By Rafiq A. Tschannen

Lady Evelyn Cobbold, born Lady Evelyn Murray in 1867, was a Scottish noblewoman renowned for her conversion to Islam and for being the first British Muslim woman to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Her life was a tapestry of aristocratic privilege, cross-cultural immersion, and spiritual exploration.

Early Life and Exposure to Islam

Born into the distinguished family of Charles Adolphus Murray, 7th Earl of Dunmore, and Lady Gertrude Coke, Evelyn spent much of her childhood in Algiers and Cairo. This early exposure to Islamic culture and the Arabic language left an indelible mark on her. She often accompanied her Algerian friends to mosques, fostering a deep-seated affinity for the Muslim way of life. 

A Serendipitous Declaration

An intriguing episode in her youth further illuminated her spiritual inclinations. While visiting Rome, she had an audience with the Pope, who inquired about her faith. Unhesitatingly, she responded, “I am a Moslem.” This spontaneous declaration prompted her to delve deeper into Islamic teachings, solidifying her belief that Islam was the most practical religion, capable of addressing the world’s complexities and bringing peace to humanity. 

Embracing Islam and the Pilgrimage to Mecca

By 1915, Evelyn had embraced Islam, adopting the name Zainab. Her profound commitment culminated in 1933 when, at the age of 65, she embarked on the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, becoming the first British Muslim woman to do so. This journey was meticulously chronicled in her 1934 book, “Pilgrimage to Mecca,” offering readers an intimate glimpse into her experiences and the spiritual significance of the Hajj. 

Literary Contributions and Advocacy

Beyond her travelogue, Lady Evelyn authored “Kenya: Land of Illusion,” reflecting her extensive travels and keen observations. She was also an advocate for correcting misconceptions about Islam, using her writings to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding. 

Legacy and Final Resting Place

Lady Evelyn passed away in 1963 at the age of 95. Honoring her wishes, she was buried on her Glencarron estate in Scotland. Her grave, situated on a remote hillside, bears the inscription from the Quran: “Allahu nur-us-samawati wal ard” (“Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth”). This epitaph stands as a testament to her enduring faith and the luminous path she chose. 

Lady Evelyn Cobbold’s life is a compelling narrative of cultural immersion, spiritual discovery, and the breaking of societal norms. Her journey from Scottish aristocracy to becoming a devout Muslim and Hajj pilgrim continues to inspire those who seek to understand the profound connections between diverse cultures and faiths.

Additional reading

The lonely Highland grave that links Scotland with Makkah