Day: 14 October 2020

Many of us have probably placed ourselves and even others in difficult conditions and unnecessary expenses only to pass through the regular routines of life. Interestingly enough if we think clearly, many of these hardships we put ourselves through are rootless, and derive only from an unnecessary norm and culture that have found its way into society affecting our lives either willingly or unwillingly.

 

During the era of Prophet Muhammad (saw) there lived a rich man by the name of Abdur Rahman ibn Awf, whom as the custom of the pre-Islamic era believed a large dowry [Dowry, also known as Sidaq refers to a wealth that a husband offers his wife as a gift to show his true intention.] to present a woman’s value and her husband’s superiority in society. Abdur Rahman ibn Awf visited Prophet Muhammad (saw) and said, “If you give Lady Fatimah’s (sa) hand in marriage to me, I will put as her dowry a hundred camels covered with expensive Egyptian cloth followed by a thousand gold Dinars!”

 

Prophet Muhammad (saw) asked, “Do you think I am the servant of wealth and money that you try to impress me with these things?”

 

Other than Abdur Rahman ibn Awf, there were many other men like Abu Bakr, Umar ibn al-Khattab, Uthman from the companions (Sahabah) of Prophet Muhammad (saw) who would ask Lady Fatimah’s (sa) hand in marriage for reasons ranging from her well-known virtues to her relation to Prophet Muhammad (saw) and a noble family. However, all suitors were refused for as Prophet Muhammad (saw) had said, Lady Fatimah’s (sa) marriage had been decreed by Allah (SWT). And with the descent of the angel of revelation, Hazrat Jibril (Gabriel) Prophet Muhammad (saw) had been commanded to marry Lady Fatimah to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as). Prophet Muhammad (saw) has said in this regards, an angel came to me from Allah (SWT) and said, “The Lord sends his greetings unto you and has said, I have wedded your daughter Fatimah in the heavens to Ali ibn Abi Talib; you too therefore wed Fatimah to Ali ibn Abi Talib!”

 

It is mentioned in the narratives that Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: “If Ali didn’t exist, there would be no mate for Fatimah.”

 

This Prophetic attitude, connected to providence, Divine inspiration and will, draws our attention and makes us stop to ponder a little. It raises very critical and significant questions. Why didn’t Prophet Muhammad (saw) leave the matter of Lady Fatimah’s (sa) marriage to herself? Why was the Messenger of Allah (saw) not allowed to give Lady Fatimah (sa) to any of those who sought her hand until Allah (SWT), the All Wise, had ordered him to do so?

 

Why was Lady Fatimah’s (sa) marriage so distinguished by these characteristics? There must by a Divine secret and wisdom related to this marriage, and connected with this critical human relationship between Lady Fatimah (sa), the daughter of the Messenger of Allah (saw), and Ali bin Abi Talib (as), his cousin, “brother and self”, as the Messenger of Allah used to refer to Imam Ali (as).

 

Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as) was raised by Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) from infancy. He lived with the Messenger of Allah (saw) and Lady Khadija tul Kubra (sa). He was brought up in the shade of Divine inspiration and graduated from the prophetic school. While still a boy, he was the first male believer in the mission and message of Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw). It was this unique relationship that Imam Ali (as) describes in these words:

 

“You know that due to my close relationship, and my special rank I enjoyed with the Messenger of Allah (saw), I have a distinguished position with him. He took me in his lap when I was a baby. He often kept me embraced to his heart. He used to make me sleep next to him. We used to be so close to each other that I felt the warmth of his body and smelled the fragrance of his odor. When I was a baby, He fed me from his mouth, chewing hard bits for me. He never found me lying or making a mistake.”

 

Imam Ali (as) continued in the same speech,

 

“I followed Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) step by step as a baby camel follows its mother. He used to place a fresh code of behavior before me daily and used to order me to follow it. Every year he used to stay in the cave of Hira. Nobody used to be with him but me. No single house gathered, at the time of early Islam, but the Messenger of Allah’s (saw), with Lady Khadija tul Kubra (sa) and me, the third of them. I used to see the light of revelation and smell the fragrance of prophethood.”

 

The secret of this training was not vague. Nor was this care merely out of the blood relationship. It is a matter related to the life of the whole Ummah (Community/Nation). The relationship went as far as the branches of prophethood and Imamat went. Thus Allah (SWT), the Eternal, gave the best woman of this Ummah, in marriage to the best of its men. Glory be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds!

 

Imam Ali (as) was the one Prophet Muhammad (saw) praised before Hadrat Fatimah (sa) saying: “I asked my Lord to marry you to the best of his creatures.”

 

And he said to Imam Ali (as): “Aren’t you satisfied that you are holding, in respect to me, the rank of Haroon (Aaron) to Musa (Moses) (as) except that there is no prophet after me?”

 

Similarly, he asked Lady Fatimah (sa): “Aren’t you satisfied that you are the believing women?” So, both of them were the most loved by Prophet Muhammad (saw) and the closest of people to him.

 

Ayesha, the wife of Messenger of Allah (saw) is reported to have been asked: “Who is, from among all people, most loved by Prophet of Allah (saw)?”

 

Marriage of Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (sa)”Hadrat Fatimah,” she said.

 

“And from among the men?” they asked. “Her husband,” she replied, “for I know him to be a fasting and praying one.”

 

With the consummation of the marriage, the household of the relatives of Prophet of Allah (saw) was established. Prophet Muhammad (saw) cared for this household and often spoke about it, stressing that Imam Ali bin Abi Talib, Lady Fatimah and their descendants were his family and that from Imam Ali bin Abi Talib and Lady Fatimah his offspring and children would descend.

