Age of Hadhrat Aai'sha (Radiyallahu Anha) when she got married
Q: Could the respected Scholar please cite a simple, correct and clear explanation for the following question:
A Scholar was asked the explanation for the marriage of our Beloved Nabi (Sallah Alahi Wasallam) to Our respectful Mother Aysha radhiallahi anhu at age 8 and consummation at 12. The questioner was a non muslim in front of a diverse religion population. The question was directed at the vast age gap and young age of Our respectful Mother Aysha adhiallahi anha. The questioner said it is against the constitution and it amounts to statuary rape (ALLAH protect us from such statements).
The response of the scholar was that the ages were incorrect and narrations suggest that Our respectful Mother Aysha radhiallahi anhu was 18.
What is the correct and authentic age according to the narrations? Undoubtedly, there cannot be an iota of doubt and we do not have to compromise with regards to our Deen. However our Deen is Pure an there is always a response to clear all doubts, Shukran to our Respected Scholars. What would be the best and most appropriate answer for us laymen muslims and non muslims if the narrations suggest Our respectful Mother Aysha radhiallahi anha was 8 and 12 which is against the constitution?