Introduction
Lady Hajar is one of the most significant and inspiring women in Islamic history. She was Prophet Ibrahim’s wife and Prophet Ismail’s mother . Her story is a timeless example of faith, patience, and trust in Allah’s wisdom.
Who Was Lady Hajar
Lady Hajar was originally a servant gifted to Lady Sarah, the first wife of Prophet Ibrahim, by the king of Egypt. Lady Sarah later offered Hajar to Ibrahim as his wife, and through this union, Allah blessed them with their son, Ismail. . Therefore, ady Hajar: a symbol of faith, patience & sacrifice is a source of inspiration fot all Muslims.
The Test of Faith: Hajar and Ismail in the Desert
Historicaly, after the birth of Ismail, Allah commanded Prophet Ibrahim to take Lady Hajar and their infant son to a barren desert, the land of Makkah. Truly, at that time, Makkah was an uninhabited, dry valley with no water, plants, or people. For this reason, Muslims look to Lady Hajar as a symbol of faith, patience & sacrifice.
So, Prophet Ibrahim obeyed Allah’s command and left Hajar and Ismail with minimal provisions. Suddenly, as he turned to leave, Lady Hajar asked him:
“ Has Allah commanded you to do this?”
However, when Ibrahim replied, “Yes,” she said with full trust: “Then Allah will not forsake us.”
This is why this statement reflects Lady Hajar’s unwavering faith and trust in Allah’s plan, even in the most challenging circumstances.
The Search for Water: The Story of Safa and Marwa
Suddenly, when their water ran out, and baby Ismail began crying from thirst, Lady Hajar could not bear to see him suffer. Later, in desperation, she began searching for water or help.
Panting, she ran between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times, hoping to find someone or something.
Religiously, her search symbolized her immense sacrifice, effort, and reliance on Allah.
Finally, after her seventh run, Allah sent a miraculous sign:
Suddenly, Angel Jibreel struck the ground, and the Zamzam water began to gush forth beneath the feet of baby Ismail.
The Significance of Zamzam Water
Amazingly, the water of Zamzam was not only a blessing for Lady Hajar and Ismail but has remained a source of water and nourishment for all people throughout history. The Prophet said about Zamzam:
“It is blessed; it is food for nourishment and a cure for illness.” (Sahih Muslim)
Hajar’s Legacy in Islamic Rituals
Therefore, the struggle and sacrifice of Lady Hajar are immortalized in the rituals of Hajj and Umrah.
So, the sai’ (walking betweenSafa and Marwa ) is performed in her honor, symbolizing patience, perseverance, and reliance on Allah.
Allah mentions this ritual in the Qur’an:
{إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ}
(Surah Al-Baqarah: 158)
Through this, Muslims are reminded of Lady Hajar’s faith, sacrifice, and trust in Allah.
Hajar: The Mother of a Great Nation
From Lady Hajar’s son Ismail descended the Arab nation and, eventually, Prophet Muhammad. This signifies her honor as the mother of one of the greatest lineages in history
Lessons from the Story of Lady Hajar
Unshakable Trust in Allah
Lady Hajar’s words, “Then Allah will not forsake us,” reflect her absolute reliance on Allah in the most challenging moments.
Effort and Action Alongside Faith
Even though she had faith in Allah, Lady Hajar took action by searching for water, teaching us that faith requires both trust in Allah and human effort.
Patience During Trials
Lady Hajar endured immense hardships with patience and acceptance of Allah’s will, demonstrating the power of perseverance.
The Reward for Sacrifice
Allah rewarded Lady Hajar’s sacrifice by making Zamzam a source of life and nourishment for generations and by honoring her efforts in the rituals of Hajj
Conclusion
The story of Lady Hajar remains a powerful symbol of faith, perseverance, and sacrifice. Her unwavering trust in Allah and her determination to act even in the face of hardship serve as a timeless example for all believers. Her legacy lives on, not only in the rituals of Hajj but also as an inspiration for patience and trust in Allah’s divine plan.
“لَقَدْ كَانَ فِى قَصَصِهِمْ عِبْرَةٌۭ لِّأُو۟لِى ٱلْأَلْبَـٰبِ ۗ (Surah Yusuf: 111
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