Question

What is referred to by “masaib” in the following statement?

“Subbat alayya masaibu law annaha subbat ‘alal ayyami sirna layaliya”

Answer

These words are famously attributed to Sayyidah Fatimah (radiyallahu ‘anha) which she supposedly uttered at the demise of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). The translation is as follows:

Such calamities have befallen me [i.e., The demise of her father- sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam], had these calamities befallen the day, it would have become night [being unable to bear the burden].

Also see Siyaru A’lamin Nubala, vol. 2, pg. 134.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar