The Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ love for his daughter Fatima (رضي الله عنها) was immense, profound, and filled with deep tenderness.

Their relationship stands as a beautiful example of fatherly affection, respect, and spiritual connection. 

Fatima رضي الله عنها was held incredibly high and our Master Muhammad ﷺ would often express that Fatima رضي الله عنها was not just his daughter, but also a part of him, ﷺ. 

"Fatima is a part of me. Whoever harms her harms me."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

His ﷺ connection and care for her رضي الله عنها was deep rooted and it extended both to her physical well being and her emotional and spiritual state.

Whenever Fatima رضي الله عنها entered a room where the Prophet ﷺ was present, he would stand up to greet her, showing her great honour. He would kiss her on the forehead and offer her his seat, which is a remarkable sign of respect, especially considering the cultural norms of that time. The Prophet ﷺ would always display this tender gesture to show his love and to teach others the importance of respecting daughters.

Similarly, Fatima رضي الله عنها would reciprocate this love. When the Prophet ﷺ visited her, she would greet him in the same way—standing up, kissing him, and welcoming him warmly.

Despite his many duties, the Prophet ﷺ made sure to check on Fatima رضي الله عنها and her family frequently.

Once, when Fatima رضي الله عنها asked him for a servant to help her with her household duties, the Prophet ﷺ, instead of giving her a servant, taught her and her husband Ali (RA) the famous prayer of Tasbih Fatimah:

• "SubhanAllah (33 times), Alhamdulillah (33 times), Allahu Akbar (34 times)."

This was a reminder of spiritual strength, as well as an act of care, offering her a way to find peace and comfort in remembrance of Allah.

The Prophet ﷺ also honoured Fatima رضي الله عنها with an extraordinary status, declaring her:

• "Fatima is the leader (Sayyidah) of the women of Paradise."
  (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

This shows not only his love but also his recognition of her piety, devotion, and exemplary character, which placed her among the most beloved of Allah’s servants.

Through his relationship with Fatima رضي الله عنها, the Prophet ﷺ set an example for how fathers should love, respect, and care for their daughters. His affection for Fatima رضي الله عنها was not just sentimental but also practical, as he ﷺ continually taught her valuable lessons in faith, patience, and perseverance. This has become a model for Muslim families across generations, showing the importance of family bonds in Islam.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ had an extraordinary, affectionate, and protective relationship with Fatima رضي الله عنها. He showed her immense respect, treated her with great love and care, and recognised her spiritual rank, making their bond a source of inspiration for all Muslims.

Fatima bint Muhammad (ra) | Builders of a Nation  | Dr Haifaa Younis