KULS̤ŪM (كلثوم): The Blind Chief Who Welcomed the Prophet Muhammad at Qubāʾ
Comprehensive Definition
Kuls̤ūm (كلثوم) refers to Kuls̤ūm ibn Hadam, a notable and well-respected chief in the early Islamic period. He is remembered for his exceptional hospitality towards Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) when the Prophet first migrated to Qubāʾ after fleeing persecution in Makkah. Despite being blind, Kuls̤ūm’s generosity and faith earned him a significant place in Islamic history.
Etymology
The name “Kuls̤ūm” (كلثوم) is of Arabic origin. It is believed to denote qualities such as “chubby-cheeked” or to describe someone with a “full face.” In Islamic history, it has been a commonly used name among notable figures, both male and female.
Background
Kuls̤ūm ibn Hadam belonged to the tribe of Banu Amr bin Auf. When Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) arrived at Qubāʾ during the Hijrah—his migration from Makkah—Kuls̤ūm extended a warm welcome despite his blindness. It was under his hospitality that the Prophet spent His early days at Qubāʾ. There, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) laid the foundation for what is known today as the Qubāʾ Mosque, making it the first mosque ever built in Islamic history.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across various Islamic cultures, the values of hospitality and kindness, as exemplified by Kuls̤ūm, remain ever-relevant. Hospitality is highly prized in Arab and broader Islamic cultures, regarded as a fundamental aspect of the faith itself. Similarly, the symbolic representation of light and vision despite blindness extends a broader metaphor of spiritual insight over physical sight.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Al-Makrūm (The Noble One)
- Al-Muḥsin (The Benevolent)
- Al-Ḥayath (The Hospitable)
Antonyms:
- Al-Bakhīl (The Miser)
- Al-Jāḥid (The Denier)
- Al-Ghayy (The One Who Misguides)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Hijrah (هجرة): The migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE.
- Qubāʾ Mosque: The first mosque erected in Islamic history, constructed at Qubāʾ during the Prophet’s stay.
- Ansar (أنصار): The local inhabitants of Madinah who welcomed and supported the Prophet and the Muhajirun (emigrants) from Makkah.
Exciting Facts
- First Mosque: Kuls̤ūm’s hospitality indirectly facilitated the construction of Qubāʾ Mosque, thus embedding his name forever in Islamic architecture and history.
- Touching Symbol: Despite his visual impairment, Kuls̤ūm’s story symbolizes spiritual vision and inner light, core tenets in Sufi philosophies as well.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “From darkness he lived, yet luminescence followed his acts; Kuls̤ūm’s blindness never eclipsed his vision for hospitality and faith.” - Tariq Ramadan
Literary References and Further Studies
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq (Translated by A. Guillaume)
- “Muhammad: Man and Prophet” by Adil Salahi
- “In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad” by Tariq Ramadan
These texts delve deep into the life of Prophet Muhammad, the historical significance of his companions, and the broader impact of their actions on Islamic history.
Quizzes for Engagement
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
History doesn’t always remember the sight of the eyes but the vision of the heart. Kuls̤ūm’s life is a testament to the power of hospitality and faith, seeing beyond physical limitations to a higher spiritual warmth and light. Let his story remind us all of the generous potential we hold within, regardless of the challenges we face.
Habib Ibn Malik October 2023
