Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib facts for kids

Al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib was an uncle of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He was only about three years older than his nephew. Abbas was a wealthy merchant. In the early days of Islam, he protected Muhammad in Mecca. However, he officially became a Muslim after the Battle of Badr in 624 CE. His family later started the Abbasid dynasty in 750 CE.

Early Life and Business

Abbas was born around 565 CE. He was one of the younger sons of Abd al-Muttalib. His mother was Nutayla bint Janab. After his father passed away, Abbas took over the important role of managing the Zamzam Well. This well provided water to pilgrims visiting Mecca. He also became a successful spice merchant, which made him very rich.

Becoming a Muslim

For many years, as Islam grew, Abbas protected his nephew Muhammad. But he did not join the new religion himself. He spoke on behalf of Muhammad at the Second Pledge of Aqaba. However, he did not join the group that moved to Medina (this move was called the Hijra).

Abbas fought against the Muslims in the Battle of Badr. He was captured during this battle. Muhammad allowed Abbas to pay a ransom to free himself and his nephew. Some historians say Abbas secretly became a Muslim before this battle. Others say he converted shortly after it.

It is also believed that Abbas officially declared his faith in Islam in January 630 CE. This was just before the fall of Mecca. His wife, Lubaba bint al-Harith, had become a Muslim twenty years earlier. After his conversion, Muhammad called him the "last of the migrants." This meant he received a share of the resources gained from battles. He also kept the right to provide Zamzam water to pilgrims. This right was passed down to his children.

Abbas quickly joined Muhammad's army. He fought in the Conquest of Mecca. He also took part in the Battle of Hunayn and the Siege of Ta'if. During the Battle of Hunayn, he bravely defended Muhammad when others left. After these battles, Abbas moved his family to Medina. Muhammad often visited them there. Abbas also fought in the expedition to Tabuk.

Family Life

Abbas had at least five wives.

• Lubaba bint al-Harith, also known as Umm al-Fadl, was a very important woman. She was said to be the second woman to become Muslim, on the same day as Khadija bint Khuwaylid, Muhammad's first wife. Umm al-Fadl was known for her strong faith. She even stood up to Abū Lahab, an enemy of the Muslims.
• Fatima bint Junayd
• Hajila bint Jundub ibn Rabia
• Musliya, a Greek woman
• Tukana, a Jewish woman whom Abbas married after 632 CE.

Abbas had many children. Some of his well-known children include:

• Al-Fadl
• Abd Allah
• Ubayd Allah
• Qutham
• Ma'bad
• Abd al-Rahman
• Umm Habib
• Al-Harith
• Awn
• Mushir
• Kathir
• Amina
• Safiya
• Tammam

Later Years and Passing

Abbas passed away in February 653 CE. He was 89 years old. He is buried in the Jannatul Baqee cemetery in Medina, Saudi Arabia.

His Lasting Impact

Further information: Abbasid Caliphate, Abbasid dynasty, and Caliphate

The Abbasid dynasty was founded in 750 CE. This powerful ruling family claimed their right to lead as "caliphs" (successors) because they were descendants of Abbas's son, Abdallah.

Many other families also say they are direct descendants of Abbas. These include the Kalhoras of Sindh, the Berber Banu Abbas, the modern-day Bawazir of Yemen, and the Shaigiya and Ja'Alin of Sudan.

Ancestors and Family Tree

See Also

In Spanish: Abbás ibn Abd al-Muttálib para niños

• Sahabah
• List of Sahabah
• List of notable Hijazis
• Muhammad
• Banu Abbas
• Banu Hashim