JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF WOMANHOOD
Woman in Modern Society
The greatness and achievement of a person is judged on the basis of his or her services rendered for the benefit of mankind. Life is a reality; it is not a drama. The treatment of women with compassion or cruelty in a society, will not be judged on the basis of empty words, but on the basis of observation .
The Western world, woman is considered a vehicle for promoting products and services, including political maneuvering by the political parties. She is being robbed of integrity. The concept of extra marital relationship is being marketed by the Western media . Fornication and adultery is considered normality. The institution of marriage is considered a relic of the past. The same media then goes on to jeer permission given by Islam for polygamy, which in itself is regulated by the concept of justice. When it comes to giving legitimacy to the relationship between man and woman and binding them under a covenant of marriage, the trends in the West seem to be moving in the opposite direction.
Chastity of Woman
Islam places importance on the protection of the chastity of woman. To accuse her of inchastity without producing necessary evidence, is a crime punishable severely under Islamic code of law. In the process, Islam prescribes for woman a dress of modesty in order to give her a shield for self-protection. But unfortunately, there are certain European countries who are not prepared to honour the rights of their own citizens to wear a respectable dress - the hijab. A few years ago, the French media made a big fuss over the civil right of the two Muslim University students who decided to wear hijab - the Islamic dress
of decency - on the University campus. The two ladies became the focus of attack in the press and media. Suddenly the world was made to believe that French civilisation and culture was threatened by Islam. The French politicians behaved desperately to deny the two ladies an entry into the classrooms with head-scarf. If some European ladies had decided to go in indecent dresses into the classrooms, this would have been construed as their freedom of choice under civil rights. No civilization can be considered mature if it denies equal rights to its own citizens, regardless of colour, race and religion. But
when the Muslims are involved, they are treated with bias and double standards.
Dignified Status of Woman
Islamic law bestowed upon woman the right of inheritance and the right of possessing and disposing ofher property, when other communities of the world deprived her of her basic human rights. Islam placed the eternal reward of Paradise under the feet of woman, in her capacity as mother. The Prophet emphasised in his sermon on the mount Arafat, during his last pilgrimage to Makkah, as well as, in his last will on the death bed, that woman must be treated with kindness. Islam also gave equal rights to men and women to acquire knowledge. The Messenger of Allah said : "Acquisition of knowledge is an obligation
on every believing man and every believing woman." The key to any development is knowledge. By giving woman a complete right to progress in the field of knowledge, Islam considers woman an indispensable partner of man for building a healthy and constructive society.
One of the outstanding achievements of the mission of Prophet Muhammad (saww) was to uplift the status, honour and dignity of woman, who was meted out a brutal and inhuman treatment in the pre-Islamic era. Islam prepared woman to fulfil her social duties and become a dignified daughter, a respectable wife and a loving mother. At each phase of her life, Islam elevated progressively, the respect to be given to womanhood. She was not to be considered a mere chattel. She was not to be exploited for
economic and commercial ends. She had a role to play, not only in protecting her household, but also in protecting the society as a whole. Islam placed on her shoulder a co-responsibility of safeguarding the purity and sanctity of family environment, and that of generations to come. The fabric of the society is shaken when woman leads the way towards social decadence. Families are disintegrated and children are left to wander in wilderness, when woman fails in her obligations.
Greatest Woman of Islam
Islam presented a model character of womanhood in the great personalities of Lady Khadijah, the Mother of the Believers, and her daughter Fatima, the truthful. The former sacrificed the power and glory of abundant wealth for the sake of Islam, and adopted a life of poverty. The latter followed the footsteps of her mother and left an immortal legacy of human greatness, expressed in her attributes of purity, sincerity, unshakeable faith and contentment with the pleasure of Allah, in happiness and
afflictions.
Lady Fatima was born on 20th Jamadi-ul-Thani, five years after the declaration of Prophethood. Ibn 'Abdul Birr quotes 'Aisha, the wife of the Prophet as saying, "I have seen no one whose words and speech were as similar to that of the Prophet as Fatima's " (Al-Isti'ab). The overwhelming love and respect which existed between the Prophet and his daughter, were based at the apex of human compassion. When 'Aisha was asked : "Who was the most beloved to the Prophet among men?" She replied : "Ali". When she was asked : "Who was the most beloved to him among women?" She replied : "Fatima". The Prophet normally welcomed his daughter by rising, taking her hand, kissing her and
seating her in his place. She was the last person the Prophet used to see when leaving Madina; and was
the first person the Prophet used to visit on returning back to Madina.
When the companions of the holy Prophet, Abu Bakr, Umar and Abdul Rahman bin Awf, in turn, asked her hand in marriage, the Prophet replied that he was awaiting Divine Order in this respect. This reply shows that all the actions of the Prophet were dictated by the Divine Will. When Ali proposed, the Prophet gladly accepted after consulting her. The Prophet said that had it not been for Ali, Fatima would
not have had a suitable match. It was only through the family of Ali and Fatima that the Almighty gave an ever present existence to the progeny of Prophet Muhammad (saww). The result of this wedlock was revealed across centuries when, the world of Islam witnessed constructive contribution made by the lineage of Ali and Fatima, in the field of science, exegesis of the Quran, ahadith traditions) of the Prophet, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), adab (literature) and other branches of knowledge. They broke the record of bravery in Jihad - the struggle for the sake of Allah and His religion. They sacrificed their life
but never abandoned the battlefield.
The Most Blessed Wedding on Earth
The words uttered by the Prophet on the occasion of the marriage of Amirul Moamineen Ali and Lady
Fatima in the Mosque, in the assembly of Sahaba (the companions), reflected his insight and wishes,
which were translated into actions and achievements that followed. The Prophet prayed in his sermon: "O Allah! Bless both of them, sanctify their progeny and grant them the keys of Your Beneficence, Your treasures of wisdom... and let both of them be a source of blessing and peace to my ummah
(community)." It was a perfect harmony and greatness in the character of Imam Ali and Lady Fatima, which never allowed them to lose patience and perseverance. They were indeed, a great blessing to the ummah as the Prophet had foreseen. Numerous narrations related from the Prophet and recorded in the ancient books of ahadith, describe their proximity with the Prophet in his mission. Imam Ali and Lady
Fatima and the children from their lineage are at the apex of the taharat (purity) of the Prophet's household. The verse of purification revealed in the holy Quran is a living testimony to this fact. Their foremost and pioneering spirit of sacrifice for Islam, could never be obliterated from the hearts and memory of generations of mankind. Their prayers and sacrifice, their living and dying was for Allah, the Lord of the Universe. Their faith and devotion was for their Creator and for His cause, which they served selflessly.
