Maimūnah (ميمونة)
Maimūnah (Arabic: ميمونة, Turkish: Meymûne) was the last of Prophet Muhammad’s wives. Born and raised within a respectable lineage, she was a sister to Ummu ʾl-Faẓl, the wife of al-ʿAbbās, thereby establishing direct relations with the Prophet Muhammad. Her life, matrimonial journey, and contributions are significant within Islamic history.
Etymology
The name Maimūnah derives from the Arabic root م-ي-ن (m-y-n), which implies blessings or favorable circumstances. The name itself translates to “blessed” or “fortunate,” reflecting the virtuous qualities often ascribed to her.
- Arabic: ميمونة
- Turkish: Meymûne
Historical Background
Maimūnah was a widow aged 51 when she married Prophet Muhammad. Despite the challenges of her age and social circumstances, her marriage to the Prophet symbolizes solidarity, compassion, and the fostering of strong familial bonds within the early Muslim community.
Marital Significance
Maimūnah’s marriage to Prophet Muhammad not only reflects personal companionship but also diplomatic and social alliances within the Muslim community. Her kinship with al-ʿAbbās further integrated the Prophet’s household with influential tribal affiliations.
Life After Prophet Muhammad
Maimūnah outlived Prophet Muhammad and continued her life with a sense of grace and devotion to the Muslim community. Remarkably, she passed away at the age of 81. She was buried on the very spot where she celebrated her marriage, a testament to her enduring connection to one of the most pivotal moments in her life.
Further Reading
To delve deeper into the life and significance of Maimūnah, consider the following scholarly works:
- W. Montgomery Watt’s “Muhammad: Prophet and Statesman”
- Karen Armstrong’s “Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet”
- Martin Lings’ “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources”
Key Takeaways
- Maimūnah was the last wife of Prophet Muhammad, married at the age of 51.
- Her name symbolizes blessings and favorable circumstances in Arabic.
- Maimūnah represents a bridging of tribal and familial alliances within early Islam.
- She lived for 30 years after the Prophet’s death and was buried at the location of her marriage celebration.
Conclusion
Maimūnah’s life and marital union with Prophet Muhammad hold significant lessons in solidarity, resilience, and the fabric of early Islamic society. Her story underscores the importance of kinship, mutual respect, and the intricate social networks within the Prophet’s life. Understanding her contributions provides a richer perspective on the history of Islamic culture and the Prophet’s household.
