Companions
Zubayr ibn al-Awwam
Az-Zubayr ibn al-ʿAwwām
One of the ten promised Paradise, cousin of the Prophet ﷺ and a fearless warrior. The Prophet ﷺ called him "my disciple" (hawari).
Who was az-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam?
Az-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam was a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ — the son of the Prophet's paternal aunt Safiyya — and the husband of Asma bint Abi Bakr. One of the very first to accept Islam (while still a youth), he was a courageous warrior, one of the ten companions given the glad tidings of Paradise, and was called by the Prophet ﷺ his hawari (devoted disciple and helper).
His Life
Az-Zubayr embraced Islam in its earliest days and remained steadfast through the years of persecution, taking part in the migration to Abyssinia and then to Medina. He fought in nearly all the major battles alongside the Prophet ﷺ, displaying great bravery at Badr, Uhud, and beyond. The Prophet ﷺ said that every prophet has a hawari (a loyal disciple), and "my hawari is az-Zubayr". He was one of the six members of the consultative council (shura) appointed by Umar to choose the next caliph. A man of generosity and courage, he was tragically killed during the period of civil strife that followed, after he had withdrawn from the conflict.
His Virtues
- The Prophet ﷺ said: "Every prophet has a hawari (disciple), and my hawari is az-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam" (Bukhari 2846).
- He is counted among the ten companions explicitly given the good news of Paradise.
His Legacy
Az-Zubayr embodies early, unwavering faith and courageous loyalty to the Prophet ﷺ. As a young man he accepted Islam without hesitation and devoted his life and strength to its service. His title of hawari reflects the highest degree of loyal companionship. His life, including the sorrow of his end during internal conflict, is also a reminder to the believers to be cautious of discord and to honour the rank of the noble companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that Zubayr was the Prophet's "hawari"?
Hawari means a sincere, devoted disciple and helper — the term used in the Quran for the loyal followers of Isa. The Prophet ﷺ singled out az-Zubayr with this title, indicating his special closeness, loyalty, and readiness to support the Prophet ﷺ with his life.
Was Zubayr among the ten promised Paradise?
Yes. Az-Zubayr is one of the ten companions (al-ashara al-mubashshara) whom the Prophet ﷺ gave the explicit glad tidings of Paradise in a single narration, a mark of their exceptional rank and service to Islam.
Etymology & origin
Az-Zubayr (الزبير) ibn al-Awwam was a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (son of his aunt Safiyya), one of the earliest converts to Islam, and one of the ten companions given the glad tidings of Paradise. The Prophet ﷺ called him "my disciple" (hawari).
References
- Quran:
- 3:52, 9:100, 59:8, 61:14
- Hadith:
- Bukhari 2846 / Muslim 2415 (every prophet has a disciple, and my disciple is az-Zubayr); Bukhari 3717 (the bravery of az-Zubayr); Tirmidhi 3747 (az-Zubayr among the ten given glad tidings of Paradise)
Related terms
Abu Bakr as-Siddiq
The closest friend of the Prophet ﷺ, first adult man to embrace Islam, his companion in the Hijra cave, and the first Rightly-Guided Caliph.
Ali ibn Abi Talib
The fourth Rightly-Guided Caliph, cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet ﷺ, first youth to embrace Islam. Renowned for his knowledge, courage, and eloquence.
Muhammad ﷺ
The final Prophet and Messenger of Allah, sent as a mercy to all worlds. He received the Quran, established Islam, and is the seal of the prophets — none comes after him.
Talha ibn Ubaydullah
One of the ten companions promised Paradise. He shielded the Prophet ﷺ with his own body at the Battle of Uhud, earning the name "the Living Martyr".
Uthman ibn Affan
The third Rightly-Guided Caliph, called "Dhul-Nurayn" (Possessor of Two Lights) for marrying two daughters of the Prophet ﷺ. He compiled the Quran into one standard text.