Commemorating Umm al-Banin

Every year, on the 13th of Jumada al-Thani according to the Islamic lunar calendar, Shi’a Muslims around the world commemorate Umm al-Banin, the wife of Imam Ali and the mother of four martyrs of Karbala. Through her, the mothers of all martyrs who have passed away around the world are also remembered.

According to historical sources, Umm al-Banin was the mother of Abbas, Abdullah, Ja’far, and Osman, who joined Imam Hussein on his expedition and were martyred along the way during the events of Karbala. Her eldest son, Abu al-Fadl Abbas, is recorded in history as Imam Hussein’s standard-bearer and one of the most renowned heroes. Umm al-Banin’s patient and selfless character reflects the highest spiritual values of mothers of martyrs.

On the day of her passing, commemorative events are held in mosques, Husayniyyas, and cultural centers around the world. These events particularly emphasize how the mothers of martyrs raised their children for the sake of religion, homeland, and humanity, endured their martyrdoms with patience, and thereby attained a spiritual rank of martyrdom themselves.

Scholars note that commemorating Umm al-Banin and all mothers of martyrs is not only an act of respect for history but also serves to pass down values such as maternal love, patience, selflessness, and patriotism from one generation to the next.