Ibn Ummi Maktum: The Blind Sahabi

ibn ummi maktum, blind sahabi, sahabi,

Ibn Ummi Maktum: The Blind Sahabi ~ Hi readers! When the Prophet Muhammad taught Islam to the Arab people, many individuals helped him. They were people willing to convert to Islam, including both men and women. They are known as Sahabi. Among them was a man named Ibn Ummi Maktum.

Before I explain further about Ibn Ummi Maktum, I would like to clarify that not all Muslims who lived during the time of the Prophet Muhammad are referred to as Sahabi. Why is that? The answer lies in the definition: Sahabi are Muslims who have seen the Prophet Muhammad, even if only briefly, and who died as Muslims. This is a brief definition of who a Sahabi is.

One of the notable Sahabi is Ibn Ummi Maktum. Islamic historical data indicate that he was Amru bin Ummi Maktum. His full name is Zaidah bin Jandab al-Amiri al-A'ma (who is blind) al-Muadhin (the one who calls to prayer). He is commonly known as "Ibn Ummi Maktum."

Read Also: Waraqah bin Naufal

Ibn Ummi Maktum is one of the Sahabi of the Muhajirin. He once led the people in prayer (salat) up to thirteen times when the Prophet Muhammad was away at war.

Hadith About the Blind Sahabi: Ibn Ummi Maktum 

One of the hadiths related to the blind Sahabi (Ibn Ummi Maktum) is as follows:

عَنْ أَنَسٍ رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ اِسْتَخْلَفَ ابْنَ أُمِّ مَكْتُوْمٍ يَؤُمُّ النَّاسَ وَهُوَ أَعْمَى . رَوَاهُ أَحْمَدُ وَأَبُوْ دَاوُدَ

From Anas (may Allah be pleased with him), it is reported that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) appointed Ibn Ummi Maktum to lead the people in prayer (salat), even though he was blind. This hadith is narrated by Ahmad and Abu Dawud.

Dear readers, that is a brief explanation of Ibn Ummi Maktum, the blind Sahabi. Do you understand? If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!

I think that's all for this article. May it be useful. Ameen!

See you again in the next article!

Akhmad Syafiuddin
Akhmad Syafiuddin An expert in Islamic discourse and law, and a graduate of Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

6 comments for "Ibn Ummi Maktum: The Blind Sahabi"

Comment Author Avatar
I am deeply grateful for this informative and insightful article about Ibn Ummi Maktum, the blind Sahabi. As a recent convert to Islam, I have been striving to understand the rich history of Islam, and this article has significantly expanded my knowledge. Learning about the life of Ibn Ummi Maktum, his incredible perseverance, and the special role he played in the early days of Islam has been truly inspiring.

It's amazing to see how even though he was blind, Ibn Ummi Maktum was entrusted with the responsibility of leading prayer, proving that in Islam, true capability is not determined by physical attributes but by one's faith, dedication, and trust in Allah. His story reminds us all that no matter our limitations, we all have the potential to serve in great ways in the path of Islam.

The article was very easy to read and well-written, which made understanding Ibn Ummi Maktum's life and legacy much more accessible. I appreciate the clear explanation of who the Sahabi are and how they contributed to the spread of Islam. I now feel more connected to the history of Islam, knowing that the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are an example for all Muslims to follow.

Thank you to the author for sharing this valuable knowledge. May Allah reward you for this effort. I am looking forward to reading more articles like this to continue expanding my understanding of the faith!
Comment Author Avatar
Hello Rashid,

Thank you for reading this article.

Warm regards.
Comment Author Avatar
As a Muslim woman, I am truly grateful for this insightful article about Ibn Ummi Maktum, the blind Sahabi. The article provides a beautiful reminder of the sacrifices and contributions made by individuals who may have faced personal challenges, yet were unwavering in their devotion to Islam. Ibn Ummi Maktum's role in leading prayers, despite his blindness, demonstrates his incredible strength and leadership, which is an inspiring lesson for all of us.

I appreciate how the article not only highlights the significance of Ibn Ummi Maktum but also explains the broader concept of Sahabi. This clear distinction between those who saw the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the general Muslim population helps deepen our understanding of the history of Islam. The hadith shared further strengthens the appreciation of Ibn Ummi Maktum's devotion and his contributions to the early Muslim community.

Thank you to the author for presenting this information in such an accessible and thoughtful way. It is articles like these that help us connect with the rich history of Islam and feel inspired to emulate the faith and dedication of the early Muslims. I look forward to reading more articles like this one that highlight the lives of remarkable individuals in Islamic history. May Allah reward you for your efforts in spreading knowledge that benefits the Muslim ummah. Ameen!
Comment Author Avatar
Hello Neswa,

Thank you for reading this article.

Warm regards.
Comment Author Avatar
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the author of this wonderful article about Ibn Ummi Maktum, the blind Sahabi. This article has been an eye-opener and an inspiration for me. The way it presents the life, dedication, and unique contributions of Ibn Ummi Maktum is truly commendable. As a Muslim student, I deeply appreciate learning about this remarkable companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), especially how he overcame his blindness to serve Islam with unwavering faith.

The article's clear explanation of what defines a Sahabi, along with the historical insights into Ibn Ummi Maktum's role as a Muadhin (caller to prayer) and his leadership during the Prophet's absence, is both educational and engaging. It is amazing to learn that despite his blindness, Ibn Ummi Maktum was entrusted with leading the prayer, showing that Islam values a person's character and faith over physical abilities. This lesson is powerful and relevant even in today's context.

The inclusion of the hadith narrated by Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) strengthens the authenticity of this narrative. It emphasizes the respect and trust the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had in Ibn Ummi Maktum's abilities. The way the article connects historical facts, hadith, and reflections makes it a compelling read for anyone eager to learn about the lives of the Prophet's companions.

Thank you for writing such an insightful and inspiring article. It reminds us to never underestimate the value of anyone's contribution to society and faith, regardless of their physical limitations. The article also underscores the inclusive nature of Islam and its teachings about equality and responsibility.

I highly recommend this article to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Islamic history and the extraordinary individuals who played pivotal roles in it. May Allah reward you for your efforts in spreading knowledge and fostering love for Islam through your writing.
Comment Author Avatar
Hello Hafsa,

Thank you for reading this article.

Warm regards.