Asma bint Abi Bakr was a remarkable Sahaba. She was among the early converts to Islam. Furthermore, she was the daughter of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq. Consequently, she was also the sister of Aisha bint Abi Bakr. Most importantly, she was the wife of Az-Zubayr ibn Al-Awwam. She famously earned the title Dhat an-Nitaqayn. This title means “The Possessor of Two Belts.” Her story is truly inspiring.
Her Crucial Role in the Hijrah
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Medina. He and Abu Bakr hid in the Cave of Thawr. Young Asma bravely supplied them with food and water. She risked her own safety for Islam.
She once faced a confrontation from Abu Jahl. He demanded to know her father’s location. Asma courageously refused to give any information. This event highlights her incredible strength.
The Story of Her Two Belts
She needed to carry provisions to the cave. However, she had nothing to tie the food with. So, she ingeniously tore her belt in two. She used one part to tie the food container.
She used the other part to hold her waist. The Prophet (peace be upon him) praised her clever action. He then promised her two belts in Paradise. This is her beautiful nickname’s origin.
A Hadith narrated by her
Asma was known for her generosity and strong morals. She narrated several hadiths herself. One famous teaching from her emphasizes generosity.
Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to me, “Do not hoard; otherwise, Allah will withhold from you.”
وعن أسماء بنت أبي بكر الصديق رضي الله عنهما قالت: قال لى رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : “لا توكى فيوكى عليك”. ((متفق عليه)).
Riyad as-Salihin 558
Her Marriage and Life of Hardship
Asma bint Abi Bakr married Az-Zubayr ibn Al-Awwam. He was a extremely devoted companion of the Prophet. However, he possessed very little wealth at that time. Consequently, their married life began with immense difficulty.
Asma faithfully took on all domestic responsibilities herself. She famously cared for their horse and managed their small plot of land. She even prepared dough for bread and carried date stones on her head over a long distance. She performed these arduous tasks without any complaint.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) once saw her struggling. He therefore offered her a ride behind him on his animal. She, however, felt shy to travel with him. She later mentioned this kindness showed her immense strength. Her patience truly embodied the spirit of a believer.
A Mother’s Ultimate Test and Her Passing
Asma bint Abi Bakr lived an exceptionally long life. She consequently witnessed both the dawn of Islam and its later trials. Her most severe test arrived at the very end.
Her son, Abdullah ibn Az-Zubayr, led a courageous stand against tyranny. He was eventually martyred in Mecca. The ruler, Al-Hajjaj, then crucifies his body publicly.
The incredibly strong Asma, then old and blind, is brought to the scene. She does not weep or cry out. Instead, she speaks to her son’s body with unwavering faith. She reminds him of his righteous struggle and his impending reward in Paradise.
This heartbreaking event demonstrated her profound faith. Her soul could not remain long after this immense sacrifice. She passed away just a few days later, her faith completely unshaken.
Conclusion: A Role Model for All
So, who is Asma bint Abu Bakr? She was a heroine of faith. She was a pious Muslimah, a brave daughter and a supportive wife. Her story teaches us about courage, intelligence, and resilience.
We can all learn from her incredible example. Her legacy continues to inspire millions around the world.