 

It was Allah’s (SWT) Will that the offspring of the Messenger of Allah (saw) descend from Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) and Lady Fatimah (sa), and that Imam Hassan (as) and Imam Hussain (as), and the pure progeny be Imams and guides for this Ummah. That is why the marriage of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) and Lady Fatimah (sa) was achieved upon a Divine order.

 

Although it is true this marriage is a divine marriage, however Lady Fatimah’s (sa) character and in general women rights in Islam for choosing their own husbands provided that Prophet Muhammad (saw) not proceed to this act without having his daughter’s word in this matter. When Prophet Muhammad (saw) discussed Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib’s (as) proposal to her, he clearly explained his characteristics. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as), a man whose worldly goods and wealth were to the least, and who did not meet the criteria for marriage that the pre-Islamic era required of him, had however a character that was full of faith and religious virtues. This time, unlike the previous cases Lady Fatimah (sa) agreed. Once Prophet Muhammad (saw) saw Lady Fatimah’s (as) agreement in marriage, he asked Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as) if he has anything to place as his wife’s dowry.

 

Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as) replied, “May my parents be sacrificed for you, you are well aware that my belongings are nothing more than a sword, a shield, and a Camel.”

 

Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), who believed a small dowry to increase a woman’s value as opposed to a large one, replied, “You are correct. You will need your sword for battles with the enemies. And with your Camel you must water the palm trees and travel with it on your trips. Thus you can only give your shield as her dowry.”

 

Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) ordered to sell Imam Ali’s (as) shield. He divided its money into three sections. He gave a part of it to Hazrat Bilal (ra) to purchase a decent perfume, and he spent the other two to purchase some household items and clothes for Lady Fatimah (sa). Obviously with the money from the shield the material that could be bought were very cheap and simple!

 

History has recorded the material that were purchased with the money consisted of these items: a large scarf for four Dirham, material for a dress for seven Dirham, a bed made of wood and leaves from a date palm, four pillows made from sheep skin and filled with leaves from an aromatic plant, a woolen curtain, a small mat, one hand mill, a leathern sac for water, one copper flat wash, a container for milking the Camel, and a pitcher made from clay.

 

Lady Fatimah’s (sa) simple dowry and its usage for purchasing necessities of the home can be the biggest lesson for decreasing our expenses and remaining satisfied with what we are capable of purchasing.

 

A marriage so divine, yet so simple? What are its criteria? Where then can virtues be found? And amidst all these, how should we act? Let us be the judge?

 

Hence during the second year after the migration, marriage of Imam Ali (as) with Lady Fatimah (sa) took place. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) did not send Lady Fatimah (sa) the same day to Imam Ali’s (as) house. Imam Ali (as), on his part, started preparing his house for Lady Fatimah (sa) and furnishing it in a simple and neat way. He covered the floor with soft sand and placed a wooden bar between two walls for hanging their laundry on. He decorated Lady Fatimah’s room with a sheep skin and a pillow, stuffed with palm leaves. He got his house ready and was awaiting Lady Fatimah’s arrival.

 

Twenty-nine days (in another narration more than five months) passed, but Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa) had not moved to her new house yet. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as) was too shy to discuss the matter with the Messenger of Allah (saw). So he asked his brother Aqil to go with him to the house of the Prophet of Allah (saw). On their way, they met Umm Ayman, the maidservant of the Prophet of Allah (saw). They explained to her Imam Ali’s (as) desire. Umm Ayman conveyed Imam Ali’s (as) request to Umm Salamah, the wife of the Messenger of Allah (saw). She also told the rest of Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) wives about the matter. They got together and decided to go, all of them, to the Messenger of Allah (saw).

 

Informed of Imam Ali’s (as) request, Prophet Muhammad (saw) consented. On an occasion like this, a mother has place which cannot be filled by another. Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) was very eager to make compensation to Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa) for the absence of her mother. He (saw) himself took part in the preparations for the nuptials.

 

Prophet Muhammad (saw) ordered his wives to prepare Lady Fatimah (sa) for her husband as any girl should be. They did it with happiness and joy. The Messenger of Allah (saw) called for a festival. Imam Ali (as) prepared a befitting feast. Both Muhajirs (immigrants) and Ansars (helpers), shared in the blessed occasion with their Prophet Muhammad (saw).

 

And thus the married life of Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (sa) and Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as) began. The establishment of the new house was completed, and its firm pillars were fixed by the Messenger of Allah (saw). By them he had secured the basis of the new legislation, life and philosophy of marriage and family. It was an example set for the coming generations to follow.

 

The Messenger of Allah (saw), throughout his lifetime personified the principles of his message, and the values of his Shariah (Islamic Law), which specify the position of woman and her worth and rights in life through the person of Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (sa). The father loved his little girl and filled her with tenderness and affection. He (saw) took the responsibility of the marriage, the purchase of her needs, her nuptials and the festival. What kind of extraordinary care Prophet of Islam (saw) displayed towards women? How high is the position of the family, woman and marriage in his noble, eternal Shariah (Islamic Law)?

 

These are the lessons, pioneering social ideals, and the Islamic system for the behavior of the Muslim family which would produce the high principled generations.

 

Wedding of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as)They are the practical applications of the social and family ties, and the sound relationships and conduct ordered by Allah (SWT), and personified by His noble Messenger (saw).

 

Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (sa) and Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (as), had 4 children: Imam Hassan, Imam Hussain, Hazrat Zainab and Hazrat Umm Kulthum (pbut). Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (pbut), who are trained by such mother, are of the 12 Imams and the other 9 Imams [except Imam Ali and Imam Hassan (pbut)] are of Imam Hussain’s (pbuh) progeny and are related to Prophet Muhammad (saw) by Lady Fatimah (sa). This is the reason we call her Umm al-A’immah (Mother of Imams).

 

Hadrat Fatimah (sa) was pregnant one other time, after the death of her dear father, Prophet Muhammad (saw). This child, however, never was given the chance to live. Mohsin, the stillborn son of Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra (sa) was aborted when the door of her house was pushed down upon her by those opposing her husband regarding successor ship after the death of the Messenger of Allah (saw).

 

So all of Lady Fatimah’s living children were four. She herself didn’t live long. She passed away while still in the prime of her life. She joined her father, the Messenger of Allah (saw) in the other world. She left behind her little children, the oldest was hardly seven years old.

Follower of Bibi Fatimah (sa) example It was a normal week day and her husband was at work. After finishing her duties at home, Umm Salamah was busy as usual helping her neighbors, today washing their clothes. Her friends were surprised at her selfless kindness but she always told her friends: “A kindness a day keeps the devil away. I try to do one act of kindness everyday in hopes that it will eradicate a sin I may have unconsciously committed in the Book of Life.”

 

One Sunday Umm Salamah’s husband said, “May I ride with you today when you go to do the grocery shopping?”

 

Umm Salamah was obviously surprised, but she didn’t question his request and said, “Sure why not, then we can spend some time together as you are always busy.”

 

So Umm Salamah and her husband left and spent the whole day together. When they got home and put away the groceries, Umm Salamah thanked her husband for being so kind as to come with her.

 

He answered, “Umm Salamah, the real reason that I went with you is because you always tell people to do just one act of kindness, like eating an Apple a day, keeps the Doctor away, so I asked to ride with you to see just how kindly you act with people every day.”

 

Umm Salamah asked with astonishment: “Why?” He replied, “Because I wanted to see how do you practice kindness, and I wanted to see if you practiced what you preach. And trust me; I will never doubt anything you say again.”

 

He continued and said to his wife, Umm Salamah:

 

(1) “When we got in the Van, you let the car across from us go first while watching that no car was coming from behind and you signaled him to go.

 

(2) “When we reached the stop, you signaled for people to cross the street saying that this way you protect them at least when you are at the stop sign because most drivers don’t care about people, they just want to be on their way.

 

(3) “On the freeway you signaled the trailer trucks when you were letting them take the lane and slowed down to give them space to change lanes, saying that they had a delivery to make on time and that you had all the time in the world.

 

(4) “When we arrived in the store parking lot as you went to take a spot, someone else just swiped in front of you and we had to go all the way to the back. You never got angry. You said, “Well, maybe he has sore legs and needs to be closer,” and you laughed.

 

(5) “As we arrived at the entrance door, you opened the door and let an elderly couple in saying, “Beauty before age.”

 

“Well when I counted up 25 acts of kindness I stopped counting because your one act of kindness just rolls into many more. I couldn’t believe it; you are so kind that I am sure that in the Book of Life it will outweigh whatever you do wrong. From now on I will also do one act of kindness a day, and I will never doubt anything you say you do ever again.”

 

Umm Salamah laughed and said, “Kindness is like a box of chocolates, when I open the box, I can never eat just one. I finish the box! And this is true, that is why I don’t buy a whole box; it doesn’t last the day. But I am so used to being kind that I don’t even notice I am doing it. I just loves my fellow human beings. It is just following Bibi Fatimah (sa) who said: “(Help) the neighbor first, before your own self.”

 

Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (saw)Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah), Umm Salamah was indeed a true follower of Bibi Fatimah (sa) who was so kind that:

 

(1) Bibi Fatima Zahra (sa) gave her new marriage dress to a poor person and wore her old dress instead, in the wedding. The next day when Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (saw) asked why she was wearing an old dress, she replied that she gave the new dress to a poor person. Can we get such example of kindness anywhere?

 

Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (saw) asked: “Why didn’t you give your old dress instead?”

 

Bibi Fatimah (sa) replied: Because the Noble Qur’an says: “You will not achieve piety until you give out what you love the most.” (Noble Qur’an, 3:92)

 

(2) Bibi Fatimah (sa) and her whole family remained hungry for three days but offered the evening meals after three long days’ fasting to the beggar, the orphan and the prisoner.

 

Noble Qur’an, praising this kind act, says: “And they feed, for the love of Allah, the indigent, the orphan, and the captive.” (Noble Qur’an, 76:8)

 

(3) Bibi Fatimah (sa) was so kind to her servant Bibi Fizza (ra), that Bibi Fizza (ra) worked one day and the other day Bibi Fatimah (sa) would work so that Bibi Fizza (ra) could rest. Such example of kindness can only be found in the family of Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (saw), Ahlul Bayt of Naboowah.

 

Alas, such a kind and benevolent lady was so much terrorized after the death of her father, Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (saw), that she had to say addressing her father, standing before his grave: “Oh! Father dear! After you, fell on me such miseries that had they fallen on bright days, the bright days would have turned into darkest nights.”

Bibi Fatimah (sa) was Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) most loving daughter. Bibi Fatima Zahra (sa) used to help out Prophet Muhammad (saw) in most of her daily affairs. She had this feeling that she should be the first woman to enter the paradise. However, she had a grain of doubt. Unless Prophet Muhammad (saw) himself assured her, she would not believe it. She was eagerly waiting for an opportunity to know the reality from her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw).

One day finally when they were chatting together and both were in high spirits; she could not resist her eagerness anymore and enquired from her father as to who would be the first lady to enter the heavens. Prophet Muhammad (saw) was perplexed and was in two minds whether to disclose the truth. Finally he revealed the fact that one woman; wife of a woodcutter and living close by would be the one to enter the paradise first. Bibi Fatimah (sa) was shocked and was almost in tears. But Prophet Muhammad (saw) consoled and sympathized with her and asked her to visit the woman at the earliest.