No household was as successful as that of Imam Ali and Lady Fatima because it was built on the foundation laid down by the Prophet and Lady Khadijah, whose greatness surpasses human imagination. The graduates of this purified family were given honours, hitherto unheard of. The Prophet named his daughter Fatima : "Leader of the women of the worlds." He described her husband Ali, the valiant in Jihad, as : "I am the city of knowledge and Ali is its gate." He called her two sons Hassan and Hussain : "the Leaders of the youths of Paradise." No family unit, since the creation began, has ever produced so many qualities, whose radiance glitters the soul and spirit of the obedient devotees of the Almighty.
The Knowledge and Wisdom of the Leader of the Ladies of Paradise
The outstanding wisdom of the members of the household of the Prophet is expressed through their
deeds and words, which were always coherent with each other. They were the role models of all the
ethical behaviour which they taught. They preached what they practised in public and private life. The
purity of their faith in Allah was manifest in their love, devotion and obedience to Allah.
Fatima, the truthful lady of the house of the Prophet, derived her knowledge and wisdom directly from
the Prophet, who derived his through the Revelation. Lady Fatima (a.s.) watched closely all the actions
of her father, who was commissioned by the Almighty to guide humanity towards the Right Path. She
was brought up by the Prophet and taught how to be a perfect example for womanhood, as he was for
man. The Prophet said, "Fatima is my part. Whoever pleases her, pleases me, and whoever displeases
her, displeases me." There are many ahadith (traditions) of the Prophet narrated in the authentic books
of Muslims, which emphasise clearly the special position enjoyed by her in the Islamic upbringing
(tarbiyah) of the Muslim community (ummah). Indeed, Lady Fatima was an integral part of the mission
of Prophet Muhammad (saww) and she remained totally committed to that status as long as she lived.
Lady Fatima describes Iman (Faith) and the Articles of Faith
Faith in the Creator is essential for submission to His Will. Polytheism pollutes the soul, in as much as,
disbelief in the Oneness and Uniqueness of God, results in agnosticism. This fact is best reflected in the
wise tradition of Lady Fatima. She says, "Allah ordained Faith for you as a purity from polytheism."
However, Faith must have its outer expression in the form of worship. The mode of prayers (Salaat)
prescribed by Islam is such that a worshipper remains ever conscious of the presence of God. Human
weakness and its susceptibility to commit sins has to be constantly reminded of the favours of God.
Salaat (Prayers)
All our endeavours are incomplete without being thankful for the benevolence of the Sustainer. Hence,
Lady Fatima says, "And Allah ordained Salaat (prayers) as the cause of your purification from pride." In
the daily prayers performed in congregation, the white and the black, the rich and the poor, the rulers and
their subjects, the master and the slave, become equal in the sight of God and stand shoulder to shoulder,
without any discrimination.
Zakaat (Alms)
If the sense of thankfulness is not extended to humanbeings, with whom we have to co-exist, then
thanks-giving to God is not complete. We are interdependent on each other. Islam neither believes nor
preaches any existence in isolation. Human favours must be repaid with favours, according to the Quran.
Therefore, helping fellow humans who are in need, is also an obligatory duty in Islam. Says Lady Fatima,
"And Allah made alms (obligatory), for the purity of your soul and as a means of increasing your
sustenance." This shows that Zakaat (poor due) is not considered a loss, but an investment which will be
repaid with manifold favours and bounties of Allah.
Saum (Fasting)
In order to formulate a habit of extending a helping hand to the needy and poor members of human
society, one has to feel their hardships. Islam trains the believers for any eventuality. Poverty and
richness can easily change sides, as the history of human existence on earth teaches us. Lady Fatima
throws light on this aspect of Islamic teachings in her tradition. She says, "And Allah made (obligatory),
fasting (saum) for the firmness of sincerity." Indeed, sincerity towards the creatures of God is an
expression of sincerity towards the Creator. Those who do not value human life, are not sincere to God.
Those who cannot feel and meet the hardship of poor, have some defects in their humanity. The
believers are given a practical spiritual training through all forms of worship. For example, fasting keeps
them aware of the throngs of hunger and thirst suffered by the majority of human beings as a daily
routine in their life.
Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah)
Muslims also have to have a first hand knowledge of the plight of the fellow members of the
community. Islam goes as far as providing an opportunity, where the believers can meet each other in the
largest gathering ever on the face of the earth. Once in a life-time, the believers who can afford, have a
duty to go for pilgrimage to Makkah. Lady Fatima says, "And Allah made (obligatory), Hajj (pilgrimage),
for the reinforcement of the religion." This proves that religion is expressly concerned with serving the
cause of God, one of the most vital aspect of which is, to be in communion with the masses.
'Adl (Justice)
The obvious shortcoming of the modern society is the absence of fairness in most of the human
dealings. This creates hard feelings in the hearts of the ones who are deprived of justice. All the class
struggles, crimes, wars and other violent outbursts are due to lack of justice. Lady Fatima emphasises the
importance of justice in her tradition. She says, "And Allah made (obligatory), abiding by justice, a means
for harmonisation of the hearts."
There are many people who are hurt by the society's failure in dispensing justice. When the Bosnian
Muslims were massacred and their women were raped by the barbaric supporters of the brutal dictator of
Serbia in the early nineties, the NATO was indifferent to the tragic plight of Bosnians. The UN
intermediaries appointed to broker a peace agreement, told the helpless and abandoned people of Bosnia,
not to expect any intervention from the Europeans to solve their problems! It was in fact, one of the most
serious crisis of the twentieth century. As a result, by the late nineties, the fascism in Serbia was already
emulating the form and style of Nazis. Suddenly the NATO realised that it cannot tolerate ethnic
cleansing in the heart of Europe. Had action been taken when the Bosnian men were bundled in mass
graves and their children were separated from their mothers, the Hitlers of Serbia would not have
succeeded in their crime against humanity in carrying out genocide. When people are deprived of justice,
hearts cannot be harmonised and the enmity continues from generation to generation.
'Amr bin Ma'aroof' and 'Nahi anil Munkar' (Enjoining good and forbidding evil)
Peace can be established in a society through interaction of certain
contributory factors. Islam trains members of its community to meet the
objective of peaceful co-existence with others by promoting righteousness and
opposing evil. Only in this way justice can prevail. Without justice, there can
never be peace; and dispensation of justice can only be achieved through
authoritative guidance. Yet, we come across strange standards being set by
politicians. So long as the autocrats, coming from the other parts of the world,
confine their ruthlessness to their own countrymen, the champions of human
rights are prepared to turn a blind eye. In the case of the third world countries,
if these dictators can prove their worth by serving political interest of the
'democratic nations' of the West, then they might even qualify for moral and
military support! Where does the fundamental concept of 'enjoining good' and
'forbidding evil', preached by the revealed religions, fit into such political
games?
