The Events of Karbala

بِسۡمِ ٱللهِ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

The following are the events at Karbala as adapted from an article by Sayyid Nurjan Mirahmadi.  The massacre of the family of the Prophet (s.a.w.) occurred on the 10^th Muharram.  The murderers were the soldiers of Yazid ibn Mu’awiyah, each of them Cursed for this heinous act.  Yazid sent ‘Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad, his cousin, with an army to kill Sayyidina Husayn ibn ‘Ali (r.a.) because he feared that Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) would take the caliphate from him.  But he did not have the courage to admit it after the fact, particularly because he feared the people would revolt.  And they did.  So he sent his army to besiege and sack Makkah and Madina, killing hundreds of the swahabah, and raping thousands of their women.  The Ka’bah itself was damaged with fire.  And the Mosque of the Prophet (s.a.w.), in Madina, was desecrated with camel droppings. 

The following is an account of the events of Karbala, as told by Sunni scholars, from the books of tarikh.  When the army approached closer, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) mounted a camel, kept the Qur’an in front and addressed the enemy forces in the following words: “O people!  Listen to me.  Do not be rash.  Let me admonish you.  Let me say a few words in my justification and let me explain the reason of my arrival here.  If my excuse is reasonable and if you can accept it, do justice in my case.  You would be lucky if you desist from taking arms against me.  Even after hearing me, if you refuse to accept my excuse, I will be ready for you.  Rush upon me all at once.  Do not allow a moment’s respite.  Whatever be the eventual outcome, I repose confidence in Allah (s.w.t.) Who Supports righteous men.” 

When this speech was heard by the female members of the Ahl al-Bayt, there began hue and cry inside the tents.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) asked his brother, Sayyidina ‘Abbas (r.a.) and his son, Imam Abu al-Hasan ‘Ali ibn Husayn Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.), to go and console them for they had yet to weep a lot.  Thereafter, he remarked, “May Allah (s.w.t.) Bless a long life to ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas.”  This was due to the fact that Sayyidina ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (r.a.) had suggested to Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), at Madinah, to leave the women at home, but he had paid no heed to it.  Now, when he heard their hue and cry, it reminded him of the submission of Sayyidina ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (r.a.). 

He resumed his speech: “O people!  Remember my lineage.  Pause to think for a while, who am I.  Take stock in your conscience!  Is it fair for you to kill me and discard the respect due to me?  Am I not the son of your prophet’s daughter, and the son of his cousin?  Was the leader of shuhadah, Hamzah not my father’s uncle?  Is Ja’far ath-Thayyar not my uncle?  Do you not remember the famous tradition of the Prophet (s.a.w.), ‘Chiefs of the youths of Paradise,’ concerning my brother and I?  If my statement is true, it is certainly true, as since the time I am conscious of myself, I have not uttered a lie.  Tell me, is it right for you to receive me with unsheathed swords?  If you do not believe in my word, there are persons among you who can testify to the correctness of my statement.  Ask Jabir ibn ‘Abdullah al-Answari and Abu Sa’id al-Khudri.  Inquire from Sahl ibn Sa’d Sa’di and Zayd ibn al-Arqam.  They can tell you whether they heard the Prophet (s.a.w.) saying this about my brother and I or not.  Should this fact not prevent you from shedding my blood?  By Allah, there is no grandson of the Prophet (s.a.w.) on the surface of the globe at this time except myself.  I am the direct descendant and grandson of your Prophet (s.a.w.).  Do you want to kill me, because I have taken the life of anyone?  Did I shed anyone’s blood?  Have I usurped the wealth of anyone?  Tell me what is the matter?  What is my fault?” 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) repeatedly asked this question, but nobody answered.  At last, he called out, by name, the prominent persons of Kufa and inquired whether they had not written to him: “Fruits are ripe, the soil has become green, and the canals are overflowing.  If you come, you will come to the great army of your own; come soon.” 

Thereupon those persons opened their mouth and said that they had never written to that effect.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) expressed surprise at it and cried out, “What a blatant lie!”  Then Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) again called out loudly, “O people!  As you dislike me, it is better that I am released, I shall go back.” 

At this juncture, one of the Kufans named Qays ibn Ash’ats asked, “Is it not advisable that you should surrender yourself to your cousins?  They will mete out the treatment to you worthy of your position.  You will receive no harm from them.” 

To this, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) answered, “All of you are tarred with the same brush.  O man!  Do you want that Bani Hashim should demand ransom for one more life, in addition to that of Muslim ibn ‘Aqil?  No, I shall not surrender myself to them with humiliation.” 

