Hazrat Fatima al-Zahra: The Radiant Daughter of the Prophet

Born in Mecca on the 20th of Jamadi al-Thani in 615, five years after the Prophet’s declaration of prophethood, her birth was considered a divine blessing. She was named "Fatima," which, according to Bihar al-Anwar (vol. 43), means "the one who weans others from ignorance," while "al-Zahra" signifies her radiance and pure nature.

From her earliest years, Hazrat Fatima (peace be upon her) stood out for her piety and wisdom. After the passing of her mother, Lady Khadija (peace be upon her), Fatima became her father’s closest confidante, earning the title "Umm Abiha" (the mother of her father). She supported the Prophet through the hardships of his mission to convey the message of Islam, including the boycott in the Valley of Abu Talib and the social ostracism faced by the early Muslims. These events are chronicled in works such as Sahih al-Kafi (vol. 1) by Abu Abdullah Muhammad ibn Isma'il al-Bukhari and Kitab al-Irshad by Shaykh al-Mufid.

Her marriage to Imam Ali (peace be upon him), described in Bihar al-Anwar and Al-Amali by Shaykh al-Saduq, symbolized the union of the most virtuous in the Muslim community. Their household exemplified simplicity, humility, and devotion. Together, they raised their children Imam Hasan, Imam Husayn, Lady Zaynab, and Umm Kulthum (peace be upon them), whose lives were pivotal in safeguarding and spreading Islam’s core teachings.

Hazrat Fatima’s eloquence and intellect were evident in the famous Fadak Sermon, a profound speech delivered after the Prophet’s demise to assert her rightful inheritance of the land of Fadak. The sermon, recorded in Balaghat al-Nisa and Kitab al-Ihtijaj by Tabarsi, highlights her deep understanding of the Quran and her courage in standing against oppression. This pivotal moment emphasizes her role in defending Imam Ali’s leadership and the continuation of the Prophet’s mission.

The injustices Fatima (peace be upon her) faced after the Prophet’s demise, as detailed in Shia sources like Bihar al-Anwar (vol. 43) and Al-Kafi (vol. 8), reflect her unwavering commitment to justice. The events leading to her tragic demise, including the attack on her home, are deeply mourned in Shia history. Fatima passed away on the 3rd of Jamadi al-Thani, just a few months after her father, at the young age of 18 or 28, according to differing accounts. Her secret burial, as per her will, remains an enduring symbol of the trials she endured.

Hazrat Fatima’s legacy as the Sayyidat Nisa al-Alamin (Leader of the Women of the Worlds) is celebrated in both Sunni and Shia traditions. Her profound virtues and sacrifices inspire Muslims to uphold the values of justice, devotion, and resilience. Her life and teachings, preserved in works like Nahj al-Balagha and Tuhaf al-Uqool, continue to guide generations in their spiritual and moral journeys.