An early convert to Islam , Zubayr was a commander in the Battle of Badr in , in which the latter was instrumental in defeating the opponent forces of the Quraysh. He participated in almost all of the early Muslim battles and expeditions under Muhammad. He was involved in the defense of Medina and Battle of Yamama. After Umar's assassination, Zubayr became an important political figure of the caliphate, being the chief advisor of the Shura that elected the third caliph Uthman.
During the latter's caliphate, Zubayr advised the caliph in political and religious issues. Zubayr's forces engaged with Ali's forces in the Battle of the Camel in December In the aftermath, while Zubayr was prostrating in prayer, he was killed by Amr ibn Jurmuz.
Zubayr is generally considered by historians to be one of early Islam's most accomplished commanders. The Sunni Islamic tradition credits Zubayr as being promised paradise. The Shia Islamic tradition views Zubayr negatively.
The general's descendants, known as the Zubayrids , are found worldwide. His mother was Muhammad's aunt, Safiyya bint Abd al-Muttalib. Hence Zubayr was Muhammad's first cousin and brother in law.
Zubayr ibn al-Awwam was born in Mecca in Safiyya, who was pregnant at the time, had to carry the man home. Zubayr is said to have entered Islam at the age of Najashi met the rebels in battle on the banks of the Nile.
