Author: shaikh Jawad Habib
Lady Zainab al-Kubra (S.A.), the revered daughter of Imam Ali (A.S.) and Lady Fatimah al-Zahra (S.A.), was born in Madinah in the year 5 or 6 AH. Her name, Zainab, was chosen by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.), which means “a fragrant and beautiful tree” or, according to another interpretation, “Zain Ab”, meaning “the adornment of her father.”
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.) named her following the divine revelation brought by Angel Jibreel. She was held in high esteem by the Prophet, who once remarked:
“Inform my followers, both present and future, of the virtues of this daughter of mine, for she resembles her grandmother Khadijah (S.A.).” (Source: Khasais al-Zainabiyyah by Allama Jazairi)
Titles of Lady Zainab (S.A.)
Due to her extraordinary personality, Lady Zainab (S.A.) is known by numerous titles, reflecting her traits of knowledge, courage, and sacrifice. Some of the prominent titles include:
- Aqilat Bani Hashim (The Noble Lady of Bani Hashim)
- Alimah Ghayr Mu’allamah (The Knowledgeable without being Taught)
- Na’ibat al-Zahra (The Deputy of al-Zahra)
- Sharikah al-Husain (The Partner of Husain)
- Abidat Aal-e-Ali (The Worshiper of the Family of Ali)
- Umm al-Masa’ib (Mother of Calamities)
- Fasihah wa Balighah (Eloquent and Articulate)
Each of these titles highlights a unique dimension of her personality and the vital role she played in preserving and conveying the truth of Islam.
Love for Her Father
Lady Zainab (S.A.) shared a deep bond with her father, Imam Ali (A.S.), and was an exemplary source of comfort and support for him. She was so beloved that Imam Ali (A.S.) could not bear her separation. Even after her marriage to Abdullah ibn Ja’far, her strong connection with her father and family remained intact.
Worship and Piety
Lady Zainab (S.A.) was deeply devoted to worship and never missed the nightly prayers of Tahajjud. Her devotion to Allah earned her the title of “Abidat Aal-e-Ali” (The Worshiper of the Family of Ali). Her worship and piety were a reflection of her profound spiritual connection with Allah.
Role in Karbala and Captivity
Lady Zainab (S.A.) played a pivotal role in the events of Karbala. She stood steadfast alongside her brother, Imam Husain (A.S.), in defense of truth. After the tragedy of Ashura on the 10th of Muharram, 61 AH, she led the caravan of captives and courageously confronted the oppressive regimes of Kufa and Damascus. Through her eloquent sermons, she exposed the tyrannical nature of Yazid’s rule and awakened the conscience of the people.
Mother of Calamities (Umm al-Masa’ib)
Lady Zainab (S.A.) is famously known as “Umm al-Masa’ib” (Mother of Calamities) due to the immense hardships she endured throughout her life. These included the demise of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.), the martyrdom of her mother, Lady Fatimah (S.A.), the struggles of her father, Imam Ali (A.S.), the poisoning of her brother, Imam Hasan (A.S.), the tragic events of Karbala, and her captivity in the aftermath.
Demise
Lady Zainab (S.A.) departed from this world in the year 63 AH and was laid to rest in Damascus (Syria). Her sacred shrine remains a beacon of devotion for the followers of Ahlul Bayt (A.S.).