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Previously, the biography of the three daughters of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam viz. Sayyidah Zainab, Sayyidah Ruqayyah and Sayyidah Umm Kulthum radiya Llahu ‘anhunna were documented, by which the honour and status of these pure chaste women is clearly depicted. We will now mention the biography of the fourth daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Under the details of the children of Sayyidah Khadijah radiya Llahu ‘anha in the previous pages, mention was made of her in brief. We now wish to write a detailed sequenced biography of her. Her virtues and merits (which are accepted by the consensus of scholars) will also be noted. However, the object is to concentrate on her character, actions and social life. (With the help of Allah Ta’ala)
There is a difference of opinion among the historians regarding the year of birth of Sayyidah Fatimah bint Rasulillah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Some write that Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was born during the period the Quraysh of Makkah were rebuilding the Ka’bah which happened approximately 5 years prior to the nubuwwah of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. At that time, the age of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was 35.[1] According to other scholars, her birth was close after nubuwwah when the age of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was 41. There are other views as well.[2]
According to the preferred view, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha is the youngest daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Her name is Fatimah and her famous titles are Zahra’ and Batul. All these four daughters viz. Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum and Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anhunna are the children of Sayyidah Khadijah radiya Llahu ‘anha and are biological sisters who were brought up in the blessed environment of the house of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. They reached maturity in the care of their mother and benefitted from the lofty personalities of their parents.
The Muhaddithin document the style and manner of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in the hadith books as:
فاقبلت فاطمة تمشى ما تخطئ مشية رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم شيئا
When Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha used to walk, her walk resembled the walk of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.[3]
The same subject has been documented in Tirmidhi from Sayyidah Aisha al Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha in the following words:
عن عائشة قالت ما رايت احدا اشبه سمتا و لا هديا برسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم
I have not seen anyone who resembles Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in his personality and character more than Fatimah.
The enmity of Quraysh towards Islam was from the very beginning who anticipated an opportunity to disgrace and humiliate the Muslims.
Sayyidina Ibn Mas’ud radiya Llahu ‘anhu narrates: “Once Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was performing salah in the haram near the Ka’bah. Some evil Quraysh made an evil plot. They took the intestines of a camel and put it on the back of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam while he was in sajdah. The Quraysh began laughing among themselves over this evil act.
و عن عبد الله بن مسعود قال … فانطلق منطلق الى فاطمة و هى جويرية فاقبلت تسعى و ثبت النبى صلى الله عليه و سلم ساجدا حتى القته عنه و اقبلت عليهم تسبهم فلما قضى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم الصلوة قال اللهم عليك بقريش اللهم عليك بقريش
Someone went to Fatimah to inform her. She was a small girl. She came running while Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam remained prostrate. She threw the intestines off him and began cursing the Quraysh. When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam completed his salah, he cursed: ‘O Allah, deal with the Quraysh! O Allah, deal with the Quraysh!’[4] This curse was accepted and majority of them were killed in the Battle of Badr.’”
The famous historical hijrah which took place could be found in much detail in the books of history. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam accompanied by Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu emigrated to Madinah before his family. After some time, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam made arrangements to bring his family and the family of Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu from Makkah which has been mentioned previously in the biography of Sayyidah Umm Kulthum radiya Llahu ‘anha. Here we will document the incident of the hijrah to Madinah of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha.
‘Allamah al Dhahabi rahimahu Llah has documented this incident in vol. 2 of Siyar A’lam al Nubala’ in the following words:
عن عائشة قالت لما هاجر رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم الى المدينة خلفنا و خلف بناته فلما قدم المدينة بعث الينا زيد بن حارثة و ابا رافع و اعطاهم بعيرين و خمسمائة دراهم اتخذها من ابى بكر ليشتريان بها ما تحتاج اليه من الظهر و بعث ابو بكر معهما عبد الله بن اريقط الليثى ببعيرين او ثلاثة و كتب الى ابنه عبد الله يامره ان يحمل اهله ام رومان و انا و اختى اسماء فخرجوا فلما انتهوا الى قدير اشترى بتلك الدراهم ثلاثة ابعرة ثم دخلوا مكة و صادفوا طلحة يريد الهجرة بال ابى بكر فخرجنا جميعا و خرج زيد و ابو رافع بفاطمة و ام كلثوم و سودة و ام ايمن و اسامة فاصطحبنا جميعا
Umm al Mu’minin Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha narrates: “When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam emigrated to Madinah, he left us and his daughters behind. When he reached Madinah, he sent Zaid ibn Harithah and Abu Rafi’ to us giving them two camels and five hundred silver coins he took from Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu in order so that they could buy any conveyances needed. Abu Bakr sent Sayyidina ‘Abdullah ibn Urayqit al Laythi with two or three camels and wrote to his son ‘Abdullah commanding him to bring his wife Umm Ruman, me and my sister, Asma’. They thus left. When they reached Qadir, they purchased three camels with the silver coins. They then reached Makkah and met Talhah who intended to emigrate with Abu Bakr’s family. We all then left together and Sayyidina Zaid and Abu Rafi’ left with Fatimah, Umm Kulthum, Sowdah, Umm Ayman and Usamah radiya Llahu ‘anhum. We then all met up.”[5]
After living in Madinah Tayyibah for some time, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam gave attention to the marriage of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in 2 A.H.
عن جعفر بن سعد عن ابيه ان عليا قال لما خطبت فاطمة قال النبى صلى الله عليه و سلم هل لك من مهر قلت عندى راحلتى و درعى فبعتهما باربعمائة و قال اكثروا من الطيب لفاطمة فانها امراة من النساء
Sayyidina ‘Ali al Murtada radiya Llahu ‘anhu relates: “When I proposed for Fatimah’s hand in marriage, Nabi salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked me: “Do you have money for dowry?” I said that I have my conveyance and my armour. I thus sold them in lieu of four hundred (silver coins). Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam advised me: “Apply much perfume for Fatimah for she is but a woman (who love the smell of perfume).’”[6]
In Sunan of Sa’id ibn Mansur, a narration with the subject matter similar to the above can be found.[7]
Regarding the house of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam commanded Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha to decorate it for Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Sayyidah Umm Salamah radiya Llahu ‘anha assisted her in this task. Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha reports that they began preparations and brought good quality sand from Wadi Batha’ with which they plastered the walls. They then cleaned and straightened the barks of date-palm tree and made two cushions out of them and prepared a dish with dates and raisins and a drink of sweet water. They then placed a stick in the corner of the room to hang clothes and leather water-skin. When these arrangements were completed, Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha commented:
فما راينا عرسا احسن من عرس فاطمة
We never saw a marriage more exquisite than that of Fatimah.[8]
With regards to the preparations of domestic belongings by Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam for Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, there is a separate heading in the books titled the wedding gift of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Accordingly, we will reproduce the narration from Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu in this regard.
