Zaynab was the daughter of Abu Rafi'1 who was the servant of the Messenger of God (S). She served the Messenger of God (S) and his daughter Fatimah ('a).

Her Merits

Considering her parents' life history that they served the Messenger of God (a), and were trusted by him, Amir al-Mu'minin ('a) and Fatimah ('a), it may be said that Zaynab, like her father, was one of the close companions of the Prophet's household ('a).

She has related traditions from Fatimah ('a). Ibrahim al-Rafi'i has related traditions from her.

Abu Na'im relates from Ya'qub Ibn Hamid from Ibrahim al-Rafi'i that the daughter of Abu Rafi' said, "'I saw Fatimah, the daughter of the Messenger of God (S), when she came to her father with her two sons. It was at the time when he was sick with the illness which he died from.' The daughter of Abu Rafi' said, 'O Messenger of God, these are your children. Give them something as inheritance from yourself.' He said, 'Al-Hasan has inherited my majesty and gentlemanliness while al-Husayn has inherited my generosity and bravery.'"2

• 1. Abu Rafi was freed by the Holy Prophet (S); so, he remained in his service. The Prophet (S) said about him, "Each prophet had someone to trust, and the person I trust is Abu Rafi'." He participated in most of the battles alongside the Prophet (S) and later alongside Amir al-Mu'minin ('a). He was one of the good Shi'ah followers, and the Imam's treasurer.
• 2. Usd al-Ghabah, vol. 5, p. 467; Al-Isabah, vol. 4, p. 310.