My hero

The Story of Imam Hussein: A Stand for Justice and the Atrocities of Karbala

Dear friends,

I would like to share a powerful and tragic story from Islamic history, a story that speaks to humanity, justice, and the fight against oppression.

In the year 680 AD, Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, took a bold stand against tyranny and injustice. He refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid ibn Mu'awiya, a ruler known for his corruption and oppression. Imam Hussein chose to resist injustice, even though he knew it would cost him his life.

Accompanied by only 72 companions, including his family and children, Imam Hussein traveled towards Kufa but was intercepted by Yazid’s army and forced to stop in Karbala (modern-day Iraq). Imam Hussein and his followers were surrounded by an army of 30,000 soldiers, outnumbered and surrounded.

In Karbala, the atrocities committed by Yazid’s army against Imam Hussein and his companions were unimaginable. They cut off their water supply, leaving them to suffer from thirst under the blazing sun for days. Despite this, Imam Hussein and his followers remained steadfast, refusing to surrender or compromise their principles.

On the 10th of Muharram (Ashura), the brutalities escalated. Yazid’s forces began systematically killing Imam Hussein’s companions, one by one. The horrific crimes included:

1. The martyrdom of innocent children – The soldiers killed Hussein’s six-month-old son, Ali Asghar, by shooting an arrow through his throat while he was in his father’s arms, asking for water.

2. The killing of family members – Imam Hussein’s brother Abbas was killed while trying to bring water to the camp. His arms were severed, and he was struck down as he returned, exhausted and without water.

3. The desecration of bodies – After the death of Imam Hussein, his body was brutally trampled by horses and struck with spears. His head was severed, and it was sent to Yazid in a display of cruelty. The soldiers also mutilated the bodies of the martyrs, showing a complete disregard for human dignity.

4. Captivity of women and children – After the brutal killings, the women and children of Imam Hussein’s family were taken as prisoners, shackled, and forced to endure humiliation. They were paraded through the streets of Kufa and Damascus, led by Yazid’s soldiers.

The Courage of Abbas ibn Ali: A Symbol of Loyalty and Bravery

Dear friends,

In the tragic story of Karbala, one of the most remarkable figures is Abbas ibn Ali, the half-brother of Imam Hussein. Abbas is remembered not only for his bravery but also for his unmatched loyalty and sacrifice.

Abbas was known for his fierce courage and skill in battle. On the day of Ashura, when the situation became increasingly dire, Imam Hussein entrusted Abbas with a crucial task: to bring water to the camp, which had been deprived of it for days. Abbas, with his exceptional strength, courage, and determination, bravely rode to the Euphrates River to retrieve water.

However, despite the intense thirst, Abbas did not drink a single drop of water. His loyalty to his brother and the cause of justice was far greater than his own need. He filled the water carrier and set out to return to the camp, only to face the enemies' forces.

As Abbas attempted to bring the water back, he faced a barrage of attacks from Yazid’s army. Despite being attacked from all sides, Abbas continued his mission. But in a moment of tragedy, Abbas was struck by enemy soldiers, first losing one of his arms, then the other. Despite this, he still held onto the water container with his teeth, determined to fulfill his mission.

Finally, Abbas was overwhelmed by the enemy forces. He was fatally struck with a blow to the head and fell from his horse. In his final moments, he called out to Imam Hussein, who rushed to his side, but it was too late. Abbas, the "standard-bearer" of Karbala, had fallen.

The courage of Abbas ibn Ali is remembered as a symbol of loyalty, selflessness, and bravery. His refusal to abandon his brother, his family, and his principles—even in the face of certain death—continues to inspire millions. His story is not just one of valor in battle but also of the profound strength that comes from standing for what is right, even when the odds are insurmountable.

Though he lost his life, his message lived on-a message of freedom, justice, and standing for what is right, even in the face of great suffering. Today, his story continues to inspire millions around the world, regardless of their religion or background. This is not just a story for Muslims; it is a story for all of us-a reminder that standing up for truth and justice is always worth the sacrifice.

For your information, the story contains many sacrifices, some of which I did not write. You can search for the full story.