The First Female Martyr in Islam
Sumayyah bint Khayyat (RA) holds a unique and honored place in Islamic history as the first woman to embrace martyrdom for the sake of Islam. She is remembered as a symbol of courage, patience, and unshakable faith during one of the most difficult periods of early Islam.
Early Life and Acceptance of Islam
Sumayyah (RA) was a slave woman in Makkah. She was married to Yasir ibn Amir (RA), and they had a son named Ammar ibn Yasir (RA). The family belonged to the early Muslim community during the time when Islam was new and weak in Makkah.
When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) began preaching Islam, Sumayyah (RA), her husband Yasir (RA), and their son Ammar (RA) were among the first people to accept the message of Islam. They believed in the oneness of Allah and in the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) despite the dangers that surrounded them.
Severe Persecution in Makkah
The early Muslims, especially those who were poor or slaves, faced brutal torture from the leaders of Quraysh. Since Sumayyah (RA) and her family had no powerful tribe to protect them, they were severely persecuted.
They were tortured under the burning sun of Makkah. They were beaten, humiliated, and forced to renounce their faith. Yet Sumayyah (RA) remained firm and refused to deny Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would pass by them during their torture and say:
"Patience, O family of Yasir, for your promised place is Paradise."
These words strengthened their hearts.
Her Martyrdom
One of the cruelest enemies of Islam, Abu Jahl, became enraged by Sumayyah's steadfast faith. Despite being an elderly woman, she showed extraordinary courage and refused to insult the Prophet or abandon Islam.
In his anger and cruelty, Abu Jahl killed her with a spear, making her the first martyr (Shaheed) in Islam.
Her husband Yasir (RA) was also tortured to death shortly afterward. Their son Ammar (RA) survived but endured immense suffering.
Her Legacy and Importance
Sumayyah (RA) is honored as:
The first female martyr in Islam
One of the earliest believers
A symbol of strength and faith
A model of patience under oppression
Her sacrifice demonstrates that faith is more powerful than fear, and that true belief requires steadfastness even in the face of death.
Lessons from Her Life
From Sumayyah (RA), Muslims learn:
To stand firm in faith
To remain patient during hardship
To value belief more than worldly life
That women played a vital and courageous role in early Islam
Conclusion
The life of Sumayyah bint Khayyat (RA) is a powerful story of sacrifice and devotion. Though she was a weak and elderly woman in the eyes of society, in the sight of Allah she became one of the greatest heroes of Islam.
Her martyrdom shines as a reminder that truth and faith are worth every sacrifice.