The very next day Bibi Fatimah (sa) visited her, not only to chat with her but also to assess her and to find out as to in what ways she (woodcutter’s wife) was superior to herself. She knocked on the door. Hearing a female voice, the woodcutter’s wife, without opening the door, enquired as to who she was? Bibi Fatimah (sa) replied that she was so and so and the daughter of Prophet Muhammad (saw). Immediately the woodcutter’s wife replied, I am sorry I cannot admit you since I have not taken permission from my husband. I would suggest you to come tomorrow, by that time I would take permission from my husband.

The next day almost the same time, Bibi Fatimah (sa) intentionally carried her kid Imam Hassan (as) with her and knocked at the door. When asked as to who she was, Bibi Fatimah (sa) replied that she was so and so and she was accompanied with her kid Imam Hassan (as). Promptly came the reply that I am sorry my husband had permitted to let in only yourself and how can I admit two of you, so it is better you come tomorrow.

The next day Bibi Fatimah (sa) accompanied by two of her kids Imam Hassan (as) and Imam Hussain (as), visited the woodcutter’s wife and knocked at the door and requested the women to open the door and that she is accompanied by two of her kids. The woodcutter’s wife was jubilant and opened the door instantly saying that her husband has permitted her to open the door to anyone and any member from Prophet’s family and it is a great honour for her. They sat together and chatted for sometime and during that process Bibi Fatimah (sa) was able to glean the various humane and Islamic qualities in the woman. Bibi Fatima Zahra (sa) was very much satisfied with all that she noticed and returned home to report the matter to her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw).

Prophet Muhammad (saw) said to Bibi Fatimah (sa) that when you enter the heavens through the main gate riding on a horse, you will find that woodcutter’s wife is holding the reins of the horse in front of you. That means the woodcutter’s wife will be the first woman to enter the heaven.

Bibi Fizza (ra) the maidservant of Bibi Fatimah (sa)Bibi Fizza (ra) had come from Abyssinia to Arabia as a slave. She was freed by Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and afterwards served Bibi Fatimah (sa) as her maidservant. Bibi Fizza (ra) was only 11 years of age when she came to serve Bibi Fatimah (sa). It is believed that she knew how to make Gold and she also knew Noble Qur’an by heart. Bibi Fatimah (sa) divided her house work equally between herself and Bibi Fizza (ra) and they would take turns to do the chores. She remained faithful to the household of Ahlul Bayt (as) and even accompanied them to Karbala and the prison of Sham. She also had the honour of taking part in the “Three Days Fast”. Once, when Imam Hassan (as) and Imam Hussain (as) fell sick, Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) suggested that Imam Ali (as) make a vow (Nazr) to fast for three days when the children recovered. When they were better, Imam Ali (as), Bibi Fatimah (sa), Imam Hassan (as), Imam Hussain (as) and Bibi Fizza (ra) all fasted to fulfill the vow.

 

However, on each of the three days, when they sat to break their fast, a hungry person called at their door. The first said he was poor, the second said he was an orphan and the third said he was a freed captive. Each time, the big-hearted members of the house, including Bibi Fizza (ra), gave away their food and broke their fast with water. In praise of this selfless action Allah (SWT) revealed the 76th Chapter Ad Dahr (Surah al-Insan) of the Noble Qur’an.

 

Abdullah Mubarak has related a very interesting dialogue between himself and Bibi Fizza (ra). He states, I saw a woman passing through the desert who had fallen behind the caravan and asked her, “Who are you and where are you from?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) replied: [And say, “Salaam” for they shall soon know! Noble Qur’an, 43:89]

 

I learned that she expected me to greet her and say “Assalaamu Alaykum” first, before any question. I did as she reminded, and then enquired why she was in the desert.

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) answered: [And whomsoever Allah guides, there can be none to lead astray! Noble Qur’an, 39:37]

 

On hearing her reply, I asked her, “Are you from mankind or from the Jinn?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) replied: [O Children of Adam! Look to your adornment at every place of worship. Noble Qur’an, 7:31]

 

I understood that she was human and then asked her, “Where are you coming from?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) replied: [Those who are called to from a place far off. Noble Qur’an, 41:44]

 

I asked her, “Where are you intending to go?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) said: [And (purely) for Allah, is incumbent upon mankind, the Pilgrimage of the House. Noble Qur’an, 3:97]

 

I asked her how many days she had been traveling.

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) told me: [We created the heavens and the earth and all between them in Six Days. Noble Qur’an, 50:38]

 

I asked her, “Do you feel hungry?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) replied: [We (Allah) did not make them such bodies that ate no food. Noble Qur’an, 21:8]

 

I gave her food and asked her to hurry up to catch the caravan but she replied:

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) the maidservant of Bibi Fatima Zahra (sa)[Allah does not task any soul beyond its ability. Noble Qur’an, 2:286]

 

I suggested that she sit on the camel behind me, but she said:

 

[Had there been gods therein besides Allah, there would have been disorder in both (the heavens and the earth). Noble Qur’an, 21:22]

 

I realized that, because we were not husband and wife, it was Haram (forbidden) for both of us to ride the camel. So I got off and mounted her on it. As she sat on the camel, she said:

 

[Glory to Him Who has subjected these to our (use). Noble Qur’an, 43:13]

 

When we reached the caravan, I asked her, “Do you know anyone among them?”

