Al-Abbas ibn Abdul-Muttalib "Uncle of the Prophet"

Al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib Lineage and Early Life

Al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib ibn Hashim, one of the paternal uncles of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was born in Mecca two or three years before the Prophet. His kunyah (honorary title) was Abu al-Fadl.

He was known for his generosity, wealth, and wisdom. His mother was Nutaylah bint Janab ibn Kulayb, who became known as the first woman to clothe the Kaaba with silk. This was due to a vow she made when her son went missing in childhood: she promised to clothe the Sacred House if he were found. When he was, she fulfilled her vow.

Al-Abbas grew up within the noble clan of Banu Hashim, surrounded by his brothers and sisters. Among his siblings, he held a distinguished status for his intellect and character.

The Status of Al-Abbas in Pre-Islamic Mecca

Al-Abbas was one of the most respected and wealthy figures in Quraysh. He took over the duty of providing water to pilgrims (al-siqayah) from his brother Abu Talib, who was financially burdened.

He also oversaw the maintenance of the Kaaba and held a seat in Dar al-Nadwah, the political council of Mecca, which was reserved for the elders and leaders of Quraysh.

Al-Abbas engaged in trade and had strong connections with the elite of Quraysh, including Abu Sufyan ibn Harb. His business dealings and leadership gave him a powerful voice in tribal and economic matters.

The Children and Descendants of Al-Abbas

Al-Abbas fathered ten sons and several daughters. With his wife Lubabah al-Kubra bint al-Harith (Umm al-Fadl), sister of Maymunah (wife of the Prophet), he had: al-Fadl, Abdullah, Ubaydullah, Abdur-Rahman, Qutham, Mabad, and Umm Habibah.

He had other children from concubines and wives, including Kathir, Tammam, Safiyyah, and Umaymah. His son al-Harith was born to Hujaylah bint Jundub.

His most famous child, Abdullah ibn Abbas, became one of the leading scholars of the Muslim community and was nicknamed "the interpreter of the Quran" and "the sea of knowledge". Another son, Qutham, participated in Islamic conquests and died as a martyr in Samarqand. From his lineage came the Abbasid dynasty, which ruled the Muslim world for centuries.

The Conversion of Al-Abbas to Islam

There is scholarly disagreement about the exact time Al-Abbas embraced Islam. Some sources state he became Muslim early but concealed his faith to serve the Prophet from within Mecca. Abu Rafi, a servant of Al-Abbas, reported that he, Umm al-Fadl, and Al-Abbas accepted Islam in secret.

Al-Abbas was compelled to join the polytheists at the Battle of Badr and was captured by the Muslims. That night, the Prophet could not sleep due to hearing his uncle’s groans in chains. One of the companions loosened Al-Abbas's bonds, and the Prophet commanded the same be done for all the prisoners.

When the Prophet asked him to ransom himself, Al-Abbas protested, claiming he was already Muslim. The Prophet replied that Allah knows his faith, but they had to act based on outward appearance. The Prophet even revealed knowledge of hidden wealth that Al-Abbas had left with Umm al-Fadl in Mecca, which no one else knew. Al-Abbas then declared, "Now I know that you are truly the Messenger of Allah".

Regarding this incident, the verse was revealed: "O Prophet, tell those you hold as captives: If Allah knows any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what was taken from you and forgive you..". (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:70).

Al-Abbas and the Second Pledge of Aqabah

Al-Abbas was present at the Second Pledge of Aqabah, though he had not yet openly declared Islam. When the Ansar pledged allegiance to the Prophet during the pilgrimage season, Al-Abbas addressed them first with a powerful and protective speech, warning them of the responsibility they were undertaking.

He said, "Muhammad is in honor among his people and protected in his land. If you are certain you will protect him against all who oppose him, then take him. But if you will betray him, then leave him now".

The Status of Al-Abbas with the Prophet Muhammad

The Prophet loved Al-Abbas deeply and treated him like a father. He once said, "Al-Abbas is from me, and I am from him," and also, "The uncle of a man is like his father. Whoever harms Al-Abbas has harmed me".

On the night of Badr, the Prophet could not rest until Al-Abbas's bonds were eased. Lady Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said, "I never saw the Prophet honor anyone as he honored Al-Abbas".

The Participation of Al-Abbas in Battles

After openly embracing Islam, Al-Abbas joined the Prophet in major events. In the Battle of Hunayn, when many Muslims fled during the initial surprise attack, Al-Abbas stood firm beside the Prophet. He held the reins of the Prophet’s mule and called the Muslims back with his powerful voice until they regrouped and achieved victory.

He also played a role in the peaceful conquest of Mecca, staying close to the Prophet and assisting in calming tensions within Quraysh.

The Relationship of Al-Abbas with the Companions

Al-Abbas held a revered position among the Companions. During the Year of Famine (Am al-Ramadah), Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab led the Muslims in prayer for rain and said, "O Allah, we used to ask You through Your Prophet, now we ask You through the uncle of Your Prophet. Grant us rain". And rain soon fell.

Ali ibn Abi Talib used to kiss Al-Abbas’s hand and say, "Be pleased with me, my uncle". Uthman ibn Affan once visited Al-Abbas and advised him, "Keep your heart sincere, your tongue restrained, and do not dispute unjustly. If you do, you will please your Lord and correct your community".

The Death of Al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib

Al-Abbas passed away in 32 AH during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan. He was buried in Al-Baqi cemetery in Medina. His funeral was widely attended, and the Companions mourned him with respect and love.