themselves.
(6) Moderation in Sleep: A woman who indulges excessively in sleep is seen as lacking in productivity and virtue. This encourages individuals to strike a balance between rest and productivity in their daily lives.
(7) Avoidance of Excessive Laughter: A woman who laughs loudly and excessively is not counted among the virtuous. This suggests the importance of maintaining a dignified and composed demeanor.
(8) Respecting Family’s Honor: A woman who speaks ill of her family members is considered to be lacking in virtue. This underscores the significance of safeguarding the honor and reputation of one’s family.
(9) Resisting Gossip and Backbiting: A woman who indulges in gossip and backbiting is not regarded as virtuous. This emphasizes the moral duty to refrain from spreading rumors or speaking ill of others.
(10) Avoidance of Frequenting Markets: A woman who spends an excessive amount of time in the markets instead of tending to her home is not seen as virtuous. This highlights the importance of prioritizing responsibilities and managing time efficiently.
In conclusion, the teachings of Hazrat Ali (RA) offer valuable insights into recognizing virtuous women. These qualities serve as a guide for individuals seeking to cultivate and recognize fidelity, integrity, and moral character. It is important to remember that these teachings are not limited to any specific time or culture but hold timeless relevance in guiding individuals towards a life of virtue and righteousness.