Fatimah, Hazrat-i Masumah
Fatimah, Hazrat-i Masumah (Arabic: فاطمة، حضرت معصومة, Turkish: Fatıma, Hazret-i Masume), also known affectionately as Bibi Fatimah, was the daughter of the seventh Shii Imam, Musa al-Kazim, and the sister of the eighth Imam, Ali al-Rida. She holds a highly venerated place in Islamic tradition, particularly within the Shia community.
Early Life and Family Background
Born into the illustrious lineage of the Prophet Muhammad, Hazrat-i Masumah belonged to a family that has been revered by Shia Muslims for their piety, knowledge, and leadership. Her father, Musa al-Kazim, was known for his asceticism and dedication to Islam. Her brother, Ali al-Rida, also played a central role in Islamic scholarship and leadership as the eighth Imam.
Journey and Demise
During her journey to visit her brother Ali al-Rida in Tus (present-day Mashhad), Hazrat-i Masumah fell ill and passed away in Qom. The exact year of her passing is not definitively known but is generally thought to be 201 AH/816 CE.
Shrine and Pilgrimage
Her burial site in Qom soon became a place of pilgrimage. Revered by Shia Muslims, it is considered the second most important shrine in Iran after the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. The shrine not only holds religious significance but also has sociocultural and educational importance, attracting thousands of devotees yearly.
Etymology and Translations
- Hazrat-i Masumah: “Hazrat” is an honorific title meaning “His/Her Excellency” or “Venerable.” “Masumah” means “the Innocent” in Arabic.
- Turkish: Fatıma, Hazret-i Masume
- Arabic: فاطمة، حضرت معصومة
Further Studies
To explore more about Hazrat-i Masumah and Shia traditions in general, consult the following books:
- The Life of Fatimah, Daughter of the Prophet Muhammad by Asher Khalidi
- Manifestations of Sainthood in the Western Indian Ocean by William C. Chittick
- Shi’ism: A Religion of Protest by Hamid Dabashi
Takeaways
- Cultural Significance: Hazrat-i Masumah’s shrine in Qom serves as a focal point for Shia religious activity.
- Historical Importance: Her lineage ties her directly to the Prophet Muhammad, making her an essential figure in Shia history.
- Pilgrimage Site: Qom remains a significant city because of her interment there.
Conclusion
Hazrat-i Masumah is a revered figure in Shia Islam, remembered for her piety and her direct familial lineage to foundational Islamic figures. Her shrine continues to symbolize spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and offers an essential glimpse into the heart of Shia tradition in Iran.
