FREEDOM OF THOUGHT

In Madinah, there lived a Muslim man and a Muslim woman from the slave class. The man’s name was Mugeeth, and the woman’s name was Bareerah. After some time, Bareerah was set free. As per Islamic law, once she became free, she was given the choice to either remain with her former husband or to separate from him. Bareerah chose to separate.

However, Mugeeth was deeply attached to her and hoped she would change her decision and agree to live with him again.

This is a long story. Many details about it are found in hadith collections, and some scholars have even written full-length works on the story of Bareerah and Mugeeth. In summary, the matter was eventually brought before the Prophet of Islam. At the time, Bareerah was walking ahead, while Mugeeth—who was dark-skinned—was following behind her in a state of sorrow, with tears soaking his beard.

According to one narration: The Prophet said, “It would be good if you took him back.” Bareerah asked, “Are you ordering me to do so?” He replied, “No, I am only making a suggestion.” Bareerah responded, “I have no need for him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 5283)

This is an outstanding and ultimate example of how much freedom Islam gives to both women and men. Such freedom is not a sign of defiance but a recognition of human nature. A person’s intellectual and emotional growth can only take place in an environment where they are free to make their own choices. Just as a tree grows best in open air, the human mind and personality develop fully only when allowed the space for independent thought.