07 September, 2025
Ramlah bint Abi Sufyan, widely known as Umm Habiba, was born into one of the most powerful families in Mecca. Her father, Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, was a prominent leader of the Quraysh tribe. Despite her family’s early opposition to Islam, Ramlah embraced the new faith and became one of its strongest believers.
Umm Habiba accepted Islam in the early years and faced severe persecution. Along with her first husband, she migrated to Abyssinia seeking refuge under the just Christian king, the Negus. While there, her husband left Islam, which left her alone in a foreign land. Despite the hardship, Ramlah remained firm in her faith and continued practicing Islam with patience and devotion.
Her steadfastness was rewarded with great honor. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ proposed marriage to her while she was still in Abyssinia. The proposal was carried out by the Negus himself, who facilitated the marriage contract and provided a generous dowry on behalf of the Prophet.
This marriage was a turning point in her life. It not only elevated her status as one of the Mothers of the Believers but also symbolized the unity of different tribes under Islam.
Umm Habiba was known for her strong faith, wisdom, and resilience. Despite the political tension between her father Abu Sufyan and the Muslims, she remained loyal to Islam and supportive of the Prophet ﷺ. One famous incident highlights her firmness: when her father visited her home in Medina, he attempted to sit on the Prophet’s bed. Umm Habiba quickly folded the bedding, showing her respect for the Prophet and her commitment to his honor, even over her father.
Umm Habiba lived in Medina as one of the respected Mothers of the Believers. She narrated several hadiths that provide valuable guidance for Muslims. Her life was an example of patience, loyalty, and devotion to Islam despite challenges.
Ramlah bint Abi Sufyan passed away in the year 44 AH during the caliphate of her brother, Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan. She was buried in Al-Baqi cemetery in Medina.
Her legacy lives on as a woman of faith and perseverance, remembered for her courage, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to the message of Islam.
