Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA), the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), holds an unparalleled position in Islam. As Imam Reza (AS) stated, “The first thing God Almighty created was our souls,” referring to the souls of Ahl al-Bayt (AS), including Hazrat Zahra. This spirit is the same divine spirit breathed into humanity, as mentioned in the Holy Qur’an: “And I breathed into him from My spirit.”
Hazrat Fatima Zahra’s (SA) status is so elevated that she can be considered the center of creation. Archangel Gabriel’s inquiries about the “Ashab al-Kisa” (Companions of the Cloak) were met with God’s response: “Fatimah (SA) and her father, her husband, and her children (PBUT).” Faith itself depends on believing in Hazrat Zahra (SA).
The Prophet (PBUH) described Hazrat Zahra’s (AS) lofty position: “And as for my daughter Fatimah, she is Sayyidat Nisa’ al-‘Alamin” (the master of all women in this world and the hereafter). He showed unprecedented respect and honor to his beloved daughter, standing up in her presence, welcoming and greeting her, and kissing her hand.
Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) is known as “Muhadditha” (one spoken to by angels). This title stems from two explanations:
- Her communication with her mother, Hazrat Khadijah (SA), while in the womb.
- Archangel Gabriel’s visits and conversations with her, a privilege reserved for ‘Ulu al-‘Azm prophets.
Imam Ja’far Sadiq (AS) clarified: “Fatima, the daughter of the Messenger of God, was Muhadditha but not a prophet. Angels spoke to her as they did to Maryam, daughter of Imran.”
In ziyara-texts, we address Hazrat Zahra (SA) as “the very knowledgeable one to whom the angels spoke.” Following her footsteps allows us to understand Satan’s tricks and respond accordingly.
Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) is the mother of all humans, closer to them than their natural mothers. We address her children in ziyara-texts, saying, “May my parents be sacrificed for you,” indicating her elevated position.
The blessing of Hazrat Fatima Zahra’s (SA) being is a tremendous gift from God, deserving of gratitude and reverence. She serves as a role model in all aspects of life, from prayer to social and political activities.
Tasnim, a heavenly spring, was gifted to Hazrat Fatima (SA) by God Almighty. Only those who benefit from the fountain of Ahl al-Bayt’s (AS) knowledge and wisdom will benefit from this spring.
Surah Al-Kawthar’s revelation and the concept of “kawthar” (abundance) underscore Hazrat Fatima Zahra’s (SA) and her descendants’ status as embodiments of divine abundance.
By embracing Hazrat Fatima Zahra’s (SA) guidance, we can attain spiritual growth, wisdom, and closeness to God.
The author, Dr. Faezeh Azimzadeh Ardabili, is Faculty Member of the Imam Khomeini International University