عن على رضى الله عنه ان رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم لما زوجه فاطمة بعث معهما بخميلة و وسادة من ادم حشوها ليف و رحين و سقاء و جرتين
Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu reports that when Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam married Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha to him, he sent with them a big sheet, a leather cushion stuffed with barks of the date palm or idhkhir (scented) grass, a grinder, a leather skin and two jars.[9]
This was the concise wedding gift to Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha.[10] To fulfil her marital needs, these were all the belongings she had. From here, we learn about the simplicity of their lifestyle. No expensive ornaments or decorations are seen here. This is a lesson and example of simplicity for the ummah. Living in this poverty is a practical manifestation that the main factor for a Muslim is concern for akhirah. This life is temporary – there is no need for great efforts and exertions to attain it.
When the preparations were made and the house and belongings of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was ready, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam contracted the nikah between Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu and Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. In the light of general narrations, 400 mithqal was stipulated as dowry. According to Fadil Zarqani, etc. senior Sahabah (Sayyidina Abu Bakr, Sayyidina ‘Umar, Sayyidina ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhum, etc.) were invited for the nikah and were witnesses to it. This nikah ceremony was very simple. Neither any formalities were carried out nor any customs.
After the nikah was performed, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam sent his daughter with Sayyidah Umm Ayman radiya Llahu ‘anha to Sayyidina ‘Ali’s radiya Llahu ‘anhu house. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha went walking. No arrangements were made for a conveyance or carriage. It is written in her biography that the nikah of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu took place after the Battle of Badr in Ramadan 2 A.H and the marriage was consummated a few months later in Dhu al Hijjah of the same year. According to some historians, Sayyidah Fatimah’s radiya Llahu ‘anha age at that time was 15 years and 5 months while others say that she was 18 years old. There are other views as well. The age of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu according to the widely accepted view was 21.[11] And Allah Ta’ala knows the truth.
Note
Regarding the marriage of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu and Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, we have mentioned only a few brief headings with sufficient material. Other authors have documented innumerable lengthy narrations; the authenticity of which is unknown. After scrutinizing those baseless narrations, the ‘ulamaʾ have indicated to abstain from them. Ibn Kathir rahimahu Llah writes:
و قد وردت احاديث موضوعة فى تزويج على بفاطمة لم نذكر رغبة عنها
Scores of fabricated narrations are related about Sayyidina ‘Ali’s radiya Llahu ‘anhu marriage to Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha which we have not mentioned refraining from them.[12]
After the marriage of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha to Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was contracted, their marital life began. Many narrations indicate that they did not possess any smart bedding and the spouses did not have separate sleeping clothes. The following narration of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu depicts this:
عن مجالد بن شعبة قال انا من سمع عليا رضى الله عنه يقول على المنبر نكحت ابنة رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم و ما لنا فراش ننام عليه الا جلدة شاة ننام عليه بالليل و نعلف عليه الناضح بالنهار
Mujalid ibn Shu’bah rahimahu Llah says, “I heard Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu declaring while on the pulpit, ‘I married the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and our condition was that we had no bedding to sleep upon besides sheepskin. We would sleep on it at night and we would place fodder on it during the day for the camel.’”[13]
Household chores are necessary in marital life. Until these are not carried out properly, the affairs of the house do not run smoothly.
قضى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم على ابنته فاطمة بخدمة البيت و قضى على على (رضى الله عنه) بما كان خارجا من البيت من خدمة
Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam decided that his daughter Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha will handle internal household chores while Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu will handle external household chores.[14]
Another narration from Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu states that he told his mother Fatimah bint Asad radiya Llahu ‘anha, “I will fulfil the outside needs of the house while Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha will serve you in the house by grinding flour, kneading flour, baking bread, etc.”[15]
Regarding this, the Shia ‘ulamaʾ also write regarding them that Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha would take care of the inside household chores while Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu would manage the outside household chores.[16]
When Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha began living with her husband, she would complete the household chores all by herself as mentioned before. It was the beginning stages of Islam. Sometimes, slaves and slave girls would come after conquests and would be distributed among the Muslims. Once, some slaves came into the possession of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, and Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu advised Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha to go to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and request for a slave who could assist in her household chores; thus absolving her of the burden. Thus, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha went to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, but there were some other people by him talking to him. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha thus returned and was unable to make her request. After some time, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam went to the house of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was also present. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha the reason for coming to him. Out of modesty, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha remained silent. Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu took up the courage to tell Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and explained, “Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha does all the house work herself. She grinds the mill which have caused calluses on her hands. She carries water bags of water which have left marks on her body. Some slaves have come to you so I advised her to request for a slave so that she can be saved from these burdens.” In reply, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam advised his daughter to do her house work herself. He then told her that when she intends sleeping at night, she should recite Subhan Allah 33 times, Al Hamdu li Allah 33 times and Allahu Akbar 34 times which equal to a 100. These are better for you than a slave. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha replied, “I am pleased with Allah and His Rasul.”
Many ‘ulamaʾ have related this incident. The following references may be checked.
There is a great lesson for women in this incident. The households which were lofty in Islam, their women folk lived with simplicity. They would do housework themselves and are deserving of great rewards. They have set an example for the upcoming ummah.
Similar incidents of her poverty stricken life have been documented by many authors. An incident regarding the simple dress of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha is reported by Sayyidina Anas radiya Llahu ‘anhu.
