✨ Sumayah bint Khubbat: The First Martyr in Islam

October 5, 2023 5 min read Fatima Al-Mahmoud Religion Islamic Studies History Islam Martyrdom Sumayah Bint Khubbat Early Islam Sahabah

Explore the inspiring story of Sumayah bint Khubbat, the first martyr in Islam. Learn about her unwavering faith, her tragic martyrdom, and her enduring legacy in Islamic history.

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Sumayah bint Khubbat: The First Martyr in Islam

Sumayah bint Khubbat: Known as Sumayah Umm Ammar, Sumayah bint Khubbat is esteemed as the first martyr in Islam. Born in the early 6th century, she was among the first believers to embrace Islam in Mecca, enduring severe persecution for her unwavering faith.

Definition and Meaning

Sumayah bint Khubbat represents steadfast faith and resilience. Despite immense suffering, she remained devoted to the Islamic message brought by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), ultimately sacrificing her life.

Etymology and Background

The name Sumayah (سمية) means “high” or “elevated” in Arabic, while “bint Khubbat” signifies “daughter of Khubbat”. As a figure, Sumayah bint Khubbat exemplifies the height of devotion and sacrifice in early Islamic history.

Historical Facts and Dates

Year of Martyrdom: 615 CE, during the pre-Hijra period in Mecca.
Notable Incident: Tortured and killed by Abu Jahl, a notorious opponent of Islam.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

Sumayah’s story is revered across various Islamic cultures. Her tale is particularly significant in highlighting the role of women in the early Islamic community, who were neither passive nor mere bystanders but active participants in the propagation and defense of their faith.

Synonyms:

Martyr
Shaheedah (شهيدة)

Antonyms:

Apostate
Rejector

Related Terms:

Yasir ibn Amir: Her husband, also tortured and martyred for his faith.
Ammar ibn Yasir: Her son, a renowned companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Shahada: The declaration of faith in Islam.
Jihad: Struggle or striving in the path of Allah, which can be spiritual or physical.

Quotation from Notable Writers

“Sumayah bint Khubbat’s devotion and sacrifice shine as a guiding star in the annals of Islamic history, illuminating the path of faith with her enduring spirit.” — Mariam Al-Suhaym

Exciting Facts

Enduring Legacy: Sumayah’s martyrdom is commemorated by Muslims worldwide, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for one’s faith.
First Female Martyr: Her death highlights the active role women played in the formative years of Islam.

Farewell Thought

Sumayah bint Khubbat’s unyielding devotion reminds us that faith thrives through the sacrifices made by those who walk the path of righteousness and truth.

### Who was Sumayah bint Khubbat? - [x] The first martyr in Islam. - [ ] The first woman to enter Medina. - [ ] A queen during the Islamic Golden Age. - [ ] A poet from Andalusia. > **Explanation:** Sumayah bint Khubbat is celebrated as the first martyr in the history of Islam. ### What does the name Sumayah mean in Arabic? - [x] High or elevated. - [ ] Beautiful. - [ ] Brave. - [ ] Pious. > **Explanation:** The name Sumayah (سمية) is derived from “high” or “elevated” in Arabic, symbolizing her exalted status in Islamic heritage. ### Sumayah bint Khubbat was tortured to death by whom? - [x] Abu Jahl. - [ ] Abu Bakr. - [ ] Abu Talib. - [ ] Umar ibn al-Khattab. > **Explanation:** Abu Jahl, a staunch opponent of Islam, was responsible for the torture and death of Sumayah bint Khubbat. ### During which period was Sumayah martyred? - [x] Pre-Hijra (615 CE). - [ ] Post-Hijra (622 CE). - [ ] During the Caliphates. - [ ] During the Umayyad period. > **Explanation:** Sumayah bint Khubbat was martyred in 615 CE, during the early years of Islam in Mecca, before the Hijra to Medina. ### Sumayah bint Khubbat was the mother of which renowned companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)? - [x] Ammar ibn Yasir. - [ ] Abu Hurairah. - [ ] Abdullah ibn Masood. - [ ] Bilal ibn Rabah. > **Explanation:** Sumayah was the mother of Ammar ibn Yasir, another prominent companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). ### How does the story of Sumayah highlight the role of women in early Islam? - [x] By showing their active participation and ultimate sacrifice. - [ ] By describing women's exclusion from the early community. - [ ] By emphasizing their domestic roles. - [ ] By portraying them as mere followers. > **Explanation:** Sumayah's story emphasizes the active role and sacrifices made by women in the early Islamic community. ### In what sense is Sumayah bint Khubbat's story commemorated among Muslims today? - [x] As a symbol of steadfast faith and ultimate sacrifice. - [ ] As a military victory. - [ ] As an academic achievement. - [ ] As a cultural festival. > **Explanation:** Her story is commemorated as a symbol of steadfast faith and ultimate sacrifice for Islam, inspiring Muslims worldwide. ### “Shahada” can be defined as: - [x] The declaration of faith in Islam. - [ ] The pilgrimage to Mecca. - [ ] The fast during Ramadan. - [ ] Charity to the poor. > **Explanation:** The Shahada is the Islamic declaration of faith: "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger."

author: “Fatima Al-Mahmoud”

Saturday, July 6, 2024