Lady Fatima says, "And Allah made (obligatory), enjoining good (amr bil ma'aroof) and forbidding evil
(nahi 'anil munkar), for the improvement of the society." Every member of the society who cares for its
betterment, has to honour this duty. Life is like a journey which moves towards a set destiny. All the
travellers on a plane, normally have one common objective, that of reaching their destination safely. But
if anyone of the co-travellers tries to open the emergency door of the aircraft in mid-air, he has to be
restrained by other passengers. No sensible person would justify the action of a crazy traveller in the
name of 'freedom of choice'. In other words, no excuse can be acceptable under the slogan of 'freedom
of action' when life of other people is in danger. At this point in time, the effort of all the passengers
would be concentrated on enjoining good and forbidding evil. If persuasion fails, then they would have to
use force in the interest of all concerned.
Jihad (Holy Struggle)
This leads us to yet another important duty bestowed on responsible communities - that of struggling
towards the Right Path or the Path of God, which features an inherent goodness and purity. Lady Fatima
(a.s.) draws our attention by saying, "And Allah made (obligatory), Jihad (struggling for the sake of God)
the glory for Islam and humiliation for the infidels and the hypocrites." But how can one struggle with
himself (or herself) and with the outside world? There is one essential ingredient which can lead to
success. Jihad has to be supported by patience, so that one does not lose the aim of the struggle, which
one undergoes persistently in life.
Sabr (Patience)
A person is constantly struggling with his own desires and with the challenges of the outside world. He
may have to adopt different mode of fighting the evil tendencies of his inner self and of his surroundings.
In both the processes, impatience can thwart his efforts. Therefore, Lady Fatima advises us, "And Allah
made (obligatory), the patience (sabr) as an aid for getting eternal reward." God is the bestower of eternal
rewards, which will be extended beyond life, when all our actions would have come to an end. The
virtues of this life, for the benefit of mankind, would materialise in the form of bounties of God.
Birr-al-Waledain (Righteous conduct towards parents)
First and foremost in the categories of virtuous living and maintaining human rights, are the rights of
parents that must be respected. Says Lady Fatima, "And Allah made (obligatory), the righteous
behaviour (or kindness) towards parents (birr al waledain) as a protection from His wrath."
Silat-ul-Arhaam (connections with kinship)
Second in the category of human rights are the rights of blood relatives (Silat-ul-arhaam). Lady Fatima
continues, "And Allah made (obligatory), connections with kinship the cause of lengthening of life." One
of the strong bond of protection is good relation of a person with his relatives. They are his partners in
joy and sorrow. They are the first source to whom he turns in need and in hardship. They provide
solace in grief. They are his backbone when he is treated unjustly by others. Therefore, Islam places
great importance on the bond of kinship.
Wafa bin-Nadhr (fulfilment of vow)
This is how Islam lays the foundation of the social structure of society. In any society, there are bound
to occur deviations and inequities. But there are ways and means to enforce corrective measures. For
example, a person may take a vow or make a promise to himself that he would carry out certain good
deeds. He is expected to fulfil his vow, simply because God is aware of his intention and is the main
witness of his vow. Lady Fatima says in this respect, "And Allah made (obligatory), the execution of vow
(wafa bin-nadhr) as a medium of forgiveness." This means that Allah has kept His door of Mercy open
and is willing to forgive His repentant servants, who fulfil their vows. Despite such lofty morals, Islam
comes under attack from many obstinate people with half knowledge, although they are aware that Islam
has solutions to many challenging problems of the modern world.
Qisaas (Punishment for homicide)
Deviation in society is reflected in an increasing rate of violent crimes. Murderers get away with
sentences far less in proportion to the severity of grievances caused to the bereaved families. Islamic
penal law is based on capital punishment as a deterrent to crime. In this way, the rights of all citizens to
live in peace can be respected. Lady Fatima has explained this aspect in her tradition. She Says, "And
Allah made (obligatory), law of qisaas (retaliation for homicide against the guilty) as the security from
spilling (innocent) blood."
Tawfiyat al-Makaeel wal Mawazeen (correct use of weights and measures)
As people interact with each other in economic activities, Islam emphasises fair dealings in trade.
Dishonesty in trade can generate enmity. Lady Fatima, whilst explaining the Islamic principle of just
dealings, says, "And Allah made (obligatory), the correct use of weights and measures as a deterrent from
fraud." Modern societies have introduced many legal requirements to protect the interest of consumers,
as regards the description of goods and usage of correct weights and measures. Yet, this does not stop
greedy traders from cheating innocent members of the public.
Tark as-Sirqah (refraining from theft)
Thefts committed through misrepresenting the description of goods and services, generate counter
reaction at consumer level. Lady Fatima covers this point by saying, "And Allah made (obligatory),
refraining from theft for the sake of decency." Decent behaviour in the process of exchange of goods and
services, can spare buyers and sellers from unfair transactions.
An-Nahi 'an Shurbil Khamr (prohibition from drinking alcohol)
In recent years, scientific discovery that, smoking imminently damages health, has been given a wide
publicity. If a fraction of similar publicity was given to the negative and destructive effects of drinking
alcohol, then society would have been saved from many disasters. The adverse effects of consumption
of alcohol are too obvious to be concealed. At personal and social level, this habit is showing its landmark
in the increasing number of accidents, crimes, assaults and wastage of resources. Says Lady Fatima,
"And Allah made prohibition from drinking intoxicants, the cause of refraining from evils."
Ijtinab al-Qadhf (prohibition from accusing others of adultery)
Islam has prohibited certain acts as a shield from going astray. Society consists of individuals, and
individuals comprise communities and families. If family unit is saved from the damaging effects of
permissiveness, then the foundation of community becomes strong. If the community is on the right
track, then it enjoys respect in the society. This is why Islam seeks to protect the chastity of family
above everything else. However, where the fabric of society is threatened due to sinful acts, rigorous
procedure is followed under Islamic law before verdict is passed. A person cannot indulge himself in
loose gossip of accusing others of adultery. If he cannot produce witnesses, he himself becomes liable to
punishment. This is one of the cases, where damage is easy to inflict but difficult to mend. This fact is
reflected in the tradition of Lady Fatima who says, "And Allah made (obligatory), the prohibition from
accusing (others) of adultery, as a protection for avoiding the curse (of Allah)."