عن انس ان النبى صلى الله عليه و سلم اتى فاطمة بعبد قد وهبه لها قال و على فاطمة ثوب اذا قنعت به راسها لم يبلغ رجليها و اذا غطت به رجليها لم يبلغ راسها فلما راى النبى صلى الله عليه و سلم ما تلقى قال انه ليس عليك باس انما هو ابوك و غلامك
Sayyidina Anas radiya Llahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam brought a slave – which he had gifted Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha – to her. She was wearing a piece of cloth (which was small) that if she had to cover her head, her feet would be exposed and if she covered her feet, her head would be exposed. When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam saw her plight he consoled her saying, “Do not worry. It is only your father and your slave.”[17]
We learn from this that the clothes of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha at home were barely sufficient. There were no formalities in clothing. Whatever was available was worn. We also learn that it is permissible for a woman to come in front of her maharim with her body being partially uncovered [e.g. the hands, face, etc.]. And if this happens within the confines of the house, it is alright.
It is appropriate to mention here that primarily Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam declined the request for a slave of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. This was in the initial stages of Islam. Thereafter, when conditions became better, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam gave Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha a slave. Therefore, there is neither contradiction nor objection in these narrations.
The Battle of Uhud is one of the famous battles fought in Islam. It was a fearsome offensive attack of the kuffar upon the Muslims wherein the Muslim warriors fought bravely and the Muslim women participated by serving in this arduous battle. Thus, Umm al MuʾmininSayyidah Aisha Siddiqah, Umm Sayt and other women radiya Llahu ‘anhunna assisted and helped the mujahidin to a great extent. In this very battle, when the blessed tooth of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was injured, Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu brought water and Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha began cleaning the wound of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.
كانت فاطمة بنت رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم تغسله و على يسكب الماء بالمجن فلما رات فاطمة ان الماء لا يزيد الدم الا كثرة اخذت قطعة من حصير فاحرقتها و الصقتها فاستمسك الدم
Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha – the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam – was cleaning the wound while Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was pouring water from a shield. When Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha saw that the water was only increasing the flow of blood, she took a piece of straw mat, burnt it and applied it to the wound which caused the flow of blood to cease.[18]
Sayyidina ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr ibn al ‘As radiya Llahu ‘anhu is a companion of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. He relates that they accompanied Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam to the burial of a deceased. When they were complete with the burial and Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam returned, we joined him. As Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam approached the house, a woman was coming – the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha.
فقال لها رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم ما اخرجك يا فاطمة من بيتك؟ قالت اتيتك يا رسول الله اهل هذا البيت فرحمت اليهم ميتهم او عزيتهم به
Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked her, “O Fatimah! What is the reason for you exiting your home?” She replied, “O Rasulullah! I went to the family of the deceased, spokes words of mercy to them regarding their deceased and consoled them.”[19]
From this we learn the permissibility of a woman going to the bereaved for condolence and praying. This brings solace to the bereaved, they are comforted somewhat and social ties are maintained which is a source of great rewards.
عن ابى سعيد قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم يا فاطمة قومى الى اضحيتك فاشهديها فان لك بكل قطرة تقطر من دمها ان يغفر لك ما سلف من ذنوبك قالت يا رسول الله النا خاصة اهل البيت او لنا و للمسلمين؟ قال بل لنا و للمسلمين
Sayyidina Abu Sa’id al Khudri radiya Llahu ‘anhu reports that Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said, “O Fatimah! Stand up and go witness the slaughtering of your sacrificial animal. Every drop of blood that falls will earn you forgiveness of your past sins.” She enquired, “O Rasulullah! Is this specially for us, the ahlul Bayt or for us and the other Muslims?” “For us and the Muslims,” replied Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.[20]
To be present at the sacrifice of an animal is an act of splendid rewards. To witness this scene with sincerity brings great virtue and is the cause of forgiveness of a Muslim’s sins. This is established from this narration.
ام هانى بنت ابى طالب تحدث انها ذهبت الى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم عام الفتح فوجدته يغتسل و فاطمة بنته تستره بثوب قالت فسلمت عليه و ذلك ضحى قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم من هذه فقلت انا ام هانى قالت فلما فرغ من غسله قام فصلى ثمان ركعات
Umm Hani radiya Llahu ‘anha relates that at the Conquest of Makkah in 8 A.H, she went to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and found him bathing while Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha his daughter was veiling him. She says, “I greeted him with salam, and it was late morning. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked as to who it was, so I said, ‘Me Umm Hani.’” She continues, “When he completed his bath, he stood up and performed 8 raka’at of salah.”[21]
Sayyidah Umm Sulaiman radiya Llahu ‘anha reports, “Once I went to Umm al MuʾmininSayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha and asked a ruling regarding the meat of a sacrificial animal. Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha explained that initially Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam forbid the storing of the meat, but thereafter allowed it. The story is that once Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu returned home from a journey. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha presented cooked meat of a sacrificial animal upon which Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu asked, ‘Did Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam not prohibit its consumption?’ Thereupon, Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu asked Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam the ruling regarding this. ‘It may be consumed throughout the year,’ was the reply of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.[22]
This narration was related previously from the book Ruhamaʾu Baynahum Hissah Siddiqi pg. 69 to show the mutual confidence and trust between Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah and Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anhuma.
Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha reports, “When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam would enter the Masjid, he would pray:
صلى على محمد و سلم و قال اللهم اغفرلى ذنوبى و افتح لى ابواب رحمتك
‘May salutations and mercy descend upon Muhammad. O Allah! Forgive my sins and open for me the doors of Your mercy.’
And when Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam would exit the Masjid, he would pray:
صلى على محمد و سلم و قال اللهم اغفرلى ذنوبى و افتح لى ابواب فضلك
‘May salutations and mercy descend upon Muhammad. O Allah! Forgive my sins and open for me the doors of Your grace.’”[23]
From this narration, the recitation of salah upon Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and reading the du’aʾ when entering and leaving the Masjid is established. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam reciting salah upon himself is also proven from this narration.
Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha narrates that when Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha would come to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, he would stand (in respect for her), hold her hand lovingly, kiss her and make her sit on his seat. And when Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam would go to Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, she would stand out of respect, kiss his blessed hand and allow him to sit on her place.[24]
From the above narration, the love Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam had and displayed for his beloved daughter and the mercy and compassion he exhibited for her sake is apparent.
Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was averse to worldly adornment and embellishment. There were no ornaments or decorations in the house of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam did not approve of decorations for his blessed children as well.
