As Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) reached the age of marriage, several respected men from the Quraysh tribe approached the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with marriage proposals. Among them were prominent companions such as Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and Hazrat Umar (RA). However, each time, the Prophet (PBUH) would respond that he was awaiting Allah’s command before making any decision.
Hazrat Ali’s (AS) Proposal:
Hazrat Ali (AS) had always been close to the Prophet (PBUH), dedicating his life to the service of Islam. When he developed the desire to marry Hazrat Fatima (SA), he shyly approached the Prophet (PBUH) and made his request. The Prophet (PBUH) joyfully told him that Allah had already arranged their marriage in the heavens.
The Celestial Marriage Ceremony:
Angel Jibra’il (Gabriel, AS) informed the Prophet (PBUH) that Allah had gathered the angels in Paradise. Hazrat Adam (AS) delivered the sermon, Angel Raheel recited praises of Allah, and before all the angels, the sacred marriage of Hazrat Ali (AS) and Hazrat Fatima (SA) was solemnized. This event is narrated in several famous Islamic texts.
Preparations for the Earthly Marriage:
The Prophet (PBUH) arranged for Hazrat Ali (AS) to sell his armor, and the money was used to prepare Hazrat Fatima’s (SA) dowry. The dowry included two mattresses, a hand-mill, curtains, water containers, cushions, clothes, and other simple yet dignified household items.The Marriage Ceremony
All the companions were gathered at Masjid al-Nabawi. The Prophet (PBUH) officiated the marriage and set the mahr (dower) at 400 mithqal (approximately 1,750 grams) of silver. Everyone congratulated the couple, and Hazrat Ali (AS) and Hazrat Fatima (SA) expressed their gratitude to Allah.
The Wedding Feast and Departure:
A few days later, Hazrat Ali (AS) hosted a wedding feast (walima), inviting all the people of Madinah. By the blessings of Allah, the food was plentiful — everyone ate to their fill, and there was still enough left to send home.
On the night of departure, the Prophet (PBUH) personally placed Hazrat Fatima’s (SA) hand into Hazrat Ali’s (AS) and prayed:
“O Ali, Fatima is the best wife for you, and Fatima, Ali is the best husband for you. O Allah! Bless their lives and their progeny, and protect them.”
A Marriage That Became a Timeless Example:
The simplicity and blessings of this marriage continue to stand as an example for the Muslim world today. This sacred union was not merely a contract — it embodied the values, love, and divine blessings central to Islam.
