🌟 Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah: The Compassionate Wife of the Prophet
Definition and Meaning
Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah (d. 625 CE) was a wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She earned the epithet “Mother of the Poor” (Umm al-Masakin) due to her extraordinary commitment to charity. She was married to the Prophet after her husband’s death at the Battle of Uhud in 625 CE and passed away a few months later.
Etymology
Zaynab (زينب) is an ancient Arabic name, commonly believed to mean “fragrant flower.” The epithet bint al-Khuzaymah indicates that she was the daughter of al-Khuzaymah.
Background
Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah belongs to the early cohort of Muslim women dedicated to the teachings and community-building efforts of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Her union with the Prophet was part of his effort to provide for widows and strengthen community ties through marriage.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Birth: Unknown, Pre-Islamic Arabia
- Marriage to the Prophet: 625 CE, following the Battle of Uhud
- Death: 625 CE, Medina
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In Islamic culture, Zaynab’s acts of charity are immensely revered, symbolizing the deeply ingrained value of communal support and generosity. She serves as a vital prototype for Muslim women across cultures to epitomize compassion and charitable giving.
Synonyms
- Umm al-Masakin (Mother of the Poor)
Antonyms
N/A (as the context is historical and biographical in nature)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Battle of Uhud (غزوة أحد): A significant battle in Islamic history fought between Muslims and the Quraysh of Mecca in 625 CE.
- Sahabah (صحابة): Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Ummahat al-Mu’mineen (أمهات المؤمنين): Mothers of the Believers, a title given to the wives of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Exciting Facts
- She was among the very few who were directly married to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) due to her high moral stature and need for protection.
- Her charity was so profound that it continued to inspire Muslims after her death.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah stood as a beacon of generosity and benevolence, embodying the Islamic principles of compassion and care for the less fortunate.” - Ayan Hirsi, Islamic Women in History
References for Further Study
- “The Life of Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq - Classical text that includes references to various wives of the Prophet.
- “Companions of the Prophet” by Abdul Wahid Hamid - Biographies of the sahabah, including Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah.
- “Women around the Messenger” by Muhammad Ali Qutb - Details on the lives and contributions of significant women in early Islam.
Quizzes 🚀
May the charitable nature of Zaynab bint al-Khuzaymah continue to inspire you to greater acts of compassion and kindness. 🌼
Warm regards,
Fatimah Al-Kazmi
October 5, 2023