عن سفينة ان رجلا ضاف على ابن ابى طالب فصنع له طعاما فقالت فاطمة لو دعونا رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم فاكل معنا فدعوه فجاء فوضع يديه على عضادتى الباب فراى القرام فد ضرب ناحية البيت فرجع قالت فاطمة فتبعته فقلت يا رسول الله ما ردك قال انه ليس لى او للنبى ان يدخل بيتا مزوقا (رواه احمد و ابن ماجة)
Sayyidina Safinah radiya Llahu ‘anhu reports that a man visited Sayyidina ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib radiya Llahu ‘anhu. Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu prepared some food for him. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha suggested, “Should we not invite Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam to eat with us?” Thus, they invited him. He came and placed his hands on the door frame. He saw a decorated cloth hanging on one side of the house upon which he returned. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha says, “I followed him and asked, O Rasulullah, what made you return?” He replied, “It is not appropriate for me or for a Nabi to enter a decorated house.” [Narrated by Ahmed and Ibn Majah][25]
We learn from this that worldly glitter and glimmer had no value in the eyes of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, but instead there was aversion to it. It is also understood that it is not permissible to attend a gathering where some forbidden matter is present.
Once, the wives of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam sent Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha to him to sort out some affair. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was at that time in the home of Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha spoke about the matter, upon which Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said:
اى بنية ا لست تحبين ما احب قالت بلى قال فاحبى هذه
O my beloved daughter! Do you not love what I love? She replied, “Most definitely.” Then love her (i.e. Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha).[26]
We learn that Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha would certainly respect and honour Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha since she was Umm al Muʾminin and this was emphasised by Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam commanded her to love Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha and maintain a healthy relation with her. Whoever Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam loves deserves to be loved.
ان على بن ابى طالب خطب بنت ابى جهل على فاطمة فسمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم يخطب الناس فى ذلك على منبره هذا و انا (مسور بن مخرمة) يومئذ لمحتلم فقال ان فاطمة منى و انا اتخوف ان تفتن فى دينها ثم ذكر صهرا له من بنى عبد شمس فاثنى عليه فى مصاهرته اياه قال حدثنى فصدقنى و وعدنى فوفى لى و انى لست احرم حلالا و لا احل حراما و لكن الله لا تجمع بنت رسول الله و بنت عدو الله ابدا عند رجل واحد فترك على خطبة
[After the Conquest of Makkah,] Sayyidina ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib radiya Llahu ‘anhu proposed to marry the daughter of Abu Jahl – Juwairiyah. I heard Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam addressing the people regarding this while on his pulpit. This man and I (Musawwar ibn Makhramah) were in our teens then. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam declared, “Indeed, Fatimah is from me. I fear that she be trialled in her din (due to self-honour).” He then spoke about his son-in-law from Banu ‘Abd Shams and praised him for maintaining good relations with him saying, “He told me and was true to his word. He promised me and fulfilled his promise.” He salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam continued, “Neither do I prohibit a permissible action nor allow a forbidden action. However, Allah will not join the daughter of the Rasul of Allah with the daughter of the enemy of Allah in one man’s wedlock.” Hence Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu left the proposal.[27]
This incident is mentioned at many other places of Bukhari for example vol. 2 pg. 787, the chapter concerning a man defending his daughter out of self-honour and justice. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said, “Banu Hashim bin Mughirah sought my permission from me to marry their daughter to ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib. I flatly refused.” He repeated this several times.
Due to the apprehension of the anger of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu cancelled his plan. They reconciled and the matter dissolved. There is one thing to clarify here which will be done under the heading removing doubts in sha Allah Ta’ala.
It should be noted that there were altercations between the spouses. Sometimes Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam would come and make peace and harmony between them. Stories of this nature can be found in the books of both sects. And this is an indispensable element of marital life that there are ups and downs. At another occasion, there was a rift between them. Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu had a little harsh approach, so Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha complained to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam who instructed her, “O my daughter, you should be obedient to your husband. Which woman has such a husband that will just remain silent? He has the right to reprimand and admonish.”[28]
In the terminal illness of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, he issued many commands and orders and emphasised the fulfilment of these by the ummah. These guidelines are referred to as prophetic bequests. The muhaddithin and historians have recorded these in their books. We will reproduce the bequest to Sayyidah Fatimah and Sayyidah Safiyyah bint ‘Abdul Muttalib radiya Llahu ‘anhuma. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam emphasized upon them, amongst other things, the carrying out of good actions, declaring:
يا فاطمة بنت رسول الله يا صفية عمة رسول الله اعملا لما عند الله انى لا اغنى عنكما من الله شيئا
O Fatimah bint Rasulillah! O Safiyyah bint ‘Abdul Muttalib! Prepare for accountability before Allah. I cannot help you in any way in this regard.[29]
This bequest has a close relation with the life of every person. Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is declaring that
Besides this, intercession is another aspect which is correct on its place and will take place with the permission of Allah Ta’ala. The aim of this declaration was not to reject intercession.
In the last days of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, an incident occurred which has been narrated by Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha, “Once, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was resting at home and we were present at his side. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha came – and at that time she was the only living child of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Her walk resembled the walk of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam saw Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, he welcomed her and made her sit by him. He then began whispering something to her, due to which she began weeping uncontrollably. When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam saw her sadness, he whispered something again to which she laughed.”
When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam left the gathering, Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha asked Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha the secret. She responded, “I cannot disclose the secret of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.”
After the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha took an oath on the right she has over Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha to tell her the secret. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha responded, “The first time Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam whispered something to me he said, ‘Jibril ‘alayh al Salam comes every year and we revise the Qur’an once – I listen to him and he listens to me. However, this year we revised it twice. I divine from this that my death is close. O Fatimah! Fear Allah and exercise patience. I am the best forerunner for you.’ I began weeping on hearing this. When Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam observed my uneasiness and worry, he whispered to me that, O Fatimah, are you not pleased of being the queen of the women of Jannat.” Other narrations mention, “Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam told me that Allah Ta’ala had informed him that he was to pass away in this illness, hence I wept. He then whispered to me, ‘O Fatimah, you will be the first person from my family to join me.’ Hearing this, I was elated.”[30]
The readers should be aware that this incident took place in the last days of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam shortly after which Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam left the world. The narration establishing the high rank and honour of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha is related by none other than Sayyidah Umm al MuʾmininAisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha. The ummah learnt of this only from her. Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha left no stone unturned to enquire about this from Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha and inform the whole ummah. Furthermore, the relation and bond of those pure women remained blissful until the final stages. They would visit one another and had honour and respect for one another. The inheritance of Fadak, etc. did not cause any rifts between them, nor were their hearts soiled thereby.