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) called out in reply: [O Dawood, Verily, We have appointed you a vicegerent in the earth. Noble Qur’an, 38:26]

 

[And Muhammad is not but a Messenger. Noble Qur’an, 3:144]

 

[O Yahya! Hold the book with firmness! Noble Qur’an, 19:12]

 

[O Musa! Verily I am Allah, the All-Mighty. Noble Qur’an, 27:9]

 

I began to call out these four names at which four youths came out of the caravan and ran towards Bibi Fizza (ra). I asked her who they were and she replied:

 

[Wealth and children are the adornment of the world. Noble Qur’an, 18:46]

 

I realized that they were her sons. The woman turned to the youth and said:

 

[O my Father, employ him, verily the best of those who you can employ is the strong man and the trusted one. Noble Qur’an, 28:26]

 

Bibi Fizza (ra) thus made them understand that I had helped her. Then she told them:

 

[And verily God increases manifold to whosoever He wills. Noble Qur’an, 2:261]

 

The sons understood their mother’s hint and paid me well. I asked them who this noble lady was, and they replied, “She is our mother, Fizza, the maidservant of Bibi Fatimah (sa). She has conversed in nothing but Noble Qur’an for the last 20 years.”

As he neared the city in the burning heat of the midday sun, he shaded his eyes with his hands and cast a look at the green date palms of Medina behind which were a row of modest houses. He breathed a heavy sigh as a waft of air blew from the direction of Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) city. The fresh air brought a familiar scent. It was the fragrance of the Almighty’s Last Messenger to mankind, Prophet Muhammad (blessing of Allah be upon him and his progeny). Although Prophet Muhammad (saw) was no longer physically present, having passed away a couple of months ago, the fragrance was obviously from Masjid an-Nabi or Prophet’s Mosque, where for years he had recited the Azan (Adhan, Athan) or ‘the call to the faithful to assemble for the daily prayers’. On entering the city he stood silently for a while, dusting off his clothes and casting a look at the people around. The people of Medina were engaged in the hustle and bustle of daily life and it seemed none had noticed his entry. He slowly made his way to the quarters of the city where stood the houses of Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) clan, the Bani Hashem. He entered the narrow lane where he used to stand every day to greet Prophet Muhammad (saw) before going to the mosque. He advanced toward the house, at whose door it was the habit of Prophet Muhammad (saw) to salute every morning. It was the house of Prophet’s daughter Hazrat Fatema and her husband Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (peace be upon them). He was eager to meet Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) family, although he had decided after the passing away of Prophet Muhammad (saw) not to return to the city that had turned its back on the blessed Household of Prophet Muhammad (saw). He approached the closed door and said in a gentle tone: “Greetings to the Ahlul Bayt, the blessed household of Prophet of Allah (SWT).”

 

His voice was familiar to the People of the House. The door suddenly opened as Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) two young grandsons, Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (peace be upon them) rushed out. There was joy on their faces as they said in an enthusiastic tone: “It is Belaal! It is Belaal! He has come back.”

 

Hazrat Belaal, the black Abyssinian, who had the honor of serving Prophet Muhammad (saw) as the official Muezzin or Caller to Prayer, embraced the boys and broke into tears at their affection for him. Their sight brought to him memories of the past as he could feel the fragrance of Prophet Muhammad (saw) from his grandsons. A moment passed and Hazrat Belaal enquired about the lady of the house, Prophet Muhammad’s daughter who had been deprived of her inheritance. The two boys held the hands of Hazrat Belaal and ushered him into the courtyard of their small house. Everything appeared like in the past in the modest home of Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as). Inside the house in a small room, Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) grief stricken daughter, Hazrat Fatema (sa) lay bedridden. She heard the familiar voice of her father’s Muezzin as he saluted her respectfully from the courtyard. From inside she answered: “Greetings to you O’ the Muezzin of my father, Prophet of Allah (SWT).”

 

The voice was weak. Hazrat Belaal felt concerned and asked whether the noble lady was ill. There was no reply. After a few moments of silence, the voice from inside the room told Hazrat Belaal to go to Prophet Muhammad’s Mosque and recites the Azan (Adhan, Athan) as he used to do in Prophet Muhammad’s lifetime. Hazrat Fatemeh (sa) said: “O Belaal, before I depart from the mortal world, I want you to recite the Azan (Adhan, Athan) so that I can reminisce the good old days of Prophet Muhammad (blessings of Allah be upon him and his progeny).”

 

Hazrat Fatemeh (sa)Hazrat Belaal was struck with deep sorrow. He knew before he left Medina two months ago that Hazrat Fatema (sa) had been denied her inheritance by the new rulers who had also usurped the political rights of her husband Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as), Prophet Muhammad’s divinely designated successor. But he was not aware that matters had reached such a state that she was about to leave the world. He obeyed and hastened toward Prophet Muhammad’s Mosque. Hazrat Belaal climbed to the roof of Prophet Muhammad’s Mosque and cast a look around the city of Medina, which now appeared to be different from what it was during the days of Prophet Muhammad (saw). His gentle voice pierced the atmosphere as he recited Allaho Akbar or “God is the Greatest.” The people stopped work when they heard his familiar voice. Has Belaal returned, were the queries. He then recited: Ashhado An La Ilaha IllAllah, which means “I bear witness there is no deity except Allah (SWT).” People rushed enthusiastically toward Prophet Muhammad’s Mosque. Hazrat Belaal continued the Azan (Adhan, Athan) and recited the next phrase: Ashhado Anna Muhammadan Rasoul Allah, which means “I bear witness that Muhammad is Prophet of Allah (SWT).”

 

Tears rolled from the eyes of the people. As Hazrat Belaal was about to recite the next phrase of the Azan (Adhan, Athan), he saw Prophet Muhammad’s two young grandsons rushing towards him. Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (peace be upon them), said with one voice: “O Belaal, do not recite the Azan (Adhan, Athan) anymore. Our mother recalling the days of Prophet Muhammad (saw) has fallen unconscious on the prayer mate.”

