She was Fatima bint Hizam al-Kilabiyyah, wife of Imam Ali (as) and mother of Hazrat Abbas (as) and his three brothers. She is remembered for her loyalty, faith, and devotion to the Ahlulbayt (as).
In every era, Allah (swt) blesses the Ummah with examples of unwavering faith.
Among these noble figures is Ummul Baneen (sa) — the wife of Imam Ali (as) and the mother of four sons whose devotion shaped the history of Islam.
Her steadfastness reflects the Qur’anic teaching:
“Allah loves patient people.” (3:146)
Her life reminds us that loyalty, compassion, and sacrifice strengthen our faith and bring communities together.
Who Was Ummul Baneen?
Ummul Baneen (sa), born Fatima bint Hizam, came from the noble Banu Kilab tribe. (WikiShia)
She married Imam Ali (as) after the passing of Sayyida Fatima Al-Zahra (sa). Together, they had four sons—Abbas, Abd Allah, Ja’far, and Uthman—each of whom was martyred in Karbala.
To learn more about her noble son, you can read our reflection on Hazrat Abbas (as) and his legacy of courage and faith.
Her profound loyalty to the Ahlulbayt (as) earned her the title “Mother of the Sons.”
She remains a symbol of devotion, resilience, and sacrifice for the cause of Islam.
Loyalty Rooted in Faith
Ummul Baneen (sa) embodied a loyalty that rose above personal ties. It was loyalty anchored in deep faith and love for the Ahlulbayt (as).
When she entered the household of Imam Ali (as), she gently asked not to be called by her given name, Fatima — out of compassion for his children, who still mourned their mother, Lady Fatima (sa).
Her heart belonged entirely to the family of the Prophet (saww).
She raised her sons to stand beside Imam Hussain (as), teaching them that loyalty to truth requires courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion.
Her Sacrifice: Strength in Sorrow
The strength of Ummul Baneen (sa)’s heart was extraordinary.
Her sacrifice was not only in losing her four sons, but in offering them willingly for the cause of justice and truth.
Each of her sons was raised with the values of honour, bravery, and faith — prepared to defend Imam Hussain (as) without hesitation.
Imam Ali (as) is reported to have said:
“Surely, Allah (swt) has chosen for us followers (Shias), who assist us and are happy at our happiness and are sad in our sadness.” (Ghurar al-Hikam, v.1 p.135)
Ummul Baneen (sa) lived these words. Her grief was never centred on herself, but on the suffering of the Ahlulbayt (as).
Her sacrifice continues to inspire generations with its depth and sincerity.
Carrying Her Legacy Forward
The story of Ummul Baneen (sa) echoes through every remembrance of Karbala.
Her loyalty and sacrifice remind us that faith is demonstrated through service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to truth.
At The Zahra Trust, these same values guide our mission to uplift lives with dignity, compassion, and love for the Ahlulbayt (as).
Ummul Baneen (sa) teaches us that devotion is shown through loyalty, sacrifice, and deep love for the Ahlulbayt (as).
Her legacy continues to shine as a source of strength for all who seek to grow in faith and compassion.
Share this reflection to honour her memory and inspire others to live with loyalty and love.
FAQ
All four of her sons were martyred in Karbala — a sacrifice she accepted with deep faith and patience.
Her story teaches loyalty to truth, love for the Ahlulbayt (as), and strength through sacrifice.
Through remembrance gatherings, poetry, and reflections on her role in the mission of Imam Hussain (as).