The sickness of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam increased. When it intensified, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha said in anguish, “O the pain of my father!” Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam comforted her by saying, “There will be no discomfort for your father after today.” Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam then left this ephemeral world for the everlasting one.
اللهم صل على محمد و على ال محمد و بارك و سلم
The demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was the most catastrophic calamity the ummah faced and was an unbearable pain for the entire ummah. The wives of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, his relatives and the Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhum were all in a state of shock and devastation the details of which can be read in hadith and history books. Here, we will only mention about Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha.
After the death of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, she lamented, “O my beloved father! You answered the call of your Rabb! O my beloved father! Jannat al Firdows will be your abode! O my beloved father! We will convey the news of your death to Jibril ‘alayh al Salam !
The shrouding, burial, janazah salah, etc. of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam took place and then Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was buried in the blessed home of Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha. After the burial, when the Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhum were returning, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in devastation and grief addressed Sayyidina Anas ibn Malik radiya Llahu ‘anhu:
يا انس ا طابت انفسكم ان تحثوا على رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم التراب (رواه البخارى)
O Anas! Were you pleased to throw sand on Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam ? (Narrated by Bukhari)[31]
انا لله و انا اليه راجعون
In the last days, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam made several bequests to Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. One special bequest was regarding the prohibition of mourning that no traditional mourning should be carried out upon his death. As a result, many senior Shia scholars have narrated this from their leaders. We will present a few references from their authentic books in the following lines. Read carefully.
Muhammad ibn Yaqub Kulayni Razi narrates from Imam Muhammad Baqir radiya Llahu ‘anhu:
ان رسول الله صلى الله عليه و اله قال لفاطمة عليها السلام اذا انا مت فلا تخمشى على وجها و لا ترخى على شعرا و لا تنادى بالويل و لا تقيمى على نائحة
Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam told Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha: “When I pass away, do not scrape your face (out of grief), do not allow your hair to be disheveled, do not complain and do not allow a professional crier to cry over me.[32]
The renowned scholar Sheikh Saduq has narrated this same prophetic narration from Imam Muhammad Baqir radiya Llahu ‘anhu:
قال ان رسول الله صلى الله عليه و اله قال لفاطمة اذا انا مت فلا تخمشى على وجها و لا ترخى على شعرا و لا تنادى بالويل و لا تقيمى على نائحة
Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam told Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha: “When I pass away, do not scrape your face (out of grief), do not allow your hair to be disheveled, do not complain and do not allow a professional crier to cry over me.[33]
The meaning of the above bequest has been written by Baqir Majlisi in his famous book Hayat al Qulub with the following text:[34]
ابن بابویہ القمی بسند معتبر از امام محمد باقر روایت کردہ است کہ حضرت رسول در ہنگام وفات خود بحضرت فاطمہ گفت کہ اے فاطمہ چوں بمیرم ردے خود را براۓ من مخراش و گیسوۓ خود را
پریشان مکن و واویلا مگو و بر من نوحہ مکن و نوحہ گراں را مطلب
In this bequest, Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam has sternly forbidden all types of traditional mourning viz. scraping and smacking the face, opening the hair, complaining, wailing and shouting, etc. Through the medium of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha, the entire ummah has been notified that in the face of even the most catastrophic adversity, a Muslim should bear patiently and steadfastly and should abstain from displaying all types of impatience. Conforming to this bequest, the advice of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu to bear patiently every hardship and to abstain from all forms of customary mourning is narrated. The prohibition of traditional mourning has also been reported from Imam Zayn al ‘Abidin rahimahu Llah and the other fallible imams in Shia books. Muʾminin should not forget these bequests and orders of the A’immah. If you wish to verify this, take a look at your books. We have included this discussion after deep study of those references.
The era following the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was an extremely difficult time for Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha emotionally. Sayyidah Fatimah’s radiya Llahu ‘anha mother had passed away while she was an infant and her sisters had also left this world in her lifetime. Thereafter, the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was a colossal blow for her. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha displayed much perseverance and endurance. She only lived a few months after the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the details of which will ensue in the following pages. In this brief span, some important matters faced by Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha will be mentioned in sequence.
After the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu was appointed to be his undisputed khalifah which was agreed upon by the seniors of Abu Hashim with the consensus of the noble Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhum. He thereafter began executing the duties of khilafah. The khalifah would lead the five times daily salah and all the Sahabah of Madinah including the Banu Hashim radiya Llahu ‘anhum would perform behind him. Jumu’ah and other occasions were arranged under his supervision and the disputes of the ummah were settled by the judgement of the khalifah of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.
In those days, a claim of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha of her right in the wealth of fayʾ came to Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu. The income of Fadak was part of this wealth. The stance of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in this claim was that the wealth of fayʾ from which they would get a share in the time of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam should be given to them as inheritance. In response, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu informed her of the statement of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam :
نحن معاشر الانبياء لا نورث ما تركنا فهو صدقة
We the assembly of Ambiya, our wealth is not distributed as inheritance. Whatever we leave behind is charity. (It is waqf in the path of Allah for the Muslims.)
Nonetheless, you will continue getting the share you used to get in the time of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.
After receiving this satisfactory response to her claim, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha kept silent and did not make a claim for the rest of her life.
Regarding this discussion, more details will ensue in the following pages in sha Allah Ta’ala.
The relation between Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha and the first Khalifah Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu was harmonious. There was no rifts between them. After the claim of wealth, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha harboured no ill-feeling for Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu. To emphasise this, I will narrate the following incident.
قال دخلت فاطمة على ابى بكر فقالت اخبرنى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم انى اول اهله لحوقا به
Once, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha went to Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu. She stated, “Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam informed me that after his demise, I will be the first person from his family to join him.”[35]
Sayyidah Umamah bint Abi al ‘As radiya Llahu ‘anhuma is the daughter of Sayyidah Zainab and the biological niece of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anhuma. Her brief mention was made in the biography of Sayyidah Zainab radiya Llahu ‘anha.