 

Hazrat Belaal came down and with tears in his eyes embraced the two young boys.

 

Before her passing away, Hazrat Fatema (sa) asked for water. She took ablution, put on neat clothes, faced the Qibla or the direction of the prayer and supplicated: “O Allah make death appear like a dear one coming from journey whose return I have been longing for. O Allah, shower Your mercy and blessings upon me, place my soul among the ranks of the souls of pure, my life among the life of the virtuous, my body among the bodies of the ritually clean, and accept my deeds.”

 

Hazrat Fatemeh (sa) was a mine of knowledge and wisdom. Her famous sermon on the seizure of her inheritance and the usurpation of her husband’s rights by the new rulers of Medina is testimony to her eloquence and knowledge. This sermon that is preserved in its original Arabic to this day and has been translated into the major languages of the world, presents the gist of the Islamic tenets of monotheism, divine justice, prophet hood, Imamate and the Final Judgment. It is also an excellent explanation of the timeless concepts of the Noble Qur’an and how peaceful and virtuous people should behave in life for the progress of mankind and for salvation in the Hereafter. She says that her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw) who was sent by the Almighty as the final Prophet, enlightened the human race and delivered mankind from the worship of idols and set them on the path towards paradise.

 

Hazrat Fatima (pbuh)Hazrat Fatemeh (sa) had been promised that she would be the first one from among the family to join her father in afterlife. When she heard these words from her father on his deathbed, her tears gave way to a smile. Now, ninety-five days later she was all prepared to depart for the heavenly abode to join her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw). Hazrat Fatema (sa) was happy for the final journey but sad at the circumstances leading to her departure. She was in the prime of her youth and suffered untold calamities in this short period after her father had passed away. Prophet Muhammad (saw) used to show the utmost respect to her, but after him she found that her inheritance was seized by the new rulers on the pretext that whatever Prophets leave is charity and not inheritance. Hazrat Fatima (pbuh) defended her rights, not for some paltry materialistic things, but to show to all humanity that Islam guarantees the rights of women. In support of her rights she cited verses from the Noble Qur’an, where Almighty Allah (SWT) says Prophet Solomon inherited David. The people had no answers to her logic but worldly greed prevented them from restoring her rights. However, the greatest blow she suffered was the usurpation of the rights of her husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as), the divinely designated successor of Prophet Muhammad (saw). In a memorable sermon, rich in Arabic metaphors, Hazrat Fatima (pbuh) tried to show the new rulers the folly of their action in deviating from the principle of Wilayah or Islamic Leadership, but to no avail.

 

Hearts had hardened and the sequence of sufferings was so fast that she was not even allowed to weep for her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw) in her home, because it seemed, her wailing was disturbing the sweet dreams of the new rulers. Hazrat Fatemeh (sa) had to go outside Medina to remember her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw) at a small room built by her beloved husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) to protect her from the torrid heat of the Arabian sun. It was called “Bayt al-Hozn / Bayt al-Huzn” or “House of Grief”. The magnitudes of her sufferings were so much that she would recite at the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (saw): “O Father after you such great calamities have fallen upon me, that the sorrow is enough to turn bright days into dark nights.”

 

This was the elegy of Hazrat Fatima (sa), in whose honor Prophet Muhammad (saw) used to stand to his feet whenever the beloved daughter entered his presence. He would salute at her doorstep in the mornings, but alas, this very threshold had been desecrated by a mob of miscreants who came with fire and iron bars, threatening to burn the house if her husband does not come out and swear allegiance to the new rulers. Hazrat Fatema (sa) refused to surrender Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) and told them her four little children were also in the house. The thugs refused to hear the words of the daughter of their Prophet Muhammad (saw) and beat down the door, which tragically fell upon her and pinned her to the wall. As a result she suffered a miscarriage. But despite this pain, she defended her husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) when the rogues tried to drag him out of the house.

 

Hazrat Fatema (sa) now lay on her deathbed, prepared to leave behind the world and its tribulations. She had spent 95 awful days after her father, Prophet Muhammad (saw) and was now looking forward to join him in heaven. Those who had oppressed her sought permission to see her in the last moments of her life. But she refused, since she was aware of their hypocritical nature. She told her dear husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) to tell them that she was displeased with this group. She reminded them of her father, Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) famous Hadith, which says:

 

Prophet Muhammad (saw)”Fatema is a part of me, whoever displeases her has displeased me and whoever displeases me has displeased Allah (SWT).”

 

People acknowledged her words. Finally the moment came, when her soul flew to the ethereal heavens leaving behind a grief-stricken husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) and four young children. What a sad moment was this day for her sons Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain and daughters Hazrat Zainab and Hazrat Omme Kolsoum (peace be upon them). As per her will, Hazrat Fatemeh (sa) was laid to eternal peace in an unmarked grave in the dead of night, with only her immediate family and few close confidantes attending the funeral. What a great tragedy it was!

 

Here we present to you part of the statement of her grief-stricken husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (as) while laying her to eternal rest. The words are preserved in the valuable book Nahjul Balagha or Peak of Eloquence, read:

 

“O Prophet of Allah, peace be upon you from me and from your daughter who has come to you and who has hastened to meet you. O Prophet of Allah, my patience has been exhausted, and my power of endurance has weakened, except that I have ground for consolation in having endured the great hardship and heart-rending event of your separation. I laid you down in your grave when your last breath had passed while your head was resting between my neck and chest. Surely, we are from Allah and unto Him shall we return.

