In Shia Islam, there are many joyous and sorrowful occasions, but one of the most celebrated is the marriage between Imam Ali (as) and Lady Fatima (sa). Their union is a divine match that symbolizes love, sacrifice, and devotion to Allah (swt).
Let’s explore the story behind their marriage, the mahr of Fatima (sa), and how their love continues to inspire us.
Imam Ali’s (as) Proposal
When several companions of the Prophet (saww) asked for Lady Fatima’s (sa) hand in marriage, their requests refused. However, Imam Ali (as), encouraged by his close relationship with Rasoolallah (saww), finally approached him to ask for her hand. Although he was initially shy, the Prophet (saww) welcomed his proposal with joy.
“Welcome! Allah (swt) has ordered me to marry my daughter to you,” the Prophet (saww) said (Kanz al-Ummal, v.6), pleased that Imam Ali (as) sought to marry his daughter.
When did Imam Ali (as) and Sayyida Fatima (sa) get married?
The wedding took place on the 1st of Dhul Hijjah, 2 AH. This was 10 months after their engagement.
The Prophet (saww) asked his wife, Umm Salamah, to take Lady Fatima (sa) to Imam Ali’s (as) home. The Prophet (saww) recited the nikkah ceremony for the heavenly couple.
What was Lady Fatima’s (sa) mahr?
According to many narrations, Lady Fatima’s (sa) mahr (dowry) was between 400 and 500 dirhams.
When The Prophet (saww) asked Imam Ali (as) if he had anything to pay for Sayyida Fatima’s (sa) mahr (dowry), Imam Ali (as) said he had a sword, armour, and a horse.
Rasoolallah (saww) advised him to sell his armour and use the money as mahr.
This simple yet meaningful exchange teaches us that true love and devotion are not measured by material wealth but by the sacrifices one makes for the sake of Allah (swt). The mahr of Fatima was thus fulfilled through this act of sacrifice, symbolizing the purity and selflessness of their relationship.
Honouring their marriage
Their marriage is a testament to the strength of faith, the beauty of simplicity, and the power of generosity.
Honour this sacred union by giving in their name: offer your Qurbani, care for an orphan, or support a widow’s future.
May their example inspire our actions.
