Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib

Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib (570-625 CE) was the paternal uncle of Prophet Muhammad and one of the most formidable warriors of early Islam, honored with the titles 'Lion of Allah' (Asadullah) and 'Master of the Martyrs' (Sayyid ash-Shuhada). A renowned hunter and fighter even before Islam, Hamza's conversion in the sixth year of prophethood was a turning point that strengthened the Muslim community and gave it a powerful protector against Quraysh persecution.

Hamza accepted Islam after witnessing Abu Jahl abuse the Prophet. Enraged, Hamza struck Abu Jahl with his bow and declared his faith in Islam. From that point, the Quraysh grew more cautious in their persecution of the Muslims. Hamza participated in the Battle of Badr, where he fought with exceptional bravery, killing several prominent enemies of Islam. He was one of the most feared Muslim warriors on the battlefield.

At the Battle of Uhud in 3 AH (625 CE), Hamza was martyred by Wahshi ibn Harb, an Abyssinian slave who had been promised his freedom in exchange for killing Hamza. After his death, Hind bint Utbah mutilated his body in revenge for her father's death at Badr. When the Prophet saw this, he wept and declared that Hamza was the master of the martyrs. The Prophet's deep grief for Hamza is one of the most poignant moments in the seerah.