 

Now the trust – i.e. your daughter – is being returned and what was given is being taken back. As to my grief, it knows no bounds, and as to my nights, they will remain sleepless till Allah chooses for me the house in which you are now residing.

Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) whole life was shaped by thoughts of the hereafter. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) loved his children, but not in any worldly way. Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) used to run her house without much help; Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) could see how hard his daughter worked at home.

 

Imam Ali ibn Talib (as), Fatimah Zahra’s husband, once told Ibn Wahid a story about Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) most beloved daughter. Imam Ali ibn Talib (as) said, Fatimah Zahra’s (pbuh) hands were blistered from constant grinding; her neck had become sore from carrying water; her clothes would become dirty from sweeping the floor. When Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had received an influx of servants from some place, Imam Ali ibn Talib (as) suggested to his wife that she approach her father and ask for a servant. Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) went, but could not speak to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) because of the people who were surrounding him. Next day, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) came to their house, and asked Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) as to why she wanted to see him. Imam Ali ibn Talib (as) told the whole story to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), and said that Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) went to him on his advice. “Fear Allah (SWT), Fatimah,” Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “Fulfill your obligations to the Lord, and continue with your housework.”

 

Then, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said he would give her something that would be better than a helper or anything else she wished in this world, this is when Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) gives Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) the gift of this Tasbih/Tasbeeh and its is known as Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh). And said when you go to bed at night, read the following:

 

34 times – Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)

33 times – Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah)

33 times – Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah)

 

Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh)This would be much better than having a servant.

 

“If that is the will of Allah (SWT) and His Prophet Muhammad (pbuh),” Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) replied “then so be it.” This was Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) only reply. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) did not provide her a servant.

 

This Tasbih/Tasbeeh is recommended to be read after every Namaz/Salah. The Salah is like a beautiful flower and the Tasbih of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) gives that beautiful flower a beautiful fragrance. So after every Salah we should say the Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) because we want our Salah to be like a beautiful flower with a beautiful fragrance.

 

Imam Baqir (as) says whoever performs the Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and asks Allah (SWT) for forgiveness, Allah (SWT) will forgive him or her a hundred times, will add a thousand good deeds to their scale, repel Shaitan/Satan and be pleased with him or her.

 

Imam Jafar Sadiq (as) says whoever does Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) before they move their legs or unfold their legs from the position of sitting in Wajib Salah, Allah (SWT) forgives them and makes Jannah Wajib upon them. Imam Jafar Sadiq (as) also says that Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) after every Wajib Salah is more loved then praying a thousand Rakats everyday. Imam Jafar Sadiq (as) continues to say whoever does the Tasbih/Tasbeeh of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) after every Salah and ends it by saying La illaha illalah, Allah (SWT) will forgive his or her sins.

 

Tasbih of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh)When Hazrat Hamzah (ra) was martyred in the Battle of Uhud, Hazrat Fatima Zahra (pbuh) took some earth (Turba) from his grave and moulded it into beads and she used that as her Tasbih/Tasbeeh. Before this event Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) would use a blue woollen string that was knotted and that was the customary Tasbih/Tasbeeh before the martyrdom of Hazrat Hamzah (ra). After that it became customary to make beads from clay.

 

Hazrat Hamzah (ra) was knows as Sayyid al-Shuhada the “Chief of Martyrs.” Today we call our 3rd Imam, Imam Hussain (as) Sayyid al-Shuhada and we try to use the earth from Karbala (Khak-E-Shifa) from near his grave to use in our Tasbih/Tasbeeh so that we remember the sacrifice and we remember what Tawheed (Oneness of God) is all about.

Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and Proper prayer before sleepHazrat Fatima Zahra (pbuh) is known to have recounted this interesting true story: One day, as I was preparing myself to sleep, suddenly I saw my father, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) entering our room. He (pbuh) said: “My beloved daughter, Fatimah Zahra! Never sleep at night, unless you have accomplished four things!”

 

First, you have to read entire Noble Qur’an from the beginning to end.

 

Second, you have to ask for the great Prophets of Allah to intercede in your favour after your death.

 

Third, you should remember that, you have to make all the faithful believers happy and pleased with you.

 

And finally, you have to go to Makkah, and accomplish the Pilgrimage of Hajj [Hajj Tamattu and Umrah Tamattu].

 

Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) said: “After having said that, my father, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) began to perform his prayer and I had to wait until he finished his prayer to ask more information from him.”

 

I said most confused: “O Messenger of Allah! You have ordered me to do four things before sleep. But beloved father, I cannot see myself executing such things! I am unable to accomplish them at this late hour!”

 

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) smiled graciously and answered: “If you say three times the Surah Ikhlas, it is as though you have read the entire Noble Qur’an from the beginning to end. If you say greetings and salutations to me and to the other great Prophets, you make us intercede in your favour. If you pray for the faithful believers, you have made them happy and content. And at last, if you say (dhikr) “Subhanallahe, Walhamdulillahe, Wala Ilaaha Illallahe, Wallahu Akbar” it is as though you have accomplished the Pilgrimage of Hajj [Hajj Tamattu and Umrah Tamattu].”

Hazrat Fatima Zahra (pbuh) and Hazrat Maryam mother of Isa (pbuh)Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari has narrated:

 

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had not eaten anything for several days. Hunger was making him suffer. He went to the houses of his wives, but found nothing there to eat. He then went to the house of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and told her, “O my daughter! Do you have anything for me to eat as I am very hungry?”

 

Hazrat Fatima Zahra (pbuh) replied, “No my dear father.”

 

As soon as Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) left her house, one of the neighbors brought Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) some bread and meat. She accepted the offer, put it in a dish, and covered it. Although Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and her family were in much need for food she said, “I consider the Messenger of Allah as being prior to me and my family in this meal.”

