Umm al-Banin: Mother of Al-Abbas – The Lionheart of Karbala

Occasion for presenting this book:

13 Jumada al-Thānī – Passing of Umm al-Banīn (peace be upon her)

Book Bibliographic Details:

Author: Syed Ali Jamal Ashraf

Translator: M S Rupani

Publisher: ‎ Jafari Propagation Centre India

Length: 326 Pages

Language: English

ISBN: 978 81 966259 2 4

About the Book:

The book, Umm al-Banin: Mother of Al-Abbas – The Lionheart of Karbala, authored by Syed Ali Jamal Ashraf, serves as an essential biographical and spiritual guide dedicated to the life of Lady Fatimah bint Hizam (known as Umm al-Banin, ‘Mother of the Sons’). The text meticulously chronicles her noble lineage, her marriage to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS), and her unwavering commitment to serving the Prophet’s household, particularly her dedication and profound respect for Imam Ali’s children from his first marriage, Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn (AS). The narrative emphasizes her exemplary character and the pivotal role she played in nurturing a home environment rooted in piety, courage, and unconditional love for the Ahl al-Bayt, establishing her as one of the most revered female figures in Islamic history.

The core of the book is dedicated to illustrating the profound spiritual virtues and ultimate sacrifice embodied by Umm al-Banin through her four sons, most notably Hazrat Abbas ibn Ali (AS), the revered standard-bearer of Imam Husayn (AS) at the Tragedy of Karbala. The author explores how Umm al-Banin’s teachings instilled in her sons the highest ideals of loyalty, faith, and martyrdom. Furthermore, the book details her exemplary composure and spiritual strength following the devastating events of Karbala, focusing on her powerful mourning and her role in preserving the legacy of the martyrs, thereby presenting her as a timeless model of faith and endurance for contemporary readers seeking to understand the ethical and spiritual foundations of the holy household.

About the Author:

Syed Ali Jamal Ashraf is a scholar and writer known for contributing to contemporary Islamic literature, particularly on the lives of the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet Muhammad). The book, often published by the Jafari Propagation Centre, serves as a comprehensive modern biographical account, detailing Lady Umm al-Banin’s noble lineage, her profound devotion to her husband Imam Ali (AS) and the children of Lady Fatimah (SA), and the immense virtue she demonstrated through the sacrifice of her four sons, most famously Hazrat Abbas (AS), in the Tragedy of Karbala.

Where to find it:

You can find the book at one of the online bookstores below:

• Hujjatbookshop
• Jafari Propagation Centre India