*** Zaynab bint Jahsh ( زينب بنت جحش رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا ) ***

Early Life and Background :

Family and Tribe :

Zaynab was born into the Asad clan of the Quraysh tribe in Mecca. Her father, Jahsh ibn Riyab, was a respected figure, and her mother, Umaymah bint Abd al-Muttalib, was an aunt of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), making Zaynab a close relative of the Prophet.

Strong Character :

Zaynab was known for her strength, independence, and deep piety, traits that earned her respect in the Muslim community.

Her First Marriage :

Marriage to Zayd ibn Harithah :

Initially, Zaynab was married to Zayd ibn Harithah (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ), the freed slave and adopted son of the Prophet. This marriage was encouraged by the Prophet to emphasize equality, showing that social status should not be a barrier in marriage. Despite their best efforts, the marriage did not succeed due to personal differences, and they eventually divorced. This event held significance in Islamic teachings, as it demonstrated that compatibility in marriage transcends social and familial backgrounds.

Marriage to the Prophet :

Divine Command :

After Zaynab’s divorce from Zayd, Allah revealed a commandment for the Prophet to marry her, abolishing the pre-Islamic custom that considered an adopted son equal to a biological son. This marriage highlighted that adoption does not create a biological relationship, changing social norms and reinforcing that family bonds are defined by biological or marital ties. The verse from the Quran that commanded the Prophet’s marriage to Zaynab is- "When Zayd had dissolved his marriage with her, We gave her to you in marriage, so that in the future there may be no difficulty regarding the marriages of the wives of their adopted sons, if they dissolve their marriage with them." (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:37)

The Wedding Feast :

The marriage of Zaynab to the Prophet was celebrated with a feast, marking it as a joyous occasion. This wedding also set a precedent for simplicity and generosity in Islamic marriage celebrations.

Her Life and Contributions :

Charity and Generosity : Zaynab was known for her charitable nature, often donating much of her wealth to the poor and needy. She would even make and sell handicrafts, using the proceeds to help the less fortunate. Her dedication to charity earned her the reputation as one of the most generous wives of the Prophet.

Deep Piety :

Zaynab was devoted to worship, spending long hours in prayer and remembrance of Allah. Her spirituality and adherence to Islamic teachings made her an influential figure among the wives of the Prophet and an example to the wider Muslim community.

Intelligence and Strong Will :

Zaynab was known for her intelligence and firm will, qualities that made her a respected voice within the Prophet’s household. She sometimes held strong opinions but was deeply committed to supporting the Prophet and the message of Islam.

Death and Legacy :

Passing :

Zaynab passed away during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) in 20 AH (around 641 CE). She was the first of the Prophet's wives to pass away after his death, and her funeral was attended by many members of the community.

Burial :

She was laid to rest in Jannat al-Baqi in Medina, a cemetery where many of the Prophet’s family and companions were also buried.
Zaynab bint Jahsh (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا) is remembered for her devotion, generosity, and strength of character. Her life demonstrated the values of compassion, independence, and resilience, and her legacy continues to inspire Muslims to embody these qualities in their own lives. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of social justice, compassion for the needy, and steadfast faith.