The 21st of Ramadan stands out in history as a day of remarkable spiritual, political, and social significance. Across centuries, it has witnessed events ranging from sacred family rituals to decisive military victories and transformative political developments.
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The Aqiqah of Hasan ibn Ali (RA)
In 3 AH, on the seventh day after his birth, Hasan ibn Ali (RA), grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), was celebrated with the Aqiqah ceremony. The Prophet (SAW) personally performed the sacrifice on behalf of his grandson and instructed that the silver equivalent of Hasan’s hair weight be distributed as charity. This event symbolised the importance of newborn care, charity, and community cohesion.
In breaking the naming traditions of the Jahiliyyah period, the Prophet (SAW) named his grandson “Hasan,” establishing a precedent for justice and thoughtful naming practices within Muslim families.
Osman I: Founder of the Ottoman Empire
On 21st Ramadan 726 AH (1326 CE), Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire, passed away. Born in 1258 CE, the year Baghdad fell, Osman transformed a minor principality into an empire that endured for over six centuries. Notably, he left no personal wealth at his death, only his sword, armour, and horse, later preserved as “Osman’s Sword”, symbolising the legacy of leadership over material possession.
Nur ad-Din Zengi’s Triumph Against the Crusaders
In 559 AH (1164 CE), Sultan Nur ad-Din Mahmud Zengi led Muslim forces to a major victory against the Crusaders at Harim in Syria. Using masterful tactics, he separated the Crusader cavalry from their infantry, resulting in nearly 10,000 casualties and capturing prominent lords from Tripoli and Antioch. This victory was a strategic step towards the eventual recapture of Jerusalem.
Other Historical Events on 21st Ramadan
Execution of Sheikh Farhan al-Sader (1356 AH / 1937 CE): The 77-year-old Palestinian nationalist was executed by British authorities during Ramadan, inspiring subsequent resistance movements.
Passing of Imam Ibn Majah (273 AH): A renowned scholar and compiler of one of the six canonical Hadith collections, his death marked a significant moment in Islamic scholarship.
Commencement of the Suez Canal Project (1275 AH / 1859 CE): Excavation began, creating a critical trade link between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, altering global commerce and geopolitics.
Key Historical Events
| Year (AH / CE) | Event | Key Figures | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 AH | Aqiqah of Hasan ibn Ali | Hasan ibn Ali (RA), Prophet Muhammad (SAW) | Newborn rites, charity, social cohesion |
| 559 AH / 1164 CE | Victory at Harim | Nur ad-Din Zengi | Weakens Crusader forces, advances path to Jerusalem |
| 726 AH / 1326 CE | Death of Osman I | Osman I | Establishment of the Ottoman Empire, enduring legacy |
| 273 AH | Passing of Imam Ibn Majah | Imam Ibn Majah | Major contribution to Hadith literature |
| 1275 AH / 1859 CE | Suez Canal excavation | International engineers | Transformed global trade routes |
| 1356 AH / 1937 CE | Execution of Sheikh Farhan al-Sader | Sheikh Farhan al-Sader | Symbol of Palestinian resistance |
The 21st of Ramadan thus embodies devotion, leadership, scholarship, and resistance, reflecting lessons that continue to inspire generations across the Muslim world and beyond.