A Warrior - Nusaybah bint Ka‘b (RA)
Jummah Mubarak, sis and Happy Women’s History month! As we continue these newsletters, we remain dedicated to honoring the remarkable women in Islamic history. This week, we celebrate Nusaybah bint Ka‘b (May Allah SWT be pleased with her), a true symbol of courage and devotion. She defended our faith not only on the battlefield but also within her community, standing firmly for justice. Known for her strength, resilience, and unwavering faith, she reminds us that bravery isn’t just about being the first—it’s about standing firm even when society tries to define our roles. Nusaybah (RA) was a wife and a mother, but she was also a fearless warrior, unshaken in her commitment to Islam.
As we reflect on our own contributions to this ummah, let’s ask ourselves: Are we bold enough to stand for the truth, even when we stand alone? Are we willing to challenge injustice, no matter the cost? Do we recognize that the roles we play at home do not limit our ability to make a lasting impact?
Allah SWT has created each of us uniquely, with gifts and strengths that serve a purpose. How will you use yours?
Surah Al-Ahzab | 33:35
إِنَّ ٱلْمُسْلِمِينَ وَٱلْمُسْلِمَـٰتِ وَٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَٱلْمُؤْمِنَـٰتِ وَٱلْقَـٰنِتِينَ وَٱلْقَـٰنِتَـٰتِ وَٱلصَّـٰدِقِينَ وَٱلصَّـٰدِقَـٰتِ وَٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ وَٱلصَّـٰبِرَٰتِ وَٱلْخَـٰشِعِينَ وَٱلْخَـٰشِعَـٰتِ وَٱلْمُتَصَدِّقِينَ وَٱلْمُتَصَدِّقَـٰتِ وَٱلصَّـٰٓئِمِينَ وَٱلصَّـٰٓئِمَـٰتِ وَٱلْحَـٰفِظِينَ فُرُوجَهُمْ وَٱلْحَـٰفِظَـٰتِ وَٱلذَّٰكِرِينَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًۭا وَٱلذَّٰكِرَٰتِ أَعَدَّ ٱللَّهُ لَهُم مَّغْفِرَةًۭ وَأَجْرًا عَظِيمًۭا
“Surely ˹for˺ Muslim men and women, believing men and women, devout men and women, truthful men and women, patient men and women, humble men and women, charitable men and women, fasting men and women, men and women who guard their chastity, and men and women who remember Allah often—for ˹all of˺ them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.”
Allah SWT promises a great reward for those who remain steadfast upon His word. Standing firm in faith is not just about belief—it is about action, sacrifice, and using the blessings He has given us to uplift our ummah. There are countless ways to embody the divine guidance found in the Qur'an, but doing so requires us to recognize and apply the unique gifts we possess.
Each of us has been entrusted with talents, strengths, and wisdom that can be used to serve our faith in different ways. Whether through knowledge, leadership, kindness, or resilience, our contributions—big or small—help shape the collective strength of the ummah. What we do today has a ripple effect, influencing those around us and inspiring future generations of believers to hold firm in their faith.
No effort is insignificant in the sight of Allah SWT. Every act of sincerity, every moment of courage, and every step taken toward righteousness becomes a means of elevating not only ourselves but also our brothers and sisters in Islam. When we choose to stand firm, we encourage others to do the same, creating a chain reaction of faith, unity, and unwavering devotion.
May we always strive to use our gifts for His sake and trust that even the smallest of efforts carry weight in the eyes of Allah. Ameen
Ibtihaj Muhammad
Ibtihaj Muhammad is an Olympic fencer, author, and activist who made history as the first hijab-wearing athlete to represent the United States at the Olympics. She won a bronze medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics as part of the U.S. women’s sabre fencing team, making her a role model for Muslim women in sports and beyond.
Breaking Barriers in Sports
Ibtihaj grew up in a supportive Muslim family that encouraged her to pursue sports while maintaining her hijab. She chose fencing because the uniform covered her body, allowing her to compete while adhering to her faith.
She faced discrimination and challenges throughout her career but remained steadfast, proving that Muslim women can excel in competitive sports while staying true to their values.
Her historic Olympic participation shattered stereotypes and provided global visibility for hijab-wearing athletes.
Advocacy and Representation
She has used her platform to advocate for Muslim women’s representation in sports and combat Islamophobia.
In 2017, Mattel released a Barbie doll inspired by her, making it the first-ever Barbie wearing a hijab, a moment she described as a step toward normalizing diverse beauty and representation.
She authored the memoir Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream and a children’s book The Proudest Blue, inspiring young girls to embrace their identity.
Legacy and Impact
Ibtihaj Muhammad continues to be a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and representation. She challenges societal expectations and encourages Muslim women to pursue their passions without compromising their faith. Through her achievements, she reminds us that courage is not just about competing—it’s about standing firm in who you are.
