According to historical accounts found in the Sirah and Tarikh literature, there are differing opinions regarding the age at which Aisha, the wife of Prophet Muhammad, consummated her marriage. Ibn Sa’d’s biography states that Aisha was between six and seven years old at the time of her marriage, while Ibn Hisham’s biography suggests she may have been ten years old.
Ibn Sa’d, a prominent Muslim scholar and historian, records in his biography that Aisha’s marriage to Prophet Muhammad took place when she was between six and seven years old. This indicates that the marriage contract was formalized during this period. However, it is important to note that consummation of the marriage, which refers to the physical relationship between husband and wife, may not have occurred immediately.
On the other hand, Ibn Hisham, another well-known biographer of Prophet Muhammad, suggests that Aisha was ten years old at the time of her marriage. This implies that the consummation of the marriage might have taken place at a later stage, possibly when Aisha was around the age of ten.
It is crucial to approach these historical accounts with caution and acknowledge that there are discrepancies and uncertainties surrounding the exact age of Aisha at the time of consummation. The lack of precise records from that era and the passage of time have contributed to these variations in accounts.
It is also worth mentioning that cultural and societal norms regarding marriage practices were different during that time period. Child marriages were not uncommon and were accepted in many societies. However, it is essential to evaluate historical events within their own context and avoid judging them solely based on contemporary standards and values.
To conclude, the age at which Aisha consummated her marriage is a topic of debate among historians and scholars. While Ibn Sa’d’s biography suggests she was between six and seven years old at the time of her marriage, Ibn Hisham’s account proposes that she may have been ten years old. It is important to approach these accounts with caution and consider the historical context in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding Aisha’s marriage.