In her last days, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha made a bequest to Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu regarding Sayyidah Umamah radiya Llahu ‘anha, “After I pass away, if you wish to remarry, then marry my niece Sayyidah Umamah radiya Llahu ‘anha.” This bequest has been recorded by many ‘ulamaʾ. We report from Usd al Ghabah. Ibn Athir Jazari rahimahu Llah writes:
و لما كبرت امامة تزوجها على بن ابى طالب رضى الله عنه بعد موت فاطمة عليها السلام و كانت وصت عليا ان يتزوجها فلما توفيت فاطمة تزوجها
When Umamah grew up, Sayyidina ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib radiya Llahu ‘anhu married her after the death of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha who had bequeathed ‘Ali to marry her. Hence, when Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha passed away, her married her.[36]
The Shia have corroborated the narration regarding the above bequest and have recorded it in their authentic books. Thus, it is mentioned in Furu’ Kafi:
عن ابى جعفر عليه السلام قال اوصت فاطمة الى على عليه السلام ان يتزوج ابنة اختها من بعدها ففعل
Abu Jafar ‘alayh al Salam relates, “Fatimah bequeathed ‘Ali ‘alayh al Salam to marry her niece after her death. He thus fulfilled the bequest.”[37]
We have mentioned many references from Shia books before under the heading the bequest of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in favour of Sayyidah Umamah radiya Llahu ‘anha in the biography of Sayyidah Zainab radiya Llahu ‘anha. Here, we just briefly touched on it. Those who desire to read a detailed account may peruse that section.
As mentioned previously, after the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was grief stricken and passed those days with patience and perseverance. ‘Ulamaʾ write that she was only 28 or 29 years of age and her children were still young. In her sickness, Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha – the wife of Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu – would care for her and serve her.
Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha is that fortunate woman who was firstly married to Sayyidina Jafar Tayyar radiya Llahu ‘anhu and bore children for him. After Sayyidina Jafar radiya Llahu ‘anhu was martyred in the Battle of Muta, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu married her. After the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha fell ill and Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha would look after her. At this time, she was in the wedlock of Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu. After his demise, she married Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu.
It is also accepted by the Shia that Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha the wife of Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu cared for Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in her terminal illness. Sheikh Tusi has emphatically stated in his book al Amali that Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu would care for Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha in her sickness and
و تعينه على ذلك اسماء بنت عميس رحمهما الله على استمرار بذلك
Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha would assist him which she did till the very end.[38]
One of the early Shia scholars Sulaim ibn Qais has written in his book:
و كان يصلى فى المسجد الصلوات الخمس فلما صلى قال له ابو بكر و عمر كيف بنت رسول الله (صلى الله عليه و سلم) الى ان ثقلت فسالا عنها
Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu would perform the five daily salah in Masjid Nabawi (in congregation). Once, when Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu completed his salah, Sayyidina Abu Bakr and Sayyidina ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhuma asked him, “What is the condition of the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam ?”[39]
It is clear from this narration that:
I mentioned this previously in the book Ruhamaʾ Baynahum sec. 1 pg. 69. Details can be found there.
Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha got ill 6 months after the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and remained ill for a few days. She passed away on Monday night 3rd of Ramadan 11 A.H. Her age at that time according to the scholars was 28/29 years. Many views are recorded regarding the age and date of death of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha by the historians. We have relied on the most authentic and accepted view regarding these.[40]
Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was the last child of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam to pass away. The only biological trace of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam left this world and reached Allah Ta’ala.
The death of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was a great blow especially to the Muslims of that era. There was no limit to the pain and grief of the noble companions present in Madinah at that time and there devastation had crossed the limits. All the inhabitants of Madinah were affected by this loss, especially the Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhum who understood that the last biological trace of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is now no more. Now, the only trace of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam that remains is the pure wives – the Ummahat al Mu’minin. In this state, it was the desire of everyone to attain the honour of participating in the janazah of the beloved daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. The scholars write that Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha passed away between Maghrib and ‘Ishaʾ. In this short span of time, those who were present all gathered.
Prior to leaving this world, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha bequeathed Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha to give her ghusl after she passes away with the help of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu. Accordingly, Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha arranged her ghusl with other women like Salma, the wife of Abu Rafi’ who is the slave of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Umm Ayman, etc. radiya Llahu ‘anhunna. Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu overlooked the entire ghusl.[41]
Some narrations concerning the bequests of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha regarding her ghusl are totally unreliable. As a result, the scholars have written:
و ما روى من انها اغتسلت قبل وفاتها و اوصت ان لا تغسل بعد ذلك فضعيف لا يعول عليه الله اعلم
What has been narrated that she bathed prior to her death and bequeathed that she should not be bathed thereafter is extremely weak and cannot be relied upon. And Allah knows best.[42] (The reason for its weakness is the tafarrud[43] of Ibn Ishaq)
Regarding the ghusl, what has been mentioned previously is authentic and correct i.e. Sayyidah Asmaʾ bint ‘Umays radiya Llahu ‘anha with the help of other women bathed her after her demise in accordance with the shar’i ruling since this is the shar’i ruling regarding the deceased.
After her ghusl and kafn was complete came the moment of her janazah salah. Sayyidina Abu Bakr and Sayyidina ‘Umar and other Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhum gathered. Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu told Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu to lead the salah. In response, Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu said that in front of the khalifah of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, I cannot go forward to perform the janazah. Only you have the right to perform the janazah, hence step forward and perform it. Accordingly, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu stepped forward and performed the janazah salah of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha with four takbir’s while everyone followed.
