Zulfiqar (Dhul Fiqar) is one of the swords of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) which he acquired through the booty from the day of Badr and saw it in dream on the day of Uhud. Shia muslims believe that later this sword was inherited by Hazrat Ali (Ra).
Among shia historians and scholars the sword became significant with many stories being attributed to it though most of it are not authentic. What is commonly believed is that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave this sword to Ali (Ra).
In a hadith by Hazrat Abbas (Ra) the sword is also mentioned but unfortunately the sword is not present today. Many stories are narrated about the location of the sword but no story is based on facts.
It is believed that the sword was dual edged, that is why many swords are made dual edged to look like the sword of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), but many believe that it is a misconception that the sword was dual edged.
Many people ask why the sword was called Zulfiqar, scholars commonly believe that it is because it had beautiful engraving on it which in Arabic is called fiqrah.
In a hadith it is mentioned that the pommel of the sword was made from silver. (al-Nasai 5373). It is said that it total the Prophet (PBUH) had 9 swords which are named:
- Dhu’l-Fiqaar
- al-‘Adb
- Ma’thoor
- al-Qal’i
- al-Battaar
- al-Hatif
- al-Rasoob
- al-Mikhdham
- al-Qadeeb
One of the most amazing things from the life or Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is that he not only fulfilled the role of a Prophet but also worked as a ruler, warrior & spiritual leader.