Nusaybah bint Ka'ab

Nusaybah bint Ka'ab, also known as Umm Ammarah, was a remarkable figure in early Islamic history. She was one of the first women to embrace Islam and became a sahabiyyah, a companion of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Her lineage traces back to Ka'ab ibn ʿAmr, and she was the mother of two sons, Ḥabīb and ʿAbdullāh, from her first marriage to Zayd ibn ʿĀṣim.

Her commitment to Islam was evident when she, alongside Umm Munee Asma bint ʿAmr bin 'Adi, became one of the only two women to pledge allegiance directly to Muhammad during the significant event at al-Aqabah. This pledge, known as bayʿah, symbolized the transfer of power to Muhammad over Medina, showcasing her influential role in the early Muslim community.

Nusaybah's most notable contributions came during the Battle of Uhud, where she valiantly defended the prophet. Her bravery extended to her participation in other key battles, including Hunain and Yamamah, as well as the Treaty of Hudaybia. Her actions not only demonstrated her dedication to Islam but also set a precedent for women's involvement in military endeavors.

In her personal life, Nusaybah experienced the loss of her two sons, who became martyrs in battle. After her first marriage, she married Ghaziyya bin ʿAmr and had a daughter named Khawlah, further enriching her legacy as a mother and warrior.