Fatimah bint Muhammad, the youngest daughter of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and Khadijah, died shortly after her father’s death in Medina. Her demise occurred merely six months after the Prophet's passing. Fatimah was highly esteemed among Muslims, seen as a figure of purity and strength. After her father's death, she expressed deep sorrow, leading to speculation that grief could have contributed to her illness. The exact cause of her death remains a highly debated issue among Sunni and Shia Muslims, with differing narratives surrounding both her health and the events that transpired leading to her final moments.

Her death had profound implications for the early Islamic community, as Fatimah's family lineage was central to the Shia belief system. Shia Muslims regard her descendants, known as the Imams, as spiritual leaders with divine authority, while Sunni perspectives emphasize her role in Islamic history without the same theological implications. This divergence in beliefs contributed to the broader Sunni-Shia split, heavily influencing political and religious dynamics throughout Islamic history.

In the aftermath of her death, Fatimah's legacy continued to shape the beliefs and practices of her followers. The events surrounding her passing spurred the growth of sectarian identities and debates that echo into contemporary Islamic discourse. Additionally, her story has been a source of inspiration for various movements advocating for women's rights within the Islamic tradition, framed through her example of resilience and moral integrity.