u/JusticeResearch

The practice of ma'tam is recorded in the works of Bukhari, Muslim and Ahmad ibn Hanbal, where it is narrated that, after the death of the Prophet (s), the women of the household engaged in ma'tam, as an expression of grief. On the origin of the ancient practices of ma'tam (tapping the chest) and qama-zani (hitting the head with a sword). These practices are recorded in the work of Herodotus around 500 BC. This highlights the continuity of ancient methods of mourning that people might undertake as part of their culture. This is not a fiqh discussion, but rather just showing how far these goes back.