Hadhrat Zhahir ibn al-Yaqin (r.a.) advanced towards the enemy on his horse and shouted, “O Kufans, fear from the Wrath of Allah.  It is a duty of every Muslim to advise his brother Muslim.  Look!  We are all Muslims until this time.  We believe in the same religion and the same shari’ah.  So long as the swords are unsheathed, you deserve our advice and well-wishes.  But when the swords are drawn, the mutual respect will vanish and shall become two rival groups.  Look!  Allah (s.w.t.) has Tested our faithfulness towards the descendants of the Prophet (s.a.w.).  We call you to the love for Ahl al-Bayt and not to the rivalry of ‘Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad.  Believe you would gain nothing from these rulers.  They would make you blind; they would cut your hands; they would disfigure your faces; they would hang you and would kill the pious men one by one; they have already done this.  The incidents of Hajr ibn ‘Adi and Hani ibn ‘Urwah have not become so old that you have forgotten them.” 

On hearing this, Kufans began to abuse Hadhrat Zhahir ibn al-Yaqin (r.a.) and offered praise for ibn Ziyad.  Their reply was, “By Allah, we shall not go back unless and until we kill Husayn and his companions or produce them before Amir.” 

Hadhrat Zhahir ibn al-Yaqin (r.a.) replied, “Well!  If the son of Fathimah az-Zahrah is not comparable with the son of Sumiyyah,” referring to ibn Ziyad, “you should pay this much regard to the progeny of the Prophet (s.a.w.) that you would not kill him.  Let him talk with his cousin Yazid ibn Mu’awiyah and settle the issue.  I swear by Allah that it is not necessary to shed the blood of Husayn to please Yazid.” 

It is narrated by Shaykh ‘Adi ibn Harmlah (r.a.) that when ibn Sa’d ordered his army to advance, Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid at-Tamimi (r.a.) asked him whether he really wanted to fight against Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  ibn Sa’d replied, “Yes, a battle would be fought in which heads will be cut from shoulders, and hands will be amputated.”  Listening to this, Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) left his own place and proceeded slowly towards Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) camp.  One of his tribe’s men, Muhajir ibn Aws, inquired whether he wanted to attack Husayn (r.a.).  Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) kept quiet.  Suspecting him due to his reticence, Muhajir said, “I never found you in such a state during any war.  If I was asked to name the bravest man in Kufa, I can point out none except you.  But what are you doing now?” 

Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) grew serious and replied, “By Allah, I am making a choice between Hell and Paradise.  By Allah, I have selected Paradise, no matter if I am cut to pieces.”  With those words, he whipped his horse and joined Hadhrat Husayn’s (r.a.) army.  He presented himself before Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) and said, “O Grandson of the Prophet!  I am the same unfortunate person who prevented you from going back.  I pursued you along the way and compelled you to encamp at this place.  I never suspected that these people will not concede your terms and will go to such an extreme in your matter.  By Allah, had I known that they will act in this way, I would have never done what I did earlier.  I am ashamed of the misdeed I have committed and come to you for repentance.  I want to sacrifice myself, and I think that would serve the purpose of atonement.” 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) very kindly invoked Divine Blessings for him and said, “May Allah (s.w.t.) Accept your repentance and Forgive you.  As your mother has named you ‘Hur’, you are a free man and, insha’Allah, you will remain free both in this world and in the Hereafter.” 

Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) then addressed the enemies and said that they should have accepted any of the conditions offered by Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), so that Allah (s.w.t.) might Save them from an ordeal.  They said that his question would be answered by their commander, ‘Umar ibn Sa’d.  ‘Umar said that he himself wished to accept this offer, but his proposal was rejected.  Thereafter, Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) made a passionate speech and put the Kufans to shame for not abiding by their promise.  In reply, they started shooting arrows.  Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) was forced to return to the camp. 

When Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) sincere efforts to bring round the enemy failed, encounter became inevitable.  ‘Umar ibn Sa'd strung his bow and shot an arrow towards the camp of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) saying, “Be witness!  I have shot the first arrow.” 

Yasar and Salam, the slaves of Ziyad ibn Umayyah and ‘Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad came forward and challenged for a single combat, as was the ancient custom of warfare in Arab.  From the Husayni forces, Hadhrat Habib ibn Mazhahir (r.a.), and Hadhrat Barbar ibn Hasir (r.a.) volunteered themselves to meet this challenge but Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) did not permit them to fight.  Then Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Amir al-Kalbi (r.a.) stood up and sought permission to go out.  This man came from Kufa, along with his wife, to support Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  He was a dark-complexioned, tall statured man with broad shoulders, and strong limbs, and looked like a warrior in all respects.  Having a look at him, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) was pleased to observe that he was a true warrior, and gladly permitted him to meet the challenge.  In a few brief exchanges, Hadhrat ‘Abdullah (r.a.) killed both his opponents.  His wife, Hadhrat Umm Wahab (r.a.), stood close by with a staff in her hand, inciting her husband to fight.  Then suddenly, she became so passionate that she started advancing towards the battlefield. 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) was deeply impressed by her enthusiasm and said, “May Allah (s.w.t.) Reward you for support of the Ahl al-Bayt, but fighting is not meant for ladies.” 

