Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam Biography, Achievements & Death

Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam

Who Is Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam?

Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam was an important figure in early Islamic history. He came from the Quraysh tribe, specifically the Asad clan.

His full lineage is Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam ibn Khuwaylid ibn Asad ibn Abd al-Uzza ibn Qusayy ibn Kilab. Known as Abu Abdullah, he was a close cousin of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and one of the ten companions promised paradise.

Al-Zubayr married Asma bint Abi Bakr (may Allah be pleased with them both) and was one of the earliest converts to Islam, being the seventh person to embrace the faith at age 15.

Al-Zubayr’s Upbringing

Al-Zubayr’s mother, Safiyyah bint Abd al-Muttalib (may Allah be pleased with her), was strict with him during his childhood. People thought she didn’t care for him, but she wanted to raise him as a strong and brave warrior.

Raised in the household of Al-Arqam, Al-Zubayr once heard a rumor that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had been killed.

He quickly grabbed his sword to confirm the news and vowed to fight the entire Quraysh tribe if necessary. He later found the Prophet (peace be upon him) and was praised for his bravery.

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Al-Zubayr’s Role in Jihad

Al-Zubayr (may Allah be pleased with him) was known for his bravery in battle. Some of his notable actions include:

  • After the Battle of Uhud: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sent Al-Zubayr and Abu Bakr to lead a group of seventy men to follow the retreating Quraysh forces, creating the impression of a large Muslim army and forcing the Quraysh to retreat.
  • Battle of Yarmouk: During this battle, Al-Zubayr saw that the Muslims were exhausted. He shouted “Allahu Akbar” and charged the Byzantine army, breaking their lines and boosting the morale of the Muslim soldiers.
  • Conquest of Egypt: When Amr ibn al-As requested reinforcements, Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) sent Al-Zubayr along with two other warriors. They were considered as valuable as a thousand men each.

Glad Tidings of Martyrdom

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned Al-Zubayr among those honored with the status of martyrdom. This was a significant honor as he was one of the few promised paradise.

Testimony of Uthman ibn Affan

When Uthman ibn Affan (may Allah be pleased with him) was ill and could not perform Hajj, he considered appointing a successor. He mentioned that although he was not sure if Al-Zubayr was the best choice, he was certainly the most beloved to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Angels on the Day of Badr

On the Day of Badr, angels were seen fighting alongside the Muslims, wearing yellow turbans similar to the one worn by Al-Zubayr (may Allah be pleased with him). This was a sign of his honor and important role in the battle.

Martyrdom of Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam

In the Battle of the Camel, Ali reminded Al-Zubayr of a hadith where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said Al-Zubayr would fight against him in a future conflict. Upon recalling this, Al-Zubayr chose to leave the fight. Sadly, he was martyred by some individuals while trying to withdraw from the battle.