Maymouna

Maymouna bint al-Harith was the last woman the Prophet ﷺ married. Known for her piety and her kinship ties with great Companions, she transmitted several hadiths and was praised by Aisha for her fear of God.

Maymouna married the Prophet ﷺ towards the end of his life; she was his last wife. The marriage took place near Mecca and sealed important kinship ties — she was notably the aunt of several eminent Companions.

She was renowned for her devotion and her care for family bonds. Aisha herself testified to her deep piety and fear of God. She lived long after the Prophet ﷺ and died, it is said, at the very same spot where her marriage had taken place.

On the number of wives: contrary to a common misconception, Islam does not permit an unlimited number of wives. For believers, the Quran sets a maximum of four, subject to the condition of equal treatment, and recommends taking only one if there is fear of injustice (Surah an-Nisa, 4:3). The Prophet ﷺ held a special status (Surah al-Ahzab, 33:50); God then forbade him from marrying additional women (33:52), thus fixing the number of his wives.

Maymouna teaches the value of constancy in piety and care for family bonds. Praised by Aisha for her fear of God, she shows that a discreet but faithful life leaves the most beautiful memories.