Tahrem as-Shirk (prohibition of polytheism)
If the triangle of family, community and society is to remain healthy, then at each level there has to be
a conscious recognition of the purpose behind human existence. God did not create mankind in vain. In
Islam, Tawheed (Oneness and Uniqueness of God) is at the core of religious faith. Polytheism is
considered an unforgivable sin. Lady Fatima emphasises this fact and says, "And Allah prohibited
polytheism for the sake of sincerity in (abiding by) His worship."
Taa'at Ahl ul Bait (obedience of the holy progeny of the Messenger of Allah)
The path that leads us to God is pure and sublime, without any crookedness. In the human society,
certain selected persons have been chosen to lead the human caravan towards salvation. Due to their
own exalted character and devoted spirit, they are best placed to guide humanity towards justice and
peaceful living. They are the ones through whom Allah departs his guidance because they are the keepers
of His Trust. They are the heirs of the Final Message of God, conveyed to His creatures. Lady Fatima is
explicit on this matter. She says, "And Allah made (obligatory), the obedience of us (the holy household
of the Prophet) for safeguarding the society's system of organisation, and our Imamate (leadership), as a
security from disunity."
In the short period that Fatima Az-Zahra (Fatima the radiant) lived after her father, and until the time
she died at the age of 18, she devoted her life to fight for justice. She was absolutely sure that Muslim
community can only be saved from misguidance by following the leadership of the House of the Prophet,
in accordance to his will. But the majority of Muslims opted to follow whoever came to power. What
was the result? The innumerable divisions among Muslims speak for themselves. Muslims have agreed
not to agree with each other despite the fact that the Quran invites them towards tolerance, respect, unity,
and brotherhood.
The Opposition resorts to Distortions
Let us take only one of many examples that could easily fill volumes. A majority-sect of Muslims
consider 'Al Bukhari', the work of Muhammad bin Ismail Al Bukhari, of the collection of the narrations of
Prophet Muhammad (saww), as the most authentic. That is why, they call it 'Al Sahih Al Bukhari'. The
description 'Sahih' is attached to the compilation made by imam Bukhari himself. But the latest editions
of Al Bukhari are being censored. The censors have taken out the Prophet's traditions (ahadith) that do
not comply with, or contradict their own pre-conceived beliefs. This matter has to be viewed from a
simple point of logic. If it is possible for them to distort the book of traditions of the holy Prophet, which
a majority-sect of Muslims consider 'Sahih' (authentic), how much more distortions they would have
introduced since the early eighteenth century, when, with the support of the British, they became
dominant in the holy lands? This particular class considers all Muslims, except their own sect, as nothing
but heretics. It is a tragedy for all Muslims that many of the mosques and their imams, are coming under
the direct influence of this sect, simply because they are very good spenders of petro dollars. But Muslim
masses are not deaf, dumb and blind. They are aware that in the name of enforcing the laws of Islam
(Shari'a), the people who are introducing innovations in religion, have two different faces. When a poor
person, who is a victim of the injustices of their society, turns to stealing, his hand is cut off. But when
men in power resort to bribery and misappropriations involving millions of dollars, nobody could point a
finger at them. When a poor man or woman is accused of adultery, they have to face capital
punishment. But when men in power inhabit the night clubs and casinos and openly flout Islamic
injunctions, the law of Shari'a suddenly becomes unenforceable!
Who Can Implement Islamic Shari'a?
In any country where Islamic Law is the supreme Law of the State, no exceptions can ever be allowed.
The rulers and the ruled become liable to the authority of the Law, without any distinction. The tragedy
of the matter is, the governments who are making noises in the name of Islamic Law or the Shari'a are the
ones who exempt themselves from its enforceability. Whether they commit cold blooded murders or
break their covenants or commit a robbery of the savings of their own citizens, they always find
loopholes to save their own skins. In the name of the Shari'a, they make mockery of Islam, when they
know quite well that they simply do not have basic qualities and authority to talk in the name of Islamic
Law. The appropriate qualities give necessary authority to the persons who are qualified to establish
Islamic System. The enthusiasts might not have to go any further in search of the pre-required qualities in
Islamic leadership. History bears testimony to the fact that the first Islamic Government in which the
Law of the Quran was most supreme, was established by the Prophet who won the title of 'the truthful'
and 'the trustworthy' from friends, as well as, foes. No person lacking these essential qualities can
possibly stand in his shoes or claim to be the protector of Faith.
The salutations and blessings of Allah be upon Lady Fatima, who feared from early days that Muslims
might end up in a menace if they do not follow the rightful leadership after the Prophet. As a result of
this deviation, throughout the Umayyad and Abbaside reign, and upto this day, Muslims continue calling
their tyrant and ruthless rulers 'Commander of the Believers'. But the true believers in the Message of
Allah have not become dishonourable that they need oppressive rulers to command them. A frivolous use
of any description, cannot change reality of the situation. Muslim masses have been misled to believe that
any government who contemplates enforcing Islamic Law is an Islamic government. At the same time,
non-Muslim communities are misled to believe that Islamic Law is only concerned with cutting of hands
and chopping of heads.
Jealousy and Resentment towards the Progeny of the Holy Prophet
Despite the great status, the pure and purified Lady enjoys in the sight of Allah and His Prophet, there
is a deliberate attempt in the holy lands of Muslims to remove categorically the traces of any historical site
associated with the name of Lady Fatima and Imam Ali. In 1926, the heinous crime was committed by
the authorities to demolish the burial places of the daughter of the Prophet and the Imams of the House of
the Prophet at Jannatul Baqi' in the holy city of Al Madina. This was followed by destruction of the
house in which the Prophet lived happily with Mother of the Believers Khadijah for 28 years of his life.
This was the house in which Lady Fatima was born and from which the Prophet had migrated from
Makkah to Madina on the night of Hijrah. Gradually the quarters of Banu Hashim (the clan of the
Prophet) in Makkah, as well as, in Madina were also annihilated. This was followed by a total destruction
of the house of Abu Ayyub Al Ansari in Madina, which was the first residence of the Prophet after
migration. Then came the turn of destroying the houses of Imam Hassan and Imam Ja'ffer Al Sadiq
under the pretext of the expansion of Masjid Al Nabavi.
Now the crime of destruction has extended to the mosque of Fatima-az-Zahra at the historic site of the
battle of Khandaq (Trenches) under the pretext of expansion of road. The historical mosques of
Radd-us-Shams and the house of Maria Qibtiya, where she was buried, have also been bulldozed. This
wife of the Prophet was blessed by Allah to be the mother of the Prophet's son, Ibrahim who died in
infancy. The Prophet himself arranged for a house to be constructed for her on the outskirts of Madina.