This has been mentioned by scores of authors with reliable references. We will reproduce some text for the benefit of the scholars:
عن حماد عن ابراهيم قال صلى ابو بكر الصديق على فاطمة بنت رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم فكبر عليها اربعا
Hammad rahimahu Llah narrates from Ibrahim rahimahu Llah who says, “Abu Bakr al Siddiq performed janazah salah upon Fatimah – the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam – and read the takbir four times.[44]
عن جعفر بن محمد عن ابيه قال ماتت فاطمة بنت النبى صلى الله عليه و سلم فجاء ابو بكر و عمر ليصلوا فقال ابو بكر لعلى بن ابى طالب تقدم فقال ما كنت لاتقدم و انت خليفة رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم فتقدم ابو بكر و صلى عليها
Jafar ibn Muhammad rahimahu Llah narrates from his father who explains, “Sayyidina Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha – the daughter of Nabi salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam – passed away. Sayyidina Abu Bakr and ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhuma came to perform salah. Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu told Sayyidina ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib radiya Llahu ‘anhu to lead the salah. He said, “It is not appropriate for me to go forward whereas you are the khalifah of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.” Accordingly, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu stepped forward and performed her janazah salah.[45]
It is befitting to quote a third text which Muhibb al Tabari has mentioned in his book Riyad al Nadirah:
عن مالك عن جعفر بن محمد عن ابيه عن جده على بن حسين قال ماتت فاطمة بين المغرب و العشاء فحضرها ابو بكر و عمر و عثمان و الزبير و عبد الرحمن بن عوف فلما وضعت ليصلى عليها قال على تقدم يا ابا بكر قال و انت شاهد يا ابا الحسن؟ قال نعم تقدم فوالله لا يصلى عليها غيرك فصلى عليها ابو بكر رضى الله عنهم اجمعين و دفنت ليلا خرجه البصرى و خرجه ابن السمعان فى الموافقة
Malik rahimahu Llah narrates from Jafar ibn Muhammad rahimahu Llah who narrates from his father who in turn narrates from his grandfather – ‘Ali ibn Hussain radiya Llahu ‘anhu – who explains, “Sayyidina Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha passed away between Maghrib and ‘Ishaʾ. Sayyidina Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, Al Zubair and ‘Abdul Rahman ibn ‘Awf radiya Llahu ‘anhum attended. When her body was placed for salah to be performed, Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu said, “Go forward, O Abu Bakr!” Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu responded, “While you are present, O Abu al Hasan?” Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu stated, “Yes. Step forward. No one besides you will perform her janazah salah.” Accordingly, Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu performed her janazah salah. She was buried at night. Al Basari has recorded this as well as Ibn al Samman in Al Muwafaqah.[46]
It appears in Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d:
عن مجالد عن الشعبى قال صلى عليها ابو بكر رضى الله عنه و عنها
Mujalid rahimahu Llah narrates from Al Sha’bi rahimahu Llah who states, “Sayyidina Abu Bakr performed her janazah salah – May Allah be pleased with him and her.”[47]
After the janazah salah was complete, Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was taken to Jannat al Baqi’ and buried at night according to the general narrations. Sayyidina ‘Ali, Sayyidina ‘Abbas and Sayyidina Fadl ibn ‘Abbas radiya Llahu ‘anhum descended into her grave to bury her. Regarding the burial and grave, many diverse narrations are found. We have recorded the above according to the generally accepted narrations.[48]
We have mentioned these few narrations regarding the janazah of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. Prior to this, in the kitab Ruhamaʾu Baynahum hissah awwal Siddiqi under the heading The discussion regarding the janazah of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha from page 170 to 176 we have mentioned this in detail including these narrations. If you wish to know more, kindly refer to that kitab. We will briefly mention some points regarding these narrations here.
What appears in some narrations that Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha was angry with Sayyidina Abu Bakr radiya Llahu ‘anhu, hence he was not informed of her illness, death, janazah and burial. These are false, and contrary to reality. These are the conjectures of some narrators which they have inserted into authentic narrations and propagated.
The first wife of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu was Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha. In her life, he did not marry anyone else. This was done to please and honour the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Similarly, the other sons-in-law maintained this honour i.e. Sayyidina Abu al ‘As and Sayyidina ‘Uthman radiya Llahu ‘anhuma.
The scholars have written regarding the children of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu from Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha that their first son was Sayyidina Hasan, the second was Sayyidina Hussain and the third son was Sayyidina Muhsin radiya Llahu ‘anhum who passed away in infancy. It is written in Nasab Quraysh that Sayyidina Hasan radiya Llahu ‘anhu was born in the middle of Ramadan 3 A.H while Sayyidina Hussain radiya Llahu ‘anhu was born in Sha’ban 4 A.H.[49] Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha has two daughters viz. Sayyidah Zainab bint ‘Ali and Umm Kulthum bint ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhum. Some scholars have recorded another daughter – Sayyidah Ruqayyah. However, according to the accepted view, she only had 2 daughters. Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha named her daughters after her sisters so that their remembrance remains fresh in her home. Sayyidah Umm Kulthum bint ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anha was married to Sayyidina ‘Umar radiya Llahu ‘anhu in 17 A.H whereas Sayyidah Zainab bint ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anha married Sayyidina ‘Abdullah ibn Jafar Tayyar radiya Llahu ‘anhuma.[50]
NEXT⇒ Important Discussions-Discussion 1: The Sorrow of Sayyidah Fatimah
[1] Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 8 pg. 11 – Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Isabah vol. 4 pg. 365 – Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Tafsir al Qurtubi vol. 14 pg. 242, 243 – (Surah al Ahzab)
[2] Al Isabah fi Tamiz al Sahabah vol. 4 pg. 365 – Fatimah al Zahra’ radiya Llahu ‘anha
[3] Muslim vol. 2 pg. 290 – The virtues of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Isti’ab vol. 4 pg. 363, 364 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Hilyat al Awliya’ vol. 2 pg. 39 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[4] Bukhari vol. 1 pg. 74 – The chapter concerning a woman throwing off some filth from a musalli
[5] Siyar A’lam al Nubala’ vol. 2 pg. 109 – Sayyidah Aisha Umm al Mu’minin
Al Bidayah vol. 3 pg. 202 – The chapter of his salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam entry into Madinah and where he stayed
[6] Al Tarikh al Kabir vol. 2 pg. 61 section 2 – Bab al ‘Ayn
[7] Kitab al Sunan vol. 3 pg. 154 – The chapter concerning dowry
[8] Al Sunan Ibn Majah pg. 139 – Kitab al Nikah, the chapter of walimah
[9] Musnad Ahmed vol. 1 pg. 104 – The musnadat of ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu
Al Fath al Rabbani Tartib Musnad Ahmed vol. 21 pg. 44, 45
Musnad Abi Ya’la al Mowsali vol. 1 pg. 202 – The musnadat of ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu continued …..
