Asiya (RA) Story of a Woman Who Chose Faith Over Power

Written by Jamila Jones

On 14/03/2025
asiya ra story poster

Asiya (RA) story is one of faith, resilience, and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on generations of women. Asiya bint Muzahim (RA), the wife of Pharaoh and one of the greatest women in Islam, remained steadfast in her belief in Allah despite being married to one of the most oppressive rulers in history. The Asiya (RA) story is a testament to courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith, proving that true strength comes from trusting in Allah.

Watch the Full Discussion on Ramadan FM

We had the honour of discussing the story of Asiya (RA) on Ramadan FM’s Sisters Heritage Show. If you prefer to listen to the discussion, watch the full episode here:

Key Timestamps for Quick Navigation:

[4:03] – The Honour of Asiya (RA) in Islam

[6:16] – Asiya’s Role in Saving Musa (AS)

[8:40] – The Courage of Pharaoh’s Hairdresser

[13:50] – How Asiya (RA) Declared Her Faith

[19:50] – Lessons for Women Today

[36:34] – Takeaway Reflections & Call to Action

If you prefer to read, continue below as we explore Asiya RA story and what it means for us today.

open quran with thr prayer beads

Asiya (RA) A Woman of Strength and Faith

Asiya (RA) story is one of faith, resilience, and empowerment. She was the wife of Pharaoh, one of the most powerful and ruthless rulers in history. Despite living in luxury and wealth, her heart was never attached to the material world. Instead, she was drawn to the truth of Tawheed (the Oneness of Allah).

Her most defining moment in Asiya (RA) story was when she discovered a crate floating in the Nile River. Inside was a baby, Musa (AS). Pharaoh had ordered the execution of all newborn boys of Bani Israel, fearing that one of them would overthrow him. But Allah had a greater plan.

“Do not kill him; perhaps he may benefit us, or we may adopt him as a son.”
(Surah Al-Qasas 28:9)

Despite Pharaoh’s tyranny, Asiya (RA) story teaches us the power of faith and compassion. She raised Musa (AS) with love and care, not knowing that he would one day be the Prophet who would stand against her husband’s oppression.

A Turning Point, The Hairdresser’s Courage

Years later, an event took place that would change Asiya’s (RA) life forever.

Pharaoh’s personal hairdresser, who was a secret believer in Allah, accidentally uttered “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) while combing the princess’s hair. When confronted, she refused to renounce her faith, even as Pharaoh ordered her and her children to be thrown into a pit of boiling oil.

Before being thrown in, her final request was:

“Gather our bones in one cloth and bury us together.”

This moment deeply impacted Asiya (RA). She realised that she could no longer remain silent about her own belief. She courageously stood before Pharaoh and declared her faith.

“O Pharaoh, I have disbelieved in you and I believe in the Lord of Musa and Haroon!”

This was a defining act of defiance, and it came with a cost.

Torture, Patience, and The Famous Dua

Pharaoh was enraged. He ordered that Asiya (RA) be tied down, tortured, and deprived of food and water. Yet, no amount of suffering could break her spirit.

During this intense trial, she made a powerful dua that has been preserved in the Qur’an:

“My Lord, build for me, near You, a house in Jannah, and save me from Pharaoh and his actions and save me from the wrongdoing people.”
(Surah At-Tahrim 66:11)

Allah accepted her dua, and before her soul was taken, He opened the doors of Jannah for her to see. She smiled as her soul departed, choosing Paradise over the kingdom of Pharaoh. 

Asiya (RA) story is recognised as one of the greatest women in Islam, her story remains a timeless example of faith, resilience, and the ultimate reward of trusting in Allah.

Lessons from Asiya (RA) Story

1 Faith Over Fear

Asiya (RA) teaches us that no matter the hardship, faith in Allah is the most powerful thing we have. Are there areas in your life where fear is stopping you from moving forward?

2 Empowering Women Through Sisterhood

Her story reminds us that women need safe spaces to support each other. This is why EmpowerHer Life was created, to provide Muslim women with gatherings, events, retreats, and workshops to build resilience, faith, and personal growth.

Join our next EmpowerHer Life event to connect with sisters who uplift and inspire.

3 Knowing Your Worth

Asiya (RA) had all the wealth of a queen, but she knew that true success is in the Hereafter. Today, many women struggle with self-worth, confidence, and feeling “enough.” Her story teaches us that our true value is in our connection with Allah, not material success.

4 Overcoming Hardships Through Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)

She remained patient and trusted Allah’s plan, even when everything around her seemed unbearable. How can we trust Allah’s plan more in our own lives?

Final Takeaways from the Ramadan Radio Show

Key lessons from our discussion was: 

  • The importance of trusting Allah’s plan – even when it’s unclear.
  • The value of strengthening our connection with Allah daily, knowing that when we put Allah first, everything else falls into place.

What is your biggest takeaway from Asiya’s (RA) story? Let us know in the comments.

Join the EmpowerHer Life Movement

If you loved this discussion, get involved with EmpowerHer Life, where we hold faith-driven business networking events, personal growth workshops, and retreats to help Muslim women build confidence, purpose, and sisterhood.

Join Our Next Event Here!

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