Many pilgrims pass through Bab Umm Hani in Masjid al-Haram without knowing the woman whose name it carries.
Who was she?
Umm Hani RA was the daughter of Abu Talib, making her a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. She was also the sister of Ali RA and Ja’far RA. Her name is commonly reported as Fakhitah, while Umm Hani was the name by which she was known.
But one of the most remarkable accounts about her comes from the Conquest of Makkah.
When the Prophet SAW entered Makkah, Umm Hani RA gave protection to two men from among her relatives. She then went to the Prophet SAW to tell him what she had done.
He confirmed her protection, saying:
“We grant protection to whom you have granted protection, O Umm Hani.”
Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 3171
Think about that. A woman granted protection, and the Prophet SAW honoured her decision.
Her story is a reminder that her role in Islamic history was more than simply being part of the Prophet’s family.
Today, Bab Umm Hani is identified with Gate 87 of Masjid al-Haram. Many pilgrims pass through this gate without knowing the woman behind its name.
Sometimes, a name we pass every day carries a story worth remembering.
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__ Saerah Sukanto
Sources: Sahih al-Bukhari 3171; Ibn Hisham, Seerah, accounts of the Conquest of Makkah.
📷 Photo credit: Haramainarchive