Recently there have been demonstrations in Pakistan against the onslaught of these deviants to destroy the
traces of the grave of Janabe Amena bint Wahab, the respectable mother of Prophet Muhammad
(saww). This is an insult at the honour and dignity of the Prophet himself. According to their pervert
beliefs, the father and mother of the holy Prophet were not Muslims!!! But they cannot possibly refute
the judgement of Allah regarding the faith of Prophet Ibrahim. The Quran says: "Ibrahim was not a Jew
or a Christian, but he was an upright in faith a Muslim (one who surrendered to the Will of Allah)." Are
they trying to tell us that Prophet Ibrahim failed to pass his faith in Tawheed to his progeny? If not, then
it follows that the ancestors of Prophet Muhammad were also adherents of the faith of Ibrahim, which is
amply demonstrated by historical evidence. So how can the father and the mother of Sayyad-ul-Ambiya
(the leader of all the Prophets), Muhammad (saww), be non-Muslims, when they were direct descendants
of Prophet Ibrahim?
They are successful in destroying Islamic historical sites, in flagrant violation of the UN Charter of
Human Rights because of the conspiracy of silence on the part of the majority of Muslims. The
distinctive feature of Islam as compared to other systems of the world is based on supporting the truth at
all cost. But the morale of the Muslim community, at present, is to remain apathetic no matter what
injustices prevail around them. They are not realizing that their silence is going to cost the future
generations of Muslims a complete segregation from their roots. This is precisely what is intended by the
dominant sect in the holy lands, who has shown its contempt against Islamic history and Islamic
archaeology at the detriment of the interest of Muslim ummah.
Fatima Zahra (A.S.) on the Way to Marriage When Fatima Zahra (A.S.) reached the age nine
Fatima Zahra (A.S.) on the Way to Marriage When Fatima zahra (A.S.) reached the age nine years , she was a fully grown woman who enjoyed intellectual maturity and integrity of conduct. ALLAH gifted her with a brilliantmentality and cleverness, together with beauty,grace and elegance. Her talents were many and her inherited and acquired noble traits, excel those of many female or male.Fatima's religious feelings and literary knowledge were limited. You will come to know that she was the most knowledgeable and most honorable woman in the world. In fact history has not witnessed any other woman who achieved such a high level of education, knowledge, and social graces that Fatima reached; regardless of the fact that she did not graduate from any educational establishment save the school of Revelation and membership. In light of this, it is not strange that prominent compasions of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) asked to marry her, but he (P.B.U.H.) rejected them by saying: "Her affair is left to her Lord; whenever He wills, she will marry." Abu Bakr and Umar were among those who asked to marry Fatima, but the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) rejected them too, and said the she was still too young for marriage. Abdurrahman Ibn Awf also asked for her hand, but the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) ignored him. Abu Bakr came to see the Prophet (P.B.U.H.). After sitting down he said: "O Messenger of ALLAH, you surely know of my devotion and long standing service to Islam..."
The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) then said: "What is it that you want?" Abu Bakr then said: "I want you to give me Fatima in marriage." When the Prophet heard this, he did not say anything, so Abu bakr returnd to Umar and said: "I have
ruinedmyself and others!!" Umar said: "What happned?" Abu Bakr replied: "I asked for Fatima's hand from the Prophet, but he ignored me." Umar said: "You stay here, and I will go ask the Prophet for the same thing that you asked
him for." Umar went to the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and after sitting down started to saying: "O Messenger of ALLAH, you surely know my devotion and long lasting service to Islam..." said: "What is it that you want"? Umar replied: "I want you to give me Fatima in marriage." But the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) ignored him too. Umar returned to Abu Bakr and said: "He is waiting for ALLAH's command in this regard." Perhaps the Messenger avoived telling Abu Bakr and Umar openly that he is keeping Fatima for the qualified man, because he did not want to declare to them that they were unqualified to marry her, and that his
daughter was above their level. The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) also wanted everythng to occur in it's natural order. Imam Ali (A.S.) was staying in the house of Saad Ibn Ma'adh since he immigrated to Medina. One day while Imam Ali (A.S.) was in one of the gardens of the Medina, Saad came to him and said: "What prevents you from asking to marry Fatima from your cousin?" It has also been mentioned in Kanz Al-Umal that Umar came to Ali (A.S.) and said: "What prevents you from give her to me in marriage!" Umar said: "If he does not give her to you in marriage, then who will she marry? Besides, you are the nearest of ALLAH's creatures to him..." Actually, Ali (A.S.) had never mentioned his deisre to marry Fatima to two reasons, first his shyness to do in front of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.), and seconldy because of his very difficlut economic conditions. Imam Ali (A.S.) owned nothig of empherial belongings of this world-not even a house or a peace of land!! So how could he get married? And where would he live with his wife? Besides, Fatima (A.S.) is not the type of woman who can be neglected or looked down upon!! Imam Ali (A.S.) finally approached the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and asked for Fatima's hand in marriage. The Messenger, who has absolute gaurdianship over all Muslim men and women, including his daughter, would not announce his agreement to the marriage without Fatima's consent.The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) in reply to Ali said: "Ali, many men have asked before you and she has rejected them-her resentment to marry them was clear on her face. Yet, wait until I bring you the answer." The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) left Ali waiting for the answer. the Prophet informed his daughter that Ali wished to marry her. Fatima did not need to ask
about Ali's occupation, manners, age and other traits; because she knew all about his talents, excellent traits and long standing sevice to Islam. It is for this reason that the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) only said to her: "Fatima, you know Ali Ibn Abi Talib's relationship to us, his devotion and faithfulness to Islam. I asked ALLAH to give you in marriage to the best of His creatures, and the most beloved to Him; and Ali has declared his wish to marry you; what do you say?" Faima did not reply, nor did she show a sign of rejection or resentment, so he (P.B.U.H.) stood an said: "ALLAH is the Greatest! Her silence is her approval." The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) went back to the waiting Ali and informed him of Fatima's approval of the marriage.
