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The question

How can the perfection of Fatimah, may God be pleased with her, mentioned in some narrations, be interpreted, given what is understood from her intense anger and jealousy, and her request for a servant? Do these matters contradict the concept of perfection, and why are other women—like Aisha, may God be pleased with her—not considered more perfect?

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Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) held a virtuous status, a high honor, and a perfect religiosity. She was among the best women in the world and the dearest of people to the heart of her father, Muhammad (peace be upon him).

It is mentioned that the authentic hadith concerning praise for perfection is limited to the mention of Asia and Maryam only. Any mention of Khadijah and Fatimah in some narrations is considered anomalous and unacceptable.

Fatimah's perfection was a possible human perfection; it does not imply infallibility from error or slip-ups. Rather, it signifies her utmost attainment in virtues and noble deeds.

Fatimah's anger was not blameworthy, whether it was her anger towards her husband Ali for an unknown reason, or her request for a servant due to her exhaustion from housework, or her anger at Ali's intention to marry the daughter of Abu Jahl. This latter was justified because Ali's intention violated a condition of her marriage, and it stemmed from the natural jealousy instilled in women.

Favoring between Aisha and Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with them both) cannot be pronounced with an absolute judgment. Instead, each is preferred in her specific aspects: Aisha is superior in knowledge, while Fatimah is superior in the honor of her origin, lineage, and leadership.

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Ftawy
Original fatwa ID
28128
Imported
Translation status
Source text, unreviewed
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