Ramla bint Abi Sufyan
Ramla bint Abi Sufyan (d. 664), better known as Umm Habiba, was a notable Meccan aristocrat and one of the respected wives of the Prophet Muhammad.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: رمْلة بنتِ أبي سفيان (Ramla bint Abi Sufyan)
- Turkish: Ebu Süfyan’ın Kızı Ramla
Early Life
Ramla was born into the influential Umayyad family, one of the noble tribes of Mecca. Her father, Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, was a prominent figure known for his leadership among the Quraish tribe.
Emigration to Abyssinia
Ramla initially embraced Islam with her first husband, Ubaydullah ibn Jahsh. To escape persecution in Mecca, the couple emigrated to Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia). While in Abyssinia, her husband converted to Christianity and subsequently died, leaving Ramla in a vulnerable position as a widow in a foreign land.
Marriage to the Prophet Muhammad
Hearing of her plight, the Prophet Muhammad proposed marriage to Ramla. The Negus, the Christian ruler of Abyssinia, acted as an intermediary. Not only did he convey the proposal, but he also paid her dowry. This union took place in 628 CE and symbolized a strong link between the Prophet and one of Mecca’s most influential families.
Role in Islamic History
As Umm Habiba, she is one of the “Mothers of the Believers,” a term used to describe the wives of the Prophet Muhammad. She played a vital role both as a family member and as a notable character in early Islamic history, known for her piety and resilience.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Kathir
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
- “Companions of The Prophet” by Mahmud Mustafa
Takeaways and Conclusion
Ramla bint Abi Sufyan, or Umm Habiba, is a profound example of dedication, resilience, and faith. Her movement from Mecca to Abyssinia, her experiences as a widow, and her subsequent marriage to the Prophet Muhammad offer valuable lessons in loyalty and strength.
Expand Your Knowledge
For those interested in delving deeper into the life of Umm Habiba and the contextual vista of early Islam, the suggested readings offer comprehensive insights.
This dictionary entry aims to provide an in-depth look at Ramla bint Abi Sufyan’s life, illustrating her important role in Islamic history.