[10]continued from page
Dalaʾil al Nubuwwah vol. 2 pg. 430, 431 – The narrations concerning the marriage of Sayyidah
Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha the daughter of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam
Al Bidayah vol. 3 pg. 346 – The section of Sayyidina ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib radiya Llahu ‘anhu consummating the marriage with Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Bidayah vol. 6 pg. 332 – Concerning who passed away in the year 11 A.H
Al Sunan li al Nasa’i vol. 2 pg 77 – The chapter concerning a man giving his daughter a wedding gift
[11] Tafsir al Qurtubi vol. 14 pg. 242 – under the ayah O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters
(Surah Ahzab)
Al Ikmal fi Asma’ al Rijal pg. 613 – Sayyidah Fatimah Zahraʾ radiya Llahu ‘anha
Tahdhib al Asmaʾ wa al Lughat – Sayyidah Fatimah Zahraʾ radiya Llahu ‘anha
Sharh Mawahib al Laduniyyah vol. 2 pg. 203 – The marriage of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu to Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[12] Al Bidayah wa al Nihayah vol. 6 pg. 332 – The incidents of this year
[13] Kitab al Sunan vol. 3 pg. 154 – The chapter concerning dowry
Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 8 pg. 13 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[14] Hilyat al Awliyaʾ vol. 6 pg. 104 narration 340 – Damarah ibn Habib
[15] Siyar A’lam al Nubalaʾ vol. 2 pg. 91 – Sayyidah Fatimah bint Rasulillah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Isabah vol. 4 pg. 398, 399 – Sayyidah Fatimah bint Asad radiya Llahu ‘anha the mother of Sayyidina ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu
[16] Kitab al Amali vol. 2 pg. 274 – The majlis of Friday, 23rd of Rajab
[17] Al Sunan by Abu Dawood vol. 2 pg. 213 – The chapter regarding a slave seeing the hair of his woman master; Kitab al Libas
[18] Bukhari vol. 2 pg. 584 – Kitab al Maghazi; narrations concerning the Battle of Uhud
[19] Al Sunan by Abu Dawood vol. 2 pg. 213 – The chapter regarding condolence; Kitab al Janaʾiz
[20] Al Fath al Rabbani Tartib Musnad Ahmed vol. 13 pg. 59 – The chapter of sacrificing and encouraging it
[21] Al Sunan of Darami pg. 177 – Bab al Salat al Duha
Al Sirah al Nabawiyyah vol. 2 pg. 411 – The reason prompting the march towards Makkah and the Conquest of Makkah
Mishkat pg. 149 with reference to Bukhari and Muslim – The chapter regarding amnesty; section 1
Al Bidayah vol. 4 pg. 300 – The conditions around his salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam entry into Makkah
[22] Musnad Ahmed vol. 6 pg. 282 – The ahadith of Fatimah bint Rasulillah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[23] Musnad Ahmed vol. 6 pg. 286 – The musnadat of Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[24] Mishkat pg. 402 with reference to Abu Dawood – The chapter regarding shaking hands and embracing
[25] Mishkat pg. 278 – The chapter regarding walimah; section 2
[26] Muslim vol. 2 pg. 285 – The chapter concerning the virtues of Sayyidah Aisha radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Sunan li al Nasaʾi vol. 2 pg 78 – The chapter concerning treating women
Musnad Abi Ya’la al Mowsali vol. 4 pg. 471 narration 4934 – The musnadat of Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[27] Bukhari vol. 1 pg. 438 – The narrations concerning the armour, staff and sword of Rasulullah
salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam
Bukhari vol. 1 pg. 528 – The in-laws of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam among whom is Sayyidina Abu al ‘As ibn Rabi’ radiya Llahu ‘anhu
[28] Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 8 pg. 16 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
Al Isabah vol. 4 pg. 398 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[29] Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 2 pg. 46 sect. 2 – The chapter concerning the bequest of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in his final illness
[30] Mishkat pg. 568 – The chapter concerning the virtues of the Ahlul Bayt; section 1
[31] Mishkat pg. 547 – The chapter concerning the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam ; section 1 narrated from Anas radiya Llahu ‘anhu
Al Sunan by Darami pg. 23 – The chapter concerning the demise of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam
[32] Furu’ Kafi vol. 2 pg. 228 – Kitab al Nikah; the chapter concerning the manner the women pledged allegiance to Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam
[33] Kitab Ma’ani al Akhbar pg. 111 sec. 245
[34] Hayat al Qulub vol. 2 pg. 852 sec. 63 – The chapter concerning the bequest of Rasulullah salla Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam
[35] Musnad Ahmed vol. 6 pg. 283 – The musnadat of Fatimah bint Rasulillah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[36] Usd al Ghabah fi ma’rifat al Sahabah vol. 5 pg. 400 – Umamah bint Abi al ‘As ibn Rabi’ radiya Llahu ‘anhuma
[37] Furu’ Kafi vol. 2 pg. 243 – Bab al Ghawadir
[38] Kitab al Amali vol. 1 pg. 107 – Section 4
[39] Kitab Sulaim ibn Qais pg. 224, 225
[40] Al Bidayah wa al Nihayah vol. 6 pg. 334 – The incidents in 11 A.H
Wafaʾ al Wafaʾ vol. 3 pg. 905 – The grave of Fatimah bint Rasulillah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[41] Usd al Ghabah vol. 5 pg. 478 – Salma the wife of Abu Rafi’ radiya Llahu ‘anhuma
Al Bidayah wa al Nihayah vol. 6 pg. 333 – The incidents in 11 A.H
Hilyah al Awliyaʾ vol.2 pg. 43 – Sayyidah Fatimah Zahraʾ radiya Llahu ‘anha
[42] Al Bidayah wa al Nihayah vol. 6 pg. 333 – Regarding who passed away in the year 11 A.H
[43] When something is narrated from only one person
[44] Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 8 pg. 19 sec. 2 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[45] Kanz al ‘Ummal vol. 6 pg. 318 – A letter of the narrators of Malik; The virtues of Siddiq radiya Llahu ‘anhu; The musnadat of ‘Ali radiya Llahu ‘anhu; The virtues of the Sahabah radiya Llahu ‘anhu
[46] Riyad al Nadirah vol. 1 pg. 156 – The demise of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[47] Tabaqat Ibn Sa’d vol. 8 pg. 19 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[48] Al Isabah vol. 4 pg. 398 – Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[49] Nasab Quraysh pg. 24, 25 – The offspring of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha
[50] Nasab Quraysh pg. 25 – The offspring of Sayyidah Fatimah radiya Llahu ‘anha