Ja'dah ibn Hubayrah and his sons: their biography and narrations

Abstract

Received: 2025 / 11 / 18
Revision: 2025 / 11 / 28
Accepted: 2025 / 12 / 21
Published: 2026 / 09 / 30

This research aims to shed light on the figure of Ja'dah ibn Hubayrah al-Makhzumi, one of the prominent figures of early Islam, distinguished by his noble lineage and close connection to the Prophet's family, as he was the nephew of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (may God be pleased with him). The study examines his biography, political stances, and intellectual and literary contributions, focusing on his role in the major events of Islamic history during the transition from the Rashidun Caliphate to the beginnings of the Umayyad state. Ja'dah belonged to the Banu Makhzum tribe, one of the most prominent clans of the Quraysh, which held significant economic and social influence in Mecca before Islam. Sources indicate that Imam Ali (peace be upon him) appointed him governor of Khurasan, but his tenure was short-lived. He returned to Kufa, where he was present on the night of the Imam's martyrdom, leading the prayers and overseeing the Imam's funeral preparations. He enjoyed a special position with Imam Ali due to his kinship, loyalty, and eloquence. He was also active in the literary and intellectual spheres, with narratives and poems attributed to him that demonstrate his erudition. This research highlights the importance of re-examining this figure, who has not received sufficient analysis despite his prominent political and intellectual role, thus contributing to a richer understanding of early Islamic history and its influential figures.