MCQ Detailed View

Fatima bint Al-Aswad was a woman from the Makhzum tribe in Makkah who committed theft during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As a result, she was subjected to the Islamic Hudood penalty—amputation of the hand—after due legal process and evidence. This case is one of the most well-known and historically documented examples of the application of justice during the Prophet’s time.

When some members of the Quraysh tribe, including Usama bin Zaid (RA), tried to intercede on her behalf due to her noble lineage, the Prophet (PBUH) responded with a powerful message: “By Allah, if Fatima the daughter of Muhammad stole, I would cut off her hand.” This declaration emphasized that justice in Islam is applied equally to all individuals regardless of their social status, gender, or tribal affiliation.

This incident is preserved in authentic hadith sources and often cited in discussions about Islamic criminal law, fairness, and the principle of equal accountability. It also serves as a reminder of the seriousness of implementing justice and the core value of integrity in Islamic governance.

Key Facts:

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  The woman was named Fatima bint Al-Aswad from the Makhzum tribe.

  
  


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  She was punished for theft during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

  
  


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  The Hudood penalty for theft (amputation of the hand) was applied after legal proof.

  
  


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  Usama bin Zaid (RA) attempted to intercede, but the Prophet (PBUH) refused.

  
  


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  The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Even if Fatima, daughter of Muhammad, stole, I would cut off her hand.”

  
  


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  The incident is narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.

  
  


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  This case highlights Islamic justice, equality before the law, and rejection of favoritism.