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Rabia Basri, one of the most well-known female saints in Islamic mysticism (Sufism), was born in 101 AH (approximately 717 CE) in Basra, Iraq. She holds a distinguished place in Islamic spiritual history due to her unwavering devotion, piety, and deep love for Allah. Rabia Basri is remembered not for formal scholarship, but for her remarkable asceticism, humility, and pure-hearted worship.
Her early life was marked by poverty and hardship. It is said that she was the fourth daughter of a poor family—hence the name “Rabia,” meaning “fourth.” Orphaned at a young age and later enslaved, she gained her freedom because of her exceptional spiritual devotion and character. Rabia spent her life in prayer, fasting, and reflection, dedicating herself completely to the love of Allah.
Her teachings emphasized sincere devotion to Allah without expectation of reward or fear of punishment. This radical idea of divine love (Ishq-e-Haqiqi) was groundbreaking in her time and later influenced many Sufi scholars and poets.
Her influence continues across generations, especially among those drawn to Islamic spirituality and mysticism. Rabia Basri’s legacy lives on as a symbol of selfless love for the Creator.
🟩 Key Facts:
Rabia Basri was born in 101 AH (717 CE) in Basra, Iraq.
She is regarded as one of the earliest and most revered female Sufi saints.
Known for her teachings on divine love and spiritual devotion.
Lived a life of poverty, simplicity, and constant remembrance of Allah.
Her influence is evident in later Sufi traditions and literature.
Her name “Rabia” means “fourth,” referring to her birth order.
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