After that, the right wing of the army of ibn Sa’d launched an attack and as they drew nearer, frontline of the Husayni forces knelt down and straightened their spears towards the horses.  The horses were frightened.  The enemy mounted troopers could not advance, and were repulsed with heavy losses. 

A full-fledged battle ensued then.  In the beginning, the chivalrous men from either side came out in response to the challenge and fight with each other.  Every challenger of the rival army who came forward was killed by the partisans of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  On seeing this discouraging start, ‘Umar ibn al-Hajjaj, who was in command of the enemy’s right wing, shouted, “O fools!  First realise whom you are fighting with.  These people are not afraid of death!  In this way, you will be killed one by one.  They are but a handful of souls.  You can kill them even with stones.” 

‘Umar ibn Sa’d approved of the suggestion, and disallowing individual duels, ordered for a general attack.  Both the sides came to grips and then ensued a hand-to-hand fight.  After some time when the fighting was stopped it was found that a Husayni hero, Hadhrat Muslim ibn Awsja (r.a.) was writhing in blood and sand.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) ran towards him.  He was still breathing.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) lamented, “Muslim!  May Allah (s.w.t.) Shower His Choicest Blessings upon you: Some of them have already died and others are awaiting death.  But stand firmly on the right path and do not change their minds.”  Hadhrat Muslim ibn Awsja (r.a.) was the first martyr from the side of Husayni forces in this battle. 

After the right wing, the left wing also joined in attack with Shimr as its commander.  The Husayni right wing resisted it manfully.  There were only thirty-two horsemen in this wing but wherever they struck, they caused a great loss to the enemy.  Soon the enemy realised that with the present strength of forces at their disposal, the Husayni forces could not prevail for long.  They sent for reinforcement and soon five hundred archers came to their succour.  The archers shot at the horsemen, crippling their horses, and forcing them to dismount. 

Ayyub ibn Musharrah reported that he had himself injured the horse of Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.), piercing it with his arrows.  Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) jumped to the ground.  He was holding a sword in his hand, and he was looking like a lion.  His sword was rampant, and he was reciting, “It does not matter if you have made my horse useless.  I am of noble blood and am braver than a fierce lion.” 

The fighting was in its full swing.  It was now midday, but neither side seemed to have gained the upper hand.  The Husayni army had pitched the tents at one place and the enemy could only attack from one side.  When ‘Umar ibn Sa’d realised that he could not succeed in this way, he deputed some of his men to uproot the tents.  Only four or five men from the Husayni army pushed them back.  Failing in this attempt, ‘Umar ibn Sa’d ordered his men to set the tents on fire.  His soldiers rushed towards tents carrying fire in their hands.  The Husayni forces were perturbed due to this grave situation, but Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) said, “No matter, let them burn the tents.  It will be better for us because they cannot attack from the rear.” 

At this stage, Hadhrat Zhahir ibn al-Yaqin (r.a.) launched a severe attack on Shimr’s forces and put them to rout, but this state did not remain for long.  In a short time, the enemy gathered their strength.  Now the precarious position of the Husayni forces was evident.  Several warriors and renowned leaders had been killed.  Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Amir al-Kalbi (r.a.) was one of them.  His brave wife, Hadhrat Umm Wahab (r.a.), was sitting in the battlefield and was wiping dust from the face of her martyred husband saying repeatedly, “Greetings to you for attaining an abode in the Paradise.”  Shimr saw her and killed her. 

Hadhrat Abu Tsumamah ‘Amr ibn ‘Abdullah as-Samdi (r.a.) realised his helplessness and said to Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), “The enemy is approaching fast.  By Allah, I shall defend you even at the cost of my life.  The enemy will not harm you as long as I live.  However, it is my earnest desire to offer my prayers before meeting my Rabb.” 

On hearing this, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) raised his head and said, “Ask the enemy to give us respite for offering prayers.”  But the enemy did not accede to their requests, and the battle continued. 

Hadhrat Habib ibn Mazhahir (r.a.), the commander of the right wing of the Husayni forces, was also killed.  Next was Hadhrat Hur ibn Yazid (r.a.) who advanced straight into the enemy forces reciting the following verses: “I have sworn no to be killed until I have killed them.  I shall die only while I am advancing.  I shall inflict heavy casualties with my sword.  I shall neither fear no shall I run away.” 

The time for zhuhr passed.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) offered swalah al-khawf along with his companions.  After the swalah, the pressure of the enemy increased.  Hadhrat Zhahir ibn al-Yaqin (r.a.), commander of the left wing, took command of the army and attacked the enemy reciting the following verses: “I am Zhahir, son of al-Yaqin.  I shall keep them away from Husayn with the point of my sword.” 

After dispersing the lines of rival forces, he returned and putting his hand on Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) shoulder and said the following in verse: “Advance, Allah (s.w.t.) has Guided you to the right path.  You will be meeting today with your grandfather, the Prophet (s.a.w.), and Hasan, and ‘Ali al-Murtadhah, the young martyr, Ja’far ath-Thayyar, and the living martyr, Asadullah Hamzah.”