He also inquired about the extent of his preparedness to fulfill the requirements needed for the wedding (dowry). The Prophet said to Ali: "Do you posses anything which you can pay for the dowry to marry Fatima?" Imam Ali answerd: "May my parents be your sacrifice! By ALLAH, there is not a thing of my affiars hidden from you; I own my sword, shield and the camel which I use for irrigation!!" The Messenger listened to Ali and said: "Ali, you cannot do without your sword, for you have to struggle with it and defend yourself against the enemies of ALLAH. As for your camel, you need it to irrigate palm trees and support your family, and you need it as a means of travel. But I accept the shield as a dowry from you; thus, sell it and bring me the money!!" TheCommander of the Faithful (A.S.) sold the shield for 480 or 500 dirhams and brought the (P.B.U.H.). They both agreed that this money would be the dwory of the most honorable girl and the most exalted female of the universe. Yes, Fatima was the Mistress of the women of the world, and the daughter of the master of Prophets and Messengers, who was the best of ALLAH's creatures.Despite Fatima's modest marriage on Earth, Allah.The Exalted, bestowed her with an honourable gift. He (Golry be to Him ) gave her in marriage to Ali Ibn Abu Talib,before the Messanger himsef did so. The celebration took place in the fourth Heaven near Al-Baith Al-Ma'mour(the constantly attended house of Allah).It is reported in Nuzhat Al- Majalis tha Anas Ibn Malik said: The Prophet was in the mosque when he said to Ali: "Here is Gabriel informing me that Allah gave Fatima to you in marriage, and made forty thousand angels testify to to her marriage. He also revealed to the tree of Tuba to sprinkle them with gems, rubies, jewelry and embellishments. When it had done this, the Huris rushed to collect these gems, rubies, jewelry and embellishments to exchangethem for gifts until the day of Resurrection" (Sayuti reported this narration in Tahdheer Al-Khawas.) The Prophet gave AbuBakr some money and asked him to accompany Bilal and Salman (or Ammar Ibn Yasir) to buy some household necessities for Fatima's house. The Prophet said to Abu Bakr: "Buy some appropriate household necessities for my daughter with this money." Abu Bakr said: "He gave sixty-three Dirhams, so we went to the market and bought the following
Two mattresses made of Egyptian canvas.(One stuffed with fiber and the other with sheep wool)
A leather mat.
A pillow made of skin, filled with palm tree fiber.
A Khaibarian cloak.
An animal skin for water.
Some jugs and jars also for warer.
A pitcher painted with tar.
A thin curtain made of wool.
A shirt costing seven Dirhams
A veil costing four Dirhams.
A black plush cloak.
A bed embellished with ribbon.
Four cushions made of skin imported from Ta'ef, stuffed with a good smelling plant.
A mat from Hajar.
A hand mill.
A special copper container used for dyestuff.
A pestle for grinding coffee.
A (water ) skin.
When Abu Bakr and the other companions had bought the above mentioned articles, they carried them to Um Salama's house. When the Prophet(P.B.U.H) saw them, he started kissing every article and supplicated to Allah, saying:" O Allah, bless them! for they are people who the majority of their belongings are made of natural materials." These were all furnishings they purchased for the daughter of the best of all Prophets and Messengers. But indeed, marital happiness is not achieved by wealth and overspending, nor can expensive wardrobes, gems, golden ware, luxurious furniture, splendid palaces or comfortable automobiles provide a person with marrital happiness, contrary to the beliefs of most people.
Although Fatima's(A.S) dowry was modest, because of the Messenger's wish to set an example for the muslims and for other implicit reasons, Fatima Zahra(A.S) did not ignore her greatness and exalted identity to obtain a fantastic gift for her wedding.Fatima's drive for excellence and perfection motivated her to ask for the right of intercedence-if Allah willed-for the sinners among the muslims.
Nasfi said: "Fatima (A.s) asked the Prophet (P.B.U.H) that her dowry would be intercedence for his nation on the Day of Resurrection. So when she passes the path, she will ask for her dowry.
SAYINGS OF FATIMA ZEHRA(A.S)
1. Praise and Eulogy is for Allah for the blessing and bounties which He
has bestowed. And thanks to HIM upon what He revelated (to His
servants) And Praise is for HIM upon the common boons and blessings
which He bestowed upon His servants without their request And upon
the comprehensive and complete blessings which He granted to all and
sundry and gave it to us, consequetively. Those graces and favours
which are uncountable. And are irredeemable and uncompensatable
due to their plentifulness of number. And the imagination of their end is
out of the reach of human mind. He invited the servant to thankfuness
for the sake of the consequetive and continous enhanecment of
blessings. And opened the door of euloqy and Praise (of Allah) upon
them so that He may make his favours and beneficiences great and
plentiful for them.
2. I testify that there is no Diety (Lord) except the sole and matchless
Allah. And the testification of the singleness of Allah is a word that Allah
has declared sincerity (as) it's reality, and made the hearts the centre of
it's contact and union. And has made the specifications and research of
the oneness of Allah's station obvious and evident in the light of
meditation. The Allah Who can not be seen by the eyes and tongues
are unable and baffled to describe His virtues and attributes. And the
intelligence and apprehension of man is helpless and destitude from the
imagination of his howness.
3.Allah made all the beings without previous matter and sample and shape and pattern. And made them wear the dress of life by His main and mights and created them according to His Devine will and Intention short of it that He might have neeeded their creatlon or have wished any benefit for Himself from their shaping and sketching except this that
he wanted to give a proof of Hls wisdom and make the eople
(creations) aware about His obedience and submisslon and invited them to his servitude and worship and make His Invitation grand andostentatlous.
4.Allah fixed the reward for His obedience and torment for His
insubordination and disobedience so that He may restraln His servants
from His wrath and fury and lead them to His paradise.
5.
And I testify that my father Mohammad (SAW) is the apostle and the
servant of Allah. And Allah selected and chose him before appolnting
him at the post of Prophethood. And He named him before choosing
and selecting him. And chose him before envoying and delegating him.
Then all the creations were hidden and covered in the covers of
unseen and were hidden amid the screen and curtain of fear and fright
and stayed near the last and final border of non entity (nothingness) for
Allah was aware of and knew the end of matters and because of Hls
encompassing the incidents of times and ages and His knowledge of
the predestinates. Allah appolnted him (as apostle) so that he may
complete and finalise His matter and Implement His order and
materialise His decreeds and predestinates.
6.
Allah saw nations and groups had various different sects in their
religion and scattered and staying on the verge of the fires of
differences, busy with the their idol worshipping. They denied God with
all the signs and symbols of HIM. (IRFAN) So Allah illuminated the
darknesses through my father Mohammad (SAW) and removed the
darknesses from their hearts, removed (cured) the blindness of the
eyes.
7.
My father (Mohammad (SAW) ) stood up with (his) guidance among the
people. And saved them from perversion and aberration, and turned
their blindness into enlightenment and guided them towards the firm
redligion. And called (invited) them to the straight way.
8.
