Tomorrow we commemorate the martyrdom of Lady Fatima Al-Zahra (SA), Our Lady of the World, Beloved Daughter of the Messenger, Wife of the Commander of the Faithful, and Mother of the Absolute Imam.
Lady Fatima Al Zahra (SA), known in the Islamic tradition as the “Lady of the Women of the World”, was the beloved daughter of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the devoted wife of Imam Ali (AS), and the mother of the Absolute Imam. She was born in Mecca on the 20th of Jumadi al-Thani in the 18th year of Hijra BC. Her parents, the Noble Lady Khadijah (RA) and the Messenger of Allah, showered her with love and care and she became deeply attached to both of them.
Fatima grew up in the Prophet’s household under the guidance of her father and the loving embrace of her mother. From an early age she witnessed the difficulties faced by the Prophet and was always by his side, providing support in all difficulties.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) paid special attention to her upbringing and molded her personality as the ideal model of a woman in Islam. If he was the perfect example for all men, she embodied the perfect example for all women. Fatima was a manifestation of devotion to God, reflected spiritual purity and holiness, and resembled her father not only in attitude but also in moral character. She was, as is often said, a mirror of Muhammad.
Fatima (AS) was awarded the title Al-Zahra, meaning “The Shining One”, and she was also known as Umm Abiha (“Mother of the Father”). This title reflects Mrs. Khadijah’s deep concern for the Prophet after his death. Her other titles include Sedike, Tahereh, Mobarakeh, Batur, Razieh, and Marziye.
Characteristics of Hazrat Fatima (SA)
Lady Fatima is revered as the “leader of women around the world” because the inheritance and legacy of the Prophet’s lineage is connected through her. In every verse of the Qur’an revealed regarding women, she stands as the supreme embodiment of its teachings. Throughout her life, she perfectly fulfilled her role as a devoted daughter, faithful wife, and nurturing mother.
Her generosity was unparalleled. No one who walked through her door left empty-handed. Throughout her life, she did not request anything from Imam Ali (AS). As a mother, she raised outstanding children. Its influence continues to shape history in ways that time cannot erase.
Lady Fatima (SA) also exemplified the virtue of patience. Despite facing severe challenges, including attacks on her father, husband, and herself, she remained steadfast in her faith in God and in her principles.
Her intellectual and spiritual status is evident in her famous Fadak sermons. There she expressed profound insights into the oneness of God, clarified her understanding of the prophet’s mission, and provided a concise and powerful explanation of the concept of Imamate.
Words of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about Hazrat Fatima (SA)
Fatima was the youngest of the Prophet’s children, and the Prophet considered her an angel in human form, an inseparable part of himself. His joy increased each time he saw her. The last house he visited before leaving on his journey was hers, and the first house he entered after returning.
The Holy Prophet said: “Whoever hurts Fatima (physically or emotionally) hurts me. And whoever hurts me hurts Allah. Those who hurt Allah practice disbelief. O Fatima! If you are provoked to wrath, you are incurring the wrath of Allah. And if you are happy, it makes Allah happy.”
The Holy Prophet said, “Fatima is the peace of my heart.”
Every morning on his way to the mosque, he passed by Fatima’s house and said: “Peace be to you, the house of prophets and the source of messengers.”
Marriage of Imam Ali (AS) and Lady Fatima (SA)
The marriage of Imam Ali (AS) and Lady Fatima (AS) is remembered as an ideal Islamic union. Their home was built on piety, humility, and devotion to God. Imam Ali (AS) is admired for his deep knowledge and spiritual strength, but equally important was the deep love and gentle respect he expressed for Fatima.
The narration tells about Imam Ali’s love for her. He once said, “When I looked at her, all sorrow and sadness disappeared.” Although multiple marriages were customary at the time, Imam Ali (AS) respected Fatima’s feelings and dignity and chose not to marry another woman during Fatima’s lifetime.
Martyrdom of Hazrat Fatima (SA)
Fatima Al Zahra (AS) died at the age of 18 after a series of tragic events, including an attack on her home, miscarriage of her unborn child, and physical assault.
There are various theories regarding the date of her martyrdom. According to one narration (more common among Sunnis), she died on the 13th of Jumada al-Awal, 75 days after the death of the Prophet. A more widely recognized tradition in the Shi’ite tradition states that she was martyred on the 3rd of Jumada al-Thani in the 11th year of Aha, 95 days after the death of the Prophet.
Mrs. Fatima Zahra (SA)’s will to Imam Ali (AS)
On the last day of his life, when Hazrat Zahra (as) was suffering from illness, he asked Imam Ali (as) to carry out three wills. She said to Imam Ali,
1. Ali, you will personally conduct my funeral.
2. People who have offended me should not be allowed to attend my funeral.
3. My corpse should be taken to the cemetery at night.
Thus, Imam Ali performed all the funeral rites according to her will and carried her by night to Jannatul Baqi, accompanied only by her relatives and sons, where she was buried and her wishes were fulfilled.
The Commander of the Believers (AS), on the occasion of the burial of the Most High Woman Fatima (SA), while addressing the Holy Prophet at the tomb said, O Prophet of Allah! Please accept my greetings and the greetings of your daughter, who is buried near you and whom you will soon meet. O chosen apostle! Your daughter’s death has no patience or comfort for me. I lost both self-control and patience.
Reported by Mohadese Pakhravan