How Did Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam Died?

Background about the Battle of the Camel

During the turbulent Battle of the Camel, when the ranks began to break and people fled in fear and confusion, two of the Prophet’s most loyal companions — Talhah and Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam — stood at the heart of the struggle.

Amidst the chaos, Al-Zubayr decided to withdraw from the battlefield, distancing himself from the violence. As he passed by the camp of Al-Ahnaf ibn Qays, his presence did not go unnoticed.

Amr ibn Jurmuz, Who Killed Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam

When Al-Ahnaf was informed that Al-Zubayr had passed nearby, he observed and remarked, “By Allah, this is no ordinary man,” recognizing the gravity of the situation. He turned to those around him and asked, “Who will follow him and bring us news?” A man named ‘Amr ibn Jurmuz volunteered, replying, “I will”. Without delay, he set off in pursuit of Al-Zubayr.

Upon catching up to him, Ibn Jurmuz was met with the keen eye of Al-Zubayr, a man known for his intensity and quick discernment. Al-Zubayr turned and asked sharply, “What is behind you?” Ibn Jurmuz replied calmly, “I only wanted to ask you something”. Alongside Al-Zubayr was a young servant named ‘Atiyyah, who immediately grew suspicious of the man. He whispered to Al-Zubayr, warning him, “He is prepared for something”. But Al-Zubayr, perhaps burdened by the emotional weight of recent events and his own decision to leave the battle, simply said, “Why do you fear a man like him?”

As the time for prayer approached, Ibn Jurmuz suggested, “It is time to pray”. Al-Zubayr, a devout and God-conscious man, agreed without hesitation. They both dismounted to offer the prayer together. In that sacred moment, as Al-Zubayr stood in worship, completely absorbed in his connection with his Lord, Ibn Jurmuz carried out his treacherous plan. He stepped behind Al-Zubayr and struck him fatally, piercing through the back of his armor while he was in prayer.

Thus, Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam — the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, one of the ten companions promised Paradise, and a sword of Islam was killed not in the heat of battle, but in an act of betrayal during salah. Ibn Jurmuz took Al-Zubayr’s horse, ring, and weapons, sparing the young servant, who then buried his master in Wadi al-Siba‘ (Valley of the Lions) with quiet dignity.

Ali's Reaction and Legacy After the Killing of Al-Zubayr Ibn Al-Awwam

Returning with the grim news, Ibn Jurmuz reached Al-Ahnaf and announced what had taken place. Al-Ahnaf, struck by uncertainty, said, “By Allah, I do not know whether I have done good or evil”. Seeking clarity, he descended to meet Ali ibn Abi Talib, bringing Ibn Jurmuz along to deliver the report.

When Ali heard the details of Al-Zubayr’s death, he was visibly moved. He called for Al-Zubayr’s sword, and when it was brought before him, he held it and said with deep sorrow, A sword that so often relieved the distress from the face of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. He then ordered the sword to be sent to Aisha, who had allied with Al-Zubayr in the battle, so that she might be informed of his tragic fate.

Turning to Al-Ahnaf, Ali expressed his disappointment, saying, “You hesitated”. Al-Ahnaf replied with sincerity and regret, “I thought I was doing right, O Commander of the Faithful. Everything that happened was under your command. So be gentle, for your path is long, and you will need me more tomorrow than you did yesterday. Recognize my loyalty and preserve our bond for the future. Do not say such words, for I have never ceased to be your sincere supporter”.

And so ended the life of Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam — not in the glorious clash of battle, but in the quiet sanctity of prayer, by the hand of betrayal. His legacy lives on as a paragon of courage, loyalty, and honor — a man whose sword once defended the Prophet ﷺ and whose story remains a chapter of deep reflection in Islamic history.