You the servants of Allah, are the ones to maintain His injunctions and
prohibitions, and the carriers of His religion, and His relevation, and the
trustees of Allah upon your souls, and the propagators of His religion
among the other nations.
9.
Oh the servants of Allah! (beware) the real leader from Allah, is present
among you and the commitment has previously been made to you and
the remaining and left over of the prophet hood has been appointed for
your guidance. That is the speaking book of Allah the truthful Quran,
and a beaming and gleaming light, in which all the secrets and facts
about the completion of man and his prosperity have been exhibited
and illuminated. It guides from darkness towards light of guidance. It s
followers are the subject of envoy of others.
10.
The book of Allah is the guide of it's followers towards the pleasure of
Allah. Listening (carefully) to it leads to the salvation. The enlightened
and conspicous evidences and proofs of Allah can be obtained through
it. And (also the knowledge) of His interpreted intentions and fear
invoking constraining prohibitions. His sufficing testimonies and
conspicous arguments, and desired virtues and allowed endowments
and gifts and obligatory devine laws. (can be obtained from it)
11.
Allah made the faith for you as a purity from polytheism (and infedility).
12.
And (made) service the cause of your getting distant (purification) from
pride (egoism).
13.
And rendered alms for the purity of your soul and flourishment and
expansion of your sustenence.
14.
And rendered fasting for the maintainance and firmness of your
sincerity.
15.
And Allah set Hajj for the consolidation and reinforcement of the
religion.
16.
Allah executed and rendered justice for the sake of putting together and
harmonization of the hearts.
17.
And (Allah set) the subordination and obedience of us (the houshold of
the Prophet (SAW)) for the security of society's system and our
Immamate as a safety from seggregation and disunity).
18.
And (Allah made) Jahad (holy war), the honour and glory for Islam and
abjectness and humbleness for the infidels and the hypocrites.
19.
And (Allah rendered) patience as a help for getting reward.
20.
And (Allah caused) commanding goodness and forbiding to do evil for
the amendment and correction of society and the common folks
(public).
21.
And (Allah made) the kindness to parents as a protectional (shield) to His wrath
and displeasure.
22.
And Allah made joining and connecting with the kinship and cognation, the cause
of lengthening of life.
23.
And Allah made law of retaliation (revenge for homicide) as the security of blood
(from being shed).
24.
And Allah executed the vow performing as a medium for forgiveness.
25.
And (Allah rendered) the correct use of weights measure (units) a medium for
stoping from selling less (than actual).
26.
And (Allah rendered) prohibition from drinking wine the cause of taking distance
from contaminations (evils).
27.
And Allah made the prohibition to accuse someone of adultery a protection
(shield) for avoiding (His) curse.
28.
And (Allah made) refraining from theft for the sake of positiveness and affirmation
for modesty.
29.
And Allah prohibited polytheism for the sake of (bringing about) sincerety in (His)
adoration and worship.
30.
Certainly, an apostle has come to you from among yourselves; grievous to him is
your falling into distress, excessively solictious respecting you; to the believers
(he is) compassionate, merciful. So if you assay and recognise him you will find
he is my father not the father of your women and the brother of my cousin, (Ali
a.s) not that of your men. And how nice a relation I have to him. So he
propagated his prophetic (mission). He always used to turn his face from the
polytheists. And fought against them till he beat them up. He would invite people
towards Allah by wisdom, and beautiful admonition. He broke the idols and
scattered the aggregation of polytheists in a way that they ran away (from the
battle fields), so that finally the hidden secret of oneness of Allah became
manifested by him. And he made the logic of religion reach the ears ((of the
people) and settled down the foam of the camels of satan and turned the salogan
yelling of those devils silent. And downed the agents of hypocrisy and mutual
commitments of the infidels got dissolved till such time that, you (people) spoke
to a group of enlightened and modest men with the words of oneness of Allah
and sincerity.
31
You were on the edge of a fire ditch, and were a cup of drink and the morsal of a
greedy one and a firebrand of every hastey one and were being trampled on (by
other nations) and drank from the contaminated waters gathered over in ditches
and your energy (food) was (secured by) the leaves of trees and desert grass.
And for your abjectness and abasement you were always afraid that those
arround you might abduct you in the winking of an eye. So, Allah liberated you
(of these misfortunes) through my father Mohammed (SAW). Inspite of it that he
(SAW) was involved and at war against the intrepid and the hungry wolves of
Arab and the stubborns refractories of the people of the books (Jews and
Christians). Whenever his opponents would lit the fire of war, Allah extinguished
it to your benefit.
32.
Imam Hassan (AS) said, 'on the friday night I saw my mother (Fatima (as))
standing in her arch of prayer. She was continuously kneeling and performing
prostration till the dawn broke. I would hear her pray for the faithful men and
women, but she did not at all pray for herself. I said, 'Oh mother why did you not
pray for yourself like you prayed for others?' so she replied, 'Oh myOh my son, first thy
neighbour and there after your own house.'
33.
The Prophet (SAW) said to Fatima (AS) what is the thing which is a blessing for
woman?' She said that, 'she must not see a man (stranger and not intimate) and
a man must not see her.'
34.
One day a lady came to Fatima (AS) said 'I have a weak old mother who does
not know a few problems about her service (prayers). She has sent me towards
you to question you (about them). Thus Fatima answered her (questions). And
the number of her queries reached to ten and Fatima (AS) replied to all her
questions. Then she (the woman got a shamed because of the high number of
her questions. And said, 'Oh daughter of the Prophet (SAW), 'I do not put you to
more inconvinience than this.' Fatima (AS) said, 'Ask me what you do not know.
Have you ever seen a person who is one day hired to carry a heavy thing to the
roof top from ground for an amount (equal to) a thousand dinnars (nearly a
hundred thousand miskal (unit of weight) of gold) and he may feel himself tired.' She said 'No'. Fatima (AS) said, 'I have been hired by Allah to get a wages which
if the space between the earth and sky is filled up with pearls still (That wages)
would he more than it for each of the questions I may answer you. Therefore, I
deserve it that I must not feel tired exhausted.'
35.
Oh Allah! belittle me in my eyes and glorify and magnify Your station to me. And
inspire me (about) Your obedience and the practice which may cause Your
pleasure and the shunning and evading from things (matters) which are the
cause of Your wrath, oh the most merciful of all!
36.
Oh Allah! content me with the sustenence you have granted me. And till such
time that you keep me alive, hide me and make me sound and prosperous. And
forgive me and take pity upon me when I die. (During death process). Oh Allah!
do not help me in something that you have not predestined for me. And facilitate
the achievement of that thing which you have predestined for me.
