Lady Fatemeh al-Zahra (SA): A Model of Altruism, Social Responsibility, and Spiritual Devotion

Introduction

The 20th of Jumada al-Thani marks the blessed birth anniversary of Lady Fatemeh al-Zahra (peace be upon her), the beloved daughter of Prophet Mohammad (peace and blessings be upon him). This day is a significant occasion for Muslims around the world, as it reminds us of her unparalleled virtues, her devotion to Allah, and her role as an exemplary figure for humanity. Lady Fatemeh’s life is a source of inspiration, offering timeless lessons in faith, humility, and service to others.

One night, Lady Fatemeh al-Zahra (peace be upon her) stood in prayer at her place of worship until dawn, praying for many believers by mentioning their names. However, she did not pray for herself. One of her children, Imam Hasan al-Mojtaba (peace be upon him), who witnessed this, asked her:

يا أُمَّاهْ! لِمَ لا تَدْعِيْنَ لنَفْسِكِ كَمَا تَدْعِيْنَ لِغَيْرِكِ؟ فَقَالَتْ لَهُ: يَا بُنَّيَّ الْجَارَ ثُمَّ الدَّارُ.

“O Mother, why do you not pray for yourself as you pray for others?” Imam Hasan Mojtaba (peace be upon him) asked. Lady Fatemeh (peace be upon her) replied, “O my dear son, the neighbour first, and then the house.” (Al-Ilal al-Shara’i, Vol. 1, p. 182)

The Timeless Wisdom of Lady Fatemeh (SA)

The words and actions of the Ahlul Bayt (the family of the Prophet) carry profound wisdom, offering moral and spiritual guidance for humanity. Lady Fatemeh’s emphasis on prioritising others over oneself reflects a deeply rooted principle in Islam: selflessness and community care. Her behaviour serves as a model for individuals and societies seeking to embody Islamic ethics.

For Muslims, claiming allegiance to the Ahlul Bayt is not sufficient. True faith lies in following their example in action, embodying their teachings in everyday life. This is especially significant for Muslims living in the West, where practising faith and maintaining Islamic identity requires conscious effort.

Lessons From This Hadith for Adolescents and Youth

1. The Value of Respectful Questioning:

Imam Hasan’s respectful inquiry teaches young people the importance of seeking understanding from their parents. Asking thoughtful questions with respect helps bridge generational gaps and fosters mutual understanding. It is a reminder for Muslim youth in the West to maintain this culture of respect, avoiding influences that devalue parental relationships.

2. Upholding Respect for Parents:

Imam Hasan’s manner of addressing his mother reflects the highest level of respect. Muslim youth should strive to emulate this, resisting the pervasive cultural norms in the West that often diminish the sanctity of parental respect. Recognising and honouring one’s parents is a cornerstone of Islamic values.

3. Practising Selflessness:

Young people can learn from Lady Fatemeh’s selflessness to care for others—family, friends, and society—before focusing on their own needs. This mindset can help Muslim youth navigate the challenges of living in individualistic cultures by reinforcing the importance of community welfare.

Lessons From This Hadith for Parents

1. Caring for Neighbours:

Lady Fatemeh’s teaching highlights the Islamic obligation to care for one’s neighbours. Parents should instil in their families a sense of empathy and responsibility towards neighbours, regardless of their faith or background. Acts of kindness and patience with neighbours set an example for children and strengthen community bonds.

2. Answering Children with Patience and Wisdom

Parents must follow Lady Fatemeh’s example in responding to children’s questions with patience and respect. Providing thoughtful answers encourages children to develop critical thinking and strengthens their connection to Islamic principles.

3. You Are on Your Children’s Radar:

Children observe their parents closely, learning more from actions than words. If parents preach kindness, selflessness, or generosity, they must truly demonstrate these values in their behaviour and actions. The Quran warns against hypocrisy:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِيْنَ آمَنُوا لِمَ تَقُولُونَ مَا لَا تَفْعَلُونَ كَبُرَ مَقْتًا عِنْدَ اللَّهِ أَنْ تَقُولُوا مَا لَا تَفْعَلُونَ .

“O you who believe, why do you say what you do not do? Most hateful it is to Allah that you say what you do not do.” (Surah As-Saff, 61:2-3)

4. Respecting Children:

Lady Fatemeh’s gentle and respectful manner in addressing her son serves as a reminder for parents to treat their children with dignity. Respect fosters mutual love and trust, enabling children to embrace their parents’ guidance wholeheartedly.

Lessons From This Hadith for Religious Leaders and Imams

1. Teaching Social Responsibility:

Religious leaders must emphasise the importance of community care and selflessness, as exemplified by Lady Fatemeh. They should remind their congregations that Islam is not limited to personal worship but extends to fulfilling one’s responsibilities towards others.

2. Encouraging Questions:

Imams should create an environment where individuals feel comfortable asking questions. Dialogue fosters deeper understanding and avoids the pitfalls of superficial faith. Imam Hasan’s question shows that respectful inquiry is integral to learning.

3. Promoting Action Over Words:

Leaders must remind their communities of the importance of aligning words with deeds, as hypocrisy undermines the essence of faith. Through their sermons and personal conduct, they should model sincerity and integrity.