Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah

Historical Significance

The Life of Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) was born Barrah in Makkah, into the noble Banu Hilal tribe, around 594 CE. Her father was al-Harith ibn Hazn, and her mother was Hind bint Awf. She was given the name "Maymunah" by the Prophet ﷺ after their marriage, as "Barrah" was renamed to avoid any implication of self-righteousness. Before her marriage to the Prophet ﷺshe had been married twice. Her first marriage ended in divorce, and her second husband, Abu Ruhm ibn Abdul Uzza, passed away, leaving her a widow. It was after this loss that she expressed her desire to marry the Prophet ﷺoffering herself to him without demanding a dowry. The Marriage in Sarif In 7 AH (629 CE), during the Prophet's ﷺ return journey from the "Umrah al-Qada", his uncle Abbas ibn Abdul-Muttalib (RA) proposed the marriage between the Prophet ﷺ and Maymunah (RA). The Prophet ﷺ accepted the proposal, and the marriage was solemnized in Sarif. Historical accounts indicate that:

• The marriage took place while the Prophet ﷺ was in the state of Ihram, though it was consummated later when he was no longer in Ihram.
• The marriage was a source of great honour for Maymunah (RA) and her family.
• This union strengthened the bonds between the Prophet ﷺ and the Banu Hilal tribe.

Her Life in Madinah After her marriage, Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) moved to Madinah and was given a room adjacent to the Masjid al-Nabawi, where she lived alongside the other Mothers of the Believers. She was known for her:

• Deep piety and devotion to Allah.
• Strong memory and intelligence.
• Kindness and consideration towards her relatives.

She narrated approximately 76 Hadith from the Prophet ﷺcontributing to the preservation of Islamic knowledge. Her Passing and Burial Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) passed away in Sarif, the same place where she had been married to the Prophet ﷺHistorical sources differ slightly on the exact year of her passing, with some indicating 51 AH and others suggesting 61 AH. She was approximately 80 to 81 years old at the time of her death. Her funeral prayer was led by her nephew, the honoured Companion Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA). She was buried in Sarif, under or near the same tree where her marriage to the Prophet ﷺ had taken place, creating a beautiful and meaningful connection between the beginning and end of her honoured journey. Her Legacy in Islamic History Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) is remembered as:

• The last wife of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
• A devoted Mother of the Believers.
• A narrator of Hadith who preserved Islamic knowledge.
• A symbol of the honoured position of women in Islam.

Her life story continues to inspire Muslims, especially women, to pursue knowledge, devotion, and righteousness. A Unique Connection Between Marriage and Resting Place The story of Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) carries a unique and emotionally meaningful detail. She was married to the Prophet ﷺ in Sarif, and she passed away and was buried in the very same place. This beautiful coincidence reminds believers of the divine wisdom and the meaningful connections that Allah places in the lives of His honoured servants. The site invites visitors to reflect on:

• The honoured position of the Mothers of the Believers.
• The importance of piety, patience, and devotion.
• The legacy of women in Islamic history.

The People Behind the Story Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) was not alone in her journey. She was supported by her family, including her sister Umm al-Fadl, who was married to the honoured Companion Abbas ibn Abdul-Muttalib (RA). Her nephew, Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA), one of the greatest scholars of the early Muslim community, led her funeral prayer and continued her legacy of knowledge and devotion. Her life was also connected with the other Mothers of the Believers, who welcomed her with kindness and respect when she joined them in Madinah. Together, they formed a honoured circle of women who supported the Prophet ﷺ and preserved his teachings for future generations. Visiting the Grave Today Today, the Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) is marked by a simple enclosure in Sarif, along the historic route between Makkah and Madinah. The site is maintained as a place of respect and remembrance. Visitors should understand that:

• The original structure from the time of her burial does not remain.
• The site is traditionally identified as her resting place.
• There is no special ritual established specifically for visiting the grave.

Why Pilgrims Still Visit The Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah (RA) matters because it is connected with a life of devotion, sacrifice, and honour. She was the last woman to marry the Prophet ﷺand she carried the title of Mother of the Believers with dignity and piety. The site reminds pilgrims that:

• The Mothers of the Believers hold a special place in Islamic history.
• Women played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting Islamic knowledge.
• Piety, patience, and devotion are qualities that earn honour in this life and the next.

Although visiting the grave is not an act of worship in itself, remembering her story helps pilgrims understand the deeper meaning of her life and the sacrifices made by the honoured women of Islam. Frequently Asked Questions Where is the Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah located? The grave is located in Sarif, approximately 20 kilometres north of Makkah, on the historic route between Makkah and Madinah. Why is the Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah important in Islamic history? It marks the resting place of Maymunah bint al-Harith (RA), the last wife of the Prophet ﷺ and a honoured Mother of the Believers, who narrated 76 Hadith and contributed to Islamic knowledge. Can pilgrims visit the Grave of Sayyeda Maymunah today? The site is marked by a simple enclosure and is generally accessible, but visitors should follow local instructions and respect the site as a place of historical and Islamic significance.