MCQ Detailed View

The woman who tried to poison Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was Zainab bint Al-Harith, a Jewish woman from the tribe of Khaybar. This incident took place after the Battle of Khaybar, a significant event where Muslims gained victory over the Jewish tribes living in the region. After the battle, Zainab bint Al-Harith invited the Prophet (PBUH) and some of his companions to a meal, during which she served roasted lamb that was secretly poisoned.

Zainab deliberately added poison to the meat, especially targeting the shoulder part, knowing that it was the Prophet favorite portion. Her intention was to take revenge for the defeat of her people at Khaybar and also to test whether Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was truly a prophet. She believed that if he was indeed a prophet, Allah would protect him from the poison. If not, then her plan would succeed in harming him.

When the Prophet (PBUH) took the first bite, he immediately realized something was wrong and stopped eating. One of his companions, Bishr ibn al-Bara (R.A), who also ate the meat, unfortunately swallowed more and later died from the poisoning. The Prophet (PBUH), although affected by the poison, survived because he spat out the meat quickly and did not swallow much.

Upon investigation, Zainab confessed to the act and admitted her reasons. The companions asked for her execution, but Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), in his usual manner of mercy and forgiveness, initially pardoned her. However, after Bishr died due to the poison, she was later executed according to Islamic justice.

Important facts:

• Name: Zainab bint Al-Harith


• Tribe: Jewish tribe in Khaybar


• Incident: Attempted to poison the Prophet (PBUH)


• Victim: Bishr ibn al-Bara’ (R.A) died from the poison


• Prophet’s Reaction: Recognized the poison and showed mercy before justice


• Location: Khaybar, 7 AH / 628 CE

This event highlights both the courage and mercy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Even in a moment of personal danger, he remained calm and just. Zainab story is a reminder of how enemies of Islam sometimes acted out of hatred and fear, but the Prophet (PBUH) continued to lead with wisdom and compassion. Although the poison had a lasting effect on his health, the Prophet (PBUH) never let the pain turn into bitterness, showing the highest moral example for all believers.