Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib "Uncle of the Prophet"

Who was Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib?

Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib ibn Hashim ibn Abd Manaf, a prominent figure of Quraysh and a nobleman of Banu Hashim in the pre-Islamic era, was the paternal uncle of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He was born in Mecca into one of the most esteemed households of Quraysh and grew up as one of the nobility.

He was the full brother of Abdullah ibn Abdul-Muttalib (the Prophet's father), making him the Prophet’s paternal uncle. Az-Zubayr was known for his wisdom, courage, and sense of honor. He was greatly respected among his people and played a significant role in Quraysh's early alliances.

More than just a nobleman, Az-Zubayr was a brave warrior and a community leader who stood by his tribe during times of conflict and crisis. He was one of the ten men who formed the famous Hilf al-Fudul (Alliance of the Virtuous), in which prominent Quraysh leaders vowed to protect the oppressed and restore rights to the wronged, regardless of tribal affiliation.

Though Az-Zubayr passed away before the prophetic mission of Islam began, his influence was lasting. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spoke well of him and held his memory in high regard.

Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib Lineage and Family

Az-Zubayr was the son of Abdul-Muttalib ibn Hashim, the leader of Quraysh in his time and a man of great stature. His mother was Fatimah bint Amr ibn A’idh ibn Imran ibn Makhzum, a noblewoman from the Makhzum clan, one of Quraysh’s most esteemed families.

Thus, Az-Zubayr inherited nobility from both his father and mother. He rose to prominence in Mecca and was involved in important decision-making for the tribe, both in peace and war.

Wife and Children of Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib

Az-Zubayr married Atikah bint Abi Wahb ibn Amr ibn A’idh al-Makhzumiyyah, a woman of noble Qurayshi lineage. They had several children, the most notable of whom include:

• Abdullah ibn Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib: A distinguished nobleman of Quraysh in the pre-Islamic era who later supported the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ during the early stages of Islam. He embraced Islam before the Hijrah (Migration) and had descendants who played important roles in Islamic conquests.
• Dirar ibn Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib: A poet and warrior, mentioned in early Islamic literature. It is said that he took part in some of the battles during the Prophet’s time and afterward.
• Tawilah bint Az-Zubayr: She married into another noble family in Quraysh and was known for her piety and virtue.

Thus, the descendants of Az-Zubayr carried on his legacy, and his children and grandchildren contributed significantly to Islamic history.

Poetry of Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib

Az-Zubayr was a skilled poet and considered one of the prominent pre-Islamic poets of Quraysh. His verses conveyed values of pride, honor, justice, and tribal loyalty. Although no complete collection of his poetry survives, several excerpts have been preserved in historical sources.

One of his most quoted pieces is:

We are people of patience, loyalty, and generosity
Of noble ancestry and praiseworthy heritage

When the oppressed complains, we rise to aid
And sleep not through the night if his injustice is declared

We protect whoever seeks refuge among us
And guard the neighbor from the harshest tribulation

These verses reflect Az-Zubayr’s deep commitment to the values of justice and hospitality. His poetry often served to defend the honor of Banu Hashim and to inspire others with messages of chivalry and integrity.

It is also reported that he often praised his lineage and took pride in the virtues of his clan when challenged by rival tribes.

Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib Role in Hilf al-Fudul

One of the most significant events in Az-Zubayr’s life was his participation in the Hilf al-Fudul (Alliance of the Virtuous). This alliance was formed by a group of Quraysh leaders who pledged to support the oppressed and uphold justice. It was held at the home of Abdullah ibn Jud’an, and among its members were: Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib, Abdullah ibn Jud’an, and Waraqah ibn Nawfal.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ later recalled this pact, saying:

"I witnessed in the house of Abdullah ibn Jud’an a pact so noble that I would not trade it for red camels. If I were called to it in Islam, I would accept".

This statement shows the high regard the Prophet had for this alliance, and Az-Zubayr’s key role in it highlights his moral stature even before Islam.

Death of Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib

Az-Zubayr ibn Abdul-Muttalib died shortly before the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received the message of Islam. Because of this, he was not among the companions (Sahabah) but is still remembered with great respect due to his noble actions and honorable character.

He passed away in Mecca and was buried there. His death was mourned by the people of Quraysh, who valued him as a wise leader and principled man. His legacy lived on through his descendants and the admiration of those who remembered his noble deeds.

It is narrated that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to speak fondly of his uncle Az-Zubayr, saying: "Az-Zubayr was a noble man among us, he loved to help others and fulfill their needs."

Although he did not witness the dawn of Islam, his moral influence and honorable actions helped pave the way for the values Islam would later emphasize.