Majlis-e-Wafat Janab-e-Ummul Baneen (s.a.) - 2 - (URDU)- by Maulana Syed

Ummul Banīn (AS), whose real name was Fatimah bint Hizam al-Kilabiyyah, is a highly revered figure in Islamic history, particularly in the Shia tradition. She is best known as the wife of Imam Ali (AS) and the mother of Hazrat Abbas (AS), the standard-bearer of Imam Husayn (AS) in the tragedy of Karbala. Her life and sacrifices are deeply respected, and her death is commemorated as a time of mourning, particularly for her connection to the Ahl al-Bayt.
Life of Ummul Banīn
Ummul Banīn was born into a noble and courageous Arab tribe, Banu Kilab, known for its valor and loyalty. After the martyrdom of Lady Fatimah al-Zahra (AS), Imam Ali (AS) married her, and she became a dedicated and loving figure within the family of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The name "Ummul Banīn" means "Mother of Sons," and she lived up to this name by raising four sons-Hazrat Abbas (AS), Abdullah, Ja'far, and Uthman-all of whom became martyrs in Karbala. Despite being their biological mother, she instilled in them a deep loyalty to Imam Husayn (AS) and the family of the Prophet (PBUH).
Sacrifices in Karbala
Ummul Banīn’s greatest legacy is her sacrifice in the Battle of Karbala. On the day of Ashura, all her sons attained martyrdom while supporting Imam Husayn (AS) in his struggle for justice and truth.
Hazrat Abbas (AS), her eldest son, was the most prominent among them. Known for his bravery, loyalty, and love for Imam Husayn (AS), he was martyred while fetching water for the thirsty children of the camp.
Despite the heartbreaking loss of her sons, Ummul Banīn never wavered in her love and loyalty for Imam Husayn (AS). Her grief was centered on the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (AS) more than her own children, reflecting her deep faith and understanding of the Imam's divine mission.
Her Role After Karbala
After the tragedy of Karbala, Ummul Banīn became a symbol of patience and fortitude. She mourned her sons but also became an unwavering supporter of the Ahl al-Bayt. She is reported to have recited moving elegies (lamentations) for her sons and Imam Husayn (AS), which deeply impacted the people of Madinah and conveyed the tragedy of Karbala to the world.
Her mourning was not just an expression of grief but also a means of spreading awareness about the injustices committed against the family of the Prophet (PBUH). She played a vital role in preserving the memory of Karbala and highlighting the sacrifices of Imam Husayn (AS) and his loyal companions.
Her Death
Ummul Banīn passed away on 13th Jumada al-Thani, though the exact year is not definitively recorded. Her death is commemorated as a day of mourning among Shia Muslims, honoring her sacrifices, patience, and role in supporting the mission of Imam Husayn (AS). She is buried in the Jannat al-Baqi cemetery in Madinah, alongside other revered figures of the Ahl al-Bayt.
Legacy of Ummul Banīn
Ummul Banīn (AS) remains an inspiring figure for believers due to her selflessness, loyalty, and unwavering support for the Ahl al-Bayt. She teaches us:
The importance of sacrifice for the sake of truth and justice.
The value of patience and fortitude in the face of immense personal loss.
The need to prioritize the mission of Islam over personal interests.
Her love for Imam Husayn (AS) and her unparalleled sacrifice have immortalized her as a revered mother and a role model for those who seek to uphold faith, truth, and loyalty.