37.
Oh Allah! bestow upon my parents and all those persons who have rights of their
blessings and beneficiences upon me, the best of Your rewards. Oh my Allah,
spare me the leisure and respite for the object for which You have created me.
And do not let me be busy and involved (absolutely) in my commitments. And do
not torment me when I ask forgivensess. And do not deprive me of what I yearn
and question you for.
38.
Underlying are the rhymes which Hazrat Zahra (AS) recited upon the mourning of
Prophet's (SAW) demise. The person who smells the sweet fragnance of the
grave of the Prophet (SAW) so what if he does not smell any other fragnance for
long times to come? Agonies and anguishes and griefs poured upon me in such
a way that had they poured upon days those would have turned into nights.
(bleak, dark and bewildering).
39.
The dust of sorrow covered the space of sky and the sun has faded and the
bright day turned bleak. The earth has become dark and gooomy after the death
of the Prophet (SAW) Woe! Alas! what the earth will have much of Jolting upon
being seperated and parted from him (SAW). It is meritorious and befitting that
the east and west of the world may weep upon the parting of Prophet (SAW) and
the persons of Muzzir tribe and all of they rest of the Yemen tribes shed tears.
And the great magnificient mountain of the existence and the hidden and covered
Kabaah (House of ALLAH) and its pillars should shed tears. Oh the terminator
and finaliser of the (series of) prophets! the light of whome is the source of
blessing for the worlds inhabitants, Be the salutation and blessings of Allah the
desender of Holy Quran upon you.
40
Following you (Prophet (SAW)) inequities (intrigues and revolts) took shape and
varient voices were raised so that if you were present and supervising (things)
all these differences and deviations would not have taken place. You set off (on
the journey of eternity) from among us and now our condition is like the earth
which becomes devoid of the beneficial rains. And your nation upset the order
and discipline of matters. So be a witness and do not let their matter get out of
your sight.
A QUIET FUNERAL
A QUIET FUNERAL
In the darkness of the jet-black night, when eyes were asleep and voices were silent, a Heavenly procession left Ali's house while carrying the Messenger of Allah's daughter to her final abode.
This was on the night of the third of Jamadi Al-Thani (the second), 11 A.H.
The heartbreaking procession moved towards an unknown location followed by a small number of devoted
ones...They were Ali, Hassan, Hussain, Zainab and Um Kulthum... Abu Dhar, Ammar, Miqdad, and Salman were
following them.
Where are the thousands who inhabited Medina?! One asks, and the answer came: Fatima (S.A.)
requested that they may not be present at her funeral!
The family and their friends hurry to bury Fatima... then they rush back to their own homes so that no
one would know where Fatima was buried!
In such a matter, the first start from Ahlul-Bayt set after the sun (the Prophet) and left everyone with
the only light of Imamate!
Here I was asked:
"What do you think about the end of the life of Fatima? What will be the position of those who oppresses
her in the hereafter!?"
I waved my hand to him...
So long... with no word...dead silence...So long!
But wait..can't you hear the Commander of the faithful...the known hero...Ali...Don't you realize that he
is crying? Yet, who would not cry for being separated from the Mistress of women? Listen to him, he is
speaking to the Prophet(S.A.W.):
"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 (S.A.W.)! My patience about your chosen (daughter) has
been exhauted 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 seperation. I laid you down in your
grave while your last breath had passed (when your head) between my neck and chest.
'Verily we areAllah's and verily unto Him shall we return.' (2:56)
Now the trust has been returned and what had been given has been taken back. My grief knows no
bounds, and my nights will remain sleepless till Allah chooses for me the house in which you are now
residing. Certainly your daughter would apprise you of the joining together of your Ummah (people) for
oppressing her. You ask her in detail and get all the news about the position. This happened when a long
time had not elapsed and your remembrance had not disappeared. My salam be on you both, the salam of
a grief stricken not of a disgusted or a hateful person; for if I go away, it is not because I am weary (of
you); and if I stay, it is not due to lack of belief in what Allah has promised the endurers."
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Failing Attempts
At sunrise people gathered to participate in Fatima's funeral, but they were informed that the darling of
Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) had been secretly buried during the night.
Meanwhile, Ali (A.S.) made the shapes of four fresh graves in Baqi' so as to conceal the location where
Fatima was buried. WhWhen the people entered the graveyard, they were confused as to which spot was
actually Lady Fatima Zahra's grave; the people turned towards each other and with feeling of guilt said:
"Our Prophet (S.A.W.) has not left behind but one daughter, yet she has died and was buried without our
participation in the funeral or the prayer rituals. We do not even realize the place where she has been
buried!"
Noticing that a revolt might be ignited because of the emotional atmosphere that event created, the
governing party announced:Select a group of Muslim women and ask them to dig these graves so that we may find Fatima and
perform prayers on her."
Yes! They attempted to execute the plan, violating Fatima's will and causing Ali's (A.S.) attempts to hide
the grave to lay veinly.
Have they forgotten Ali's sharp sword and his well-known courage! Did they really think that Ali would
remain indifferent to their outrageous actions up to the point of letting them dig Fatima's grave?!
Imam Ali (A.S.) did not fight back after the Prophet's (S.A.W.) death because he considered the Muslim's
unity and overall interests. Yet, this did not mean that he would ignore their villainous crimes against
Fatima even after her death. In other words, Ali(A.S.) was asked by the Prophet (S.A.W.) to have
patience, but only to a certain extent; when Ali(A.S.) recieved the news of the about to be executed
plot, he put on his fighting gear and rushed towards Baqi'. A man from among the people called out:
"This is Ali Ibn Abu Talib leveling his sword and saying:
'If anyone moves even a more stone from these graves, I shall strike even the "back of the last follower
of the unjust
People who realized Ali's seriousness, took his threats with complete belief that he would do just as he
said if anyone were to appose him. Yet, a man from the governing ones addressed Ali (A.S.) by saying:
"What is the matter, Abu Al-Hassan?! By Allah, we shall dig her grave out and perform prayers on her."
Ali (A.S.) then grabbed the man by his clothes, shook him and threw him to the ground and said:
"Son of the Sawada! I have abandoned my right to prevent people from forsaking their faith, but as
regards Fatima's grave, by Him in whose hand is my soul, if you and your followers attempt to do
anything to it, I will irrigate the ground with your blood!"
At this, Abu Bakr said:
"Abu Al-Hassan, I ask you by the right of Allah's Messenger, and by Him Who is above the Throne: leave
him alone and we will not do anything which you would not approve of..." Thus, until this day, the
location of Fatima Zahra's grave remains a secret.
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