As Muharram begins, our thoughts turn to the powerful story of Karbala. While Imam Hussain (RA) is remembered for his courage and sacrifice, we must also remember the incredible strength of the women who stood by him, especially his sister, Lady Zainab (RA).
Her resilience in the face of immense loss, injustice and grief remains one of the most powerful examples of strength in Islamic history. During the battle of Karbala, Lady Zainab (RA) showed that true courage also lies in patience, dignity and unwavering faith.
She remained firm through the darkest of times by turning sorrow into strength and grief into a lasting message. Her voice became the voice of Karbala as she carried its legacy forward with grace and conviction.
Today, her story continues to inspire Muslims across the world. It reminds us that strength comes in many forms, and that standing firm in faith can be just as powerful as any sword.
Who Was Lady Zainab (RA)?
Lady Zainab (RA) was the beloved granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the daughter of Fatimah (RA) and Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), and the sister of Imam Hussain (RA). She was raised in a home filled with love, knowledge and faith.
From a young age, she showed remarkable intelligence and a strong sense of duty. Guided by the teachings of the Prophet (peace be upon him), she grew into a woman of immense spiritual strength and dignity.
From his earliest days, Imam Hussain (RA) was surrounded by love, faith, and wisdom. Raised in a household that lived and breathed the teachings of Islam, Imam Hussain (RA) grew up with a strong sense of purpose. He was gentle in character, rich in knowledge, and deeply committed to the Quran and Sunnah. He witnessed the Prophet’s mercy first-hand and carried those teachings in his heart throughout his life.
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Her Role in the Journey to Karbala
When Imam Hussain (RA) began his journey to Karbala, Lady Zainab (RA) chose to go with him, fully aware of the hardship that lay ahead. She did not stand in the background; she stood beside him to offer strength and support every step of the way.
At Karbala, she endured the heartbreaking loss of her family members but remained steadfast in her faith. Her courage only grew, and her voice became one of truth, honour and resilience in the face of immense pain.
Even as a captive, taken alongside the women and children, she carried herself with courage. In the court of Yazid, she didn’t speak as someone broken, but as a powerful voice of truth. Her courageous speech is still remembered as one of the most fearless moments in history. It showed her incredible strength and unshakable faith.
Lady Zainab (RA): A Legacy of Strength, Faith and Truth
Lady Zainab (RA) transformed sorrow into strength and pain into purpose. Her voice became the legacy of Karbala that reached far beyond the battlefield and inspired hearts for generations.
As mentioned in the Quran:
“Do not think of those who are killed in the way of Allah as dead. Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, receiving provision.” — Surah Aal-Imran, (3:169)
The women of Karbala, especially Lady Zainab (RA), did not just survive the tragedy; they carried its message to the world. And through that message, we are reminded: to remain strong, speak out against injustice, and uphold truth even when the world turns against us.
Her Legacy and the Lessons We Carry Today
Lady Zainab (RA) was not just a figure in history; she was a symbol of strength, courage and unshakable faith. When the world around her was filled with pain and loss, she stood tall. Her voice became the voice of Karbala to carry its message forward with grace and conviction.
For both women and men, her legacy teaches us:
- Stay strong when things get tough
- Lead with humility and purpose
- Speak the truth with courage
- Let faith guide your actions
Her story does not end in history; it continues through us. Every day, we have a chance to reflect on her values in our own lives. Giving in charity is one such way. Whether it is donating to emergency appeals or offering your Zakat here in the UK, each act of giving helps those in need and honours the spirit of justice and compassion she lived by.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Sahih Muslim)
Charity as a Tribute to Karbala’s Heroes
In the spirit of Karbala, we remember not just the bravery of Lady Zainab (RA), but also the voices she raised for the oppressed. Today, her legacy lives on through action by standing with those who face hardship across the world.
From the families in Palestine enduring unimaginable challenges, to children without access to clean water, and mothers struggling to feed their little ones, now is the time to respond with compassion.
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears; in every ear there are a hundred grains.” — Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261)
What You Can Do
At United Muslims, we believe the best way to honour Karbala is through action. Here’s how you can help:
- Give your Zakat to support orphans, widows, and those who need it most
- Donate to our Palestine charity efforts to deliver life-saving aid
- Support clean water projects to bring safe water to families
- Contribute to feeding programmes for those experiencing hunger
- Make a Sadaqah Jariyah donation in honour of the brave women of Islam
- Offer an Aqiqah donation to share the joy of new life with those in need
- Use our Zakat Calculator to plan your giving with sincerity
- Support education and empowerment initiatives for women and girls
Even the smallest act, when done with sincerity, carries weight in the eyes of Allah.
Bringing hope through small acts of kindness—a meal, a helping hand, or a gift can light up a child’s day.
Carrying Her Light Forward
Lady Zainab (RA) stood as a guiding light during one of the most painful chapters in Islamic history. Her courage, unshakable faith and powerful voice turned grief into a legacy that continues to inspire.
As we reflect on this Muharram, we remember her not just as the sister of Imam Hussain (RA), but as a woman who stood tall with dignity and truth when it mattered most.
Whether it is through Zakat, food donations or supporting a local cause, every act of giving keeps her legacy alive.
Let her story inspire us to speak up, hold on to our values, and give with an open heart.
