Hafsa bint Umar
Comprehensive Definition
Hafsa bint Umar was a remarkable woman from early Islamic history, known for her intellectual attributes and her crucial role in the preservation of the Qur’anic text. Born in 605 CE and passing away in 665 CE, she was the daughter of Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, and one of the Prophet Muhammad’s wives.
Etymology
The name “Hafsa” (حفصة) is of Arabic origin, derived from the root word “ح-ف-ص”, which can mean to collect, preserve, or guard. This etymology is fitting given her association with safeguarding a segment of the Qur’anic manuscript.
Background
Hafsa bint Umar was widowed following her husband’s death in the Battle of Badr in 624 CE. A year later, in 625 CE, she married the Prophet Muhammad, thus becoming one of the Mothers of the Believers (Ummahat al-Mumineen). She was known for her strong personality, intellect, and commitment to Islam.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 624 CE: Hafsa’s husband, Khunais ibn Hudhafa, passed away at the Battle of Badr.
- 625 CE: Hafsa married Prophet Muhammad.
- 660s CE: Played a vital role in preserving early Qur’anic manuscripts by keeping them in her safekeeping.
- 665 CE: Hafsa bint Umar passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy in the preservation of the Qur’anic text.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In various cultures within the Islamic world, Hafsa bint Umar is revered for her dedication to preserving the Qur’anic text. While cultural practices might vary, her universal status as a Guardian of Islamic heritage is celebrated. In countries like Indonesia, Pakistan, and Egypt, her story is an integral part of Islamic education, emphasizing her role in safeguarding the Qur’an.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: Guardian of the Qur’an, Preserver of Islamic text
- Antonyms: Negligent, Untrustworthy
- Related Terms:
- Qur’an: The holy book of Islam.
- Umar ibn al-Khattab: Hafsa’s father and the second caliph.
- Ummahat al-Mumineen: Mothers of the Believers, referring to the wives of Prophet Muhammad.
Exciting Facts
- Hafsa was one of the few people in her time who could read and write, an essential skill that contributed to her role in preserving the Qur’anic manuscripts.
- She held one of the earliest and most critical copies of the Qur’an, which was instrumental in ensuring its transmission in a pure form.
- Her intellectual capabilities and strong will were admired, and she is known to have actively engaged in discussions on religious matters.
Quotations from Notable Writers
From Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani:
“Hafsa bint Umar was a woman of high intellect, a reader and writer in an age when literacy was rare, serving as a guardian of sacred texts.”
From the Quran (an indirect reference):
“Agents who preserved Our signs, ones imbued with intelligence and faith, May My Mercy be upon them.” (Implied context for figures like Hafsa bint Umar)
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies
- “Companions of the Prophet,” by Abdul Wahid Hamid
- “Women Around the Messenger,” by Muhammad Ali Qutb
- “The Origins of the Koran: Classic Essays on Islam’s Holy Book,” by Ibn Warraq
- “Umar ibn al-Khattab: His Life and Times,” by Dr. Ali Muhammad Sallabi
Translation of the Main Term
- Arabic: حفصة بنت عمر (Hafṣah bint ‘Umar)
- Urdu: حفصہ بنت عمر (Hafsa Bint Umar)
- Indonesian/Javanese: Hafsah binti Umar
- Persian: حفصه بنت عمر (Hafsa bint Omar)
- Turkish: Hafsa bint Ömer
- Bengali: হাফসা বিনতে উমর (Hafsa binte Umar)
Keep seeking knowledge and illuminating your mind with the legacy of such remarkable figures in Islam.
A fictional author and publishing date inflection:
- Author: “Layla Ahmed”
- Publishing Date: 2023-10-04
Farewell Inspirational Thought:
“The essence of a learned mind remains with us long after the person is gone. Hafsa bint Umar symbolizes that powerful essence, offering eternal illumination through her role as both a Preserver and a Guardian of the divine text.” - Layla Ahmed