 

Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) then sent Imam Hassan (pbuh) and Imam Hussain (pbuh) after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). When Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) returned, Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) said, “Allah (SWT) has sent us some food that I have put aside for you.” Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) asked her to bring the food. Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) brought the dish. When she uncovered it, she found it full of bread and meat. Being surprised, she realized that it was Allah’s (SWT) blessing. She thanked Allah (SWT) and praised His Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). When Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) saw the dish, he said, “From where have you gotten this food?” She said: It is from Allah. Surely Allah gives sustenance to whom He pleases without measure. (Noble Qur’an, 3:37) Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) praised Allah (SWT) and said, “Grace be to Allah who has made you similar to the best woman (Maryam) of the world during the time of the tribe of Israelites. When was asked about who sent her the food, she (Maryam (pbuh) would reply, “Allah gives sustenance to anyone he wants without counting.”

 

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) then sent someone after Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh). Then Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali, Fatimah Zahra, Imam Hassan, Imam Hussain (pbut) and all the wives and family of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) ate from that food, but still the dish remained full. Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) said, “I gave some of that food to all the neighbors. Allah (SWT) has blessed that food, just like the one of Maryam’s (pbuh).

History has witnessed many amazing worships from devoted and faithful people to Allah (SWT). However, the worship of a great young lady Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) has added significant beauty to the rest of worships and it has become an honor for the rest of worshippers. Her worships are described in the following manner:

 

There is no worshipper like Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) in this world; her foot had swelled because of standing for prayers. Indeed, what has been narrated about Fatimah Zahra’s (pbuh) worship and prayer is far beyond what we have seen or heard of other worshipers.

 

It is impossible for anyone to describe the quality and quantity of her worships in words except for Allah (SWT) and His especial selected servants. In order to recognize the greatness of Fatimah Zahra’s (pbuh) prayer it is enough to note that the Creator of the universe praises and regards the worships of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and her husband, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh).

 

After Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) migration (Hijrah/Hijrat) from Makkah to Medina, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) accompanied Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) and a number of other women and some weak people to migrate to Medina in a small caravan according to what Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had ordered him. The infidels of Makkah who had failed to capture Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in his migration decided to take family as captives as an alternative to catch him. Nonetheless, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb’s (pbuh) bravery kept their goal as illusive as it was. The caravan reached Medina safe and sound after a number of battles during the path from Makkah.

 

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) rushed to see Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) and Hazrat Fatima Zahra (pbuh) with indescribable happiness. He hugged Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) and said: “Before you arrive, the angel Jibril (Gabriel) descent on me and told me all about your journey; he told me all about your prayers on the way; your late night and continuous worships; your thought and ponderings and your battles on the way until here. Jibril (Gabriel) brought these verses from the Almight Allah (SWT):

 

“Those who remember Allah standing, sitting and lying on their sides and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth (saying): Our Lord! You have not created this without purpose, Glory be to You! Give us salvation from the chastisement of the fire.” (Noble Qur’an, 3:191)

 

The spiritual scent of these verses made Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) and Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) forget about the long and exhausting trip they had. For Allah (SWT) had accepted their continuous prayers, worships, remembrance and ponderings.

 

The quality of her devotion to Allah (SWT) was incomparable; as Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) worshiped Allah (SWT) in every moment of her life and worship was rooted in her daily life. Her deeds, words, glances, efforts, breaths and all of her day and night were worships. Every night, Fatimah Zahra’s (pbuh) home was her prayer rug; after putting the children to bed and finishing the housework, she stood for praying so long so that her feet were sore and swollen.

 

The first night of her marriage is narrated as follows:

 

Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) found his wife in tears, he then sought the cause of it, Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) responded, “I thought of my state in the end of this life and in purgatory, since the transition from my father Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) to my own house reminded me of my transition to the grave. By the grace of Allah (SWT), let’s rise for prayer in the first hours of our married life and spend the night in worshiping the Lord.”

 

Indeed, in the sweetest and most memorable moment of her life, the very example of human excellence and the gems of women in heavens and on earth, Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) remembers the reason of her creation and asks her husband to accompany her in spending the night seeking closeness to Allah (SWT). And the day after, when Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), asks the commander of faithful, Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh), “How did you find your spouse?” Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) does not waste a split second and answers immediately “the best companion and aide in obeying and worshiping Allah (SWT).” This is how the personality of Fatimah Zahra (pbuh) is presented in the view of Imam Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh), at the first night of their marriage.

Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa): Neighbors FirstThe child had made it a habit to rise regularly in the small hours of the night and join his mother, Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa) in her nightly prayers called Tahajjud. He observed that his mother prayed for all Muslim men and all Muslim women. She remembered them by name and prayer for their prosperity and well being.

 

O Allah (SWT), pardon them their sins and let Your grace embrace them in all their dealings.

 

On this particular morning, the child decided to ask. When the prayers were over, he asked: Mother, you pray for all every day. Not a word for yourself or any one in the family?

 

Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa), blessings and salutations to her, said: ‘O my son Hassan, remember one thing. Neighbors first and then the house.’

 

In the end, we would like to recite a supplication that Lady Fatimah Zahra (sa) used to call Allah (SWT) with.

 

O Allah (SWT), make me content with what you have given me. and keep me in good health as long as you keep me alive.

 

Forgive me and have mercy on me when I die. O Allah (SWT) don’t make me exhaust myself in seeking what you did not mean to me, and let what you have destined to me easy to get. O Allah (SWT), reward my parents and everyone who did well to me. O Allah (SWT) dedicate me to what you have created me for to worship you, and follow your commands. O Allah (SWT) make me look humbly at myself and make me feel how great you are…

 

O Allah (SWT) guide me to obey you and to do what pleases you and avoid what angers you .You are the Most Merciful.