Rumaysa bint Milhan

Who is Rumaysa bint Milhan?

Rumaysa [Ar-Rumaysho'/ Ar-Rumaydho'] bint Milhan, popularly known as Umm Sulaym, was one of the earliest women converts to Islam in Yathrib. Umm Sulaym was first married to Malik ibn an-Nadr and her son by this marriage was Anas ibn Malik, a notable companion of Muhammad.

Following the death of her first husband, Zayd ibn Sahl, known as Abu Talha ibn Thabit, resolved to become engaged to her before anyone else did. He was confident that Umm Sulaym would not pass him over for another. He was quite rich, an accomplished horseman, and a skilful archer and he belonged to the same clan as Umm Sulaym, the Banu Najjar. Following Abu Talhah's acceptance of Islam, the two married and were considered a model Muslim couple. Abu Talhah died while he was on a naval expedition during the time of the caliph Uthman, and was buried at sea.

Umm Sulaym was noted for her courage and bravery. During the battle of Uhud, she carried a dagger in the folds of her dress, giving water and tending to the wounded and attempting to defend Muhammad when the tide of battle was turning against him.

A narration attributed to Anas ibn Malik reports: