Person
Hadith narrator

Ali ibn Husayn

علي بن حسين

Zayn al-Abidin

659 CE – 712 CE (38 AH – 94 AH)(aged ~53) Born in Medinah Died in Medinah Quraysh

Ali ibn Husayn, also known as Zayn al-Abidin, was the great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and a prominent early Muslim scholar renowned for his piety and transmission of hadiths. He lived in Medina and was a key figure among the Tabi‘in.

Ali ibn Husayn was the son of Husayn ibn Ali and the great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, belonging to the Banu Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe. He lived during the late 7th century CE, witnessing the tragic Battle of Karbala where his father was martyred. Known for his deep piety and scholarship, he survived the massacre and became a leading figure among the Tabi‘in, transmitting many hadiths from the Prophet's family. He resided primarily in Medina and was revered for his spiritual leadership and devotion. His epithet, Zayn al-Abidin, reflects his status as the 'ornament of the worshippers'. He died in Medina, leaving a lasting legacy in Islamic spirituality and Shia thought.

Significance

He is significant as a key spiritual leader among the Tabi‘in and a transmitter of the Prophet Muhammad's teachings through his family.

Reputation in tradition

Highly praised in Sunni tradition for his piety, scholarship, and role as a transmitter of hadiths from the Prophet's family.
Classical grade
thiqa
Generation
Tābiʿ al-Tābiʿīn
Narrations by collection
  • sahih bukhari: 0
Why they matter in hadith

He is a crucial transmitter of hadiths from the Prophet’s family and a link between the Sahaba and later generations.

Sources: Wikipedia and classical Islamic biographical literature compiled by automated researchers. Every page is being continuously refined — if something looks off, please check back in a few days.