Trading Activities and Practices of Women during Makkan Period: An Overview

مکی عہدِ رسالت میں خواتین کی تجارتی سرگرمیاں اور طریقہ ہائے کار کا جائزہ

Abstract

The history of Arabia from the era of ignorance to the pure civilization of the Prophet Muhammadﷺ is witness to the economic activities of the women of Makkah. Some women took up activities with their diverse sectors in the field of trade for the sake of hobby, some for the sake of needs, some to support their family, some to protect and monitor their business. Among the most prominent businesswomen, the first name comes from Hazrat Khadija. She is followed by his sister Hala bint Khuwaylid and several other Sahabiat. Women used a variety of business methods to trade, because unlike men, they had different circumstances and resources, traveled far and wide alone, and sometimes it was not possible for them to buy goods from different regions. They need helpers and employees. Sometimes people could not pay at the same time, the business was run by writing the transaction. Items were also sold from house to house and even a single location was designated as a market or bazar. A possible introduction to the commercial activities and role of women in the Makkan period is discussed in this paper, so that a concise outline can be put forward to the readers.