Sumayya bint al-Khayyat (RA) – The First Martyr of Islam

Among the earliest believers who embraced Islam in Makkah was Sumayya bint al-Khayyat (RA), remembered in history as the first martyr of Islam. She was the wife of Yasir ibn Amir (RA) and the mother of Ammar ibn Yasir (RA), both of whom also accepted Islam in the earliest days. Though she lived as a slave woman of humble means, her heart was filled with unshakable faith in Allah and His Messenger ﷺ.

Faith Under Persecution

When Quraysh intensified their persecution of the weak, the family of Yasir became a prime target. They were tortured under the blazing sun of Makkah, yet they held firmly to their faith. The Prophet ﷺ, unable to protect them physically, would pass by and console them with the words:

“Patience, O family of Yasir! Your promised place is Paradise.”
(Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 23482; Al-Mustadrak al-Hakim, 5642)

These words became a source of strength for Sumayya (RA) and her family as they endured cruelty with steadfastness.

Martyrdom in the Path of Allah

Sumayya (RA) was subjected to severe torture by Abu Jahl, one of the staunchest enemies of Islam. Despite immense suffering, she refused to renounce her belief in Allah. Abu Jahl ultimately struck her with a spear, killing her (Ibn Saʿd, al-Ṭabaqāt al-Kubrā, vol. 3). She thus became the first martyr in Islam, honored eternally for her sacrifice.

A Symbol of Steadfastness

The Qur’an reminds us of such steadfast believers:

“Among the believers are men who have been true to their covenant with Allah; some of them have fulfilled their vow, and some are still waiting, but they have never changed in the least.”
(Qur’an 33:23)

Sumayya (RA) lived this verse through her patience, courage, and unwavering faith.

Legacy

Her son, Ammar ibn Yasir (RA), went on to become a great companion of the Prophet ﷺ, remembered for his loyalty and wisdom. The Prophet ﷺ said regarding him:

“Ammar will be killed by the rebellious group.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 447; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2915)

This prophecy came true during the Battle of Ṣiffīn, further confirming the lofty status of Sumayya’s family.

Lessons for Today

From Sumayya (RA), Muslims learn that:

• Faith may demand sacrifice, but its reward is eternal.
• Strength is not in physical power, but in steadfastness.
• Even the weakest in society can hold the highest rank with Allah.

Her name shines as a beacon of courage, reminding us that the path to Paradise is paved with patience, resilience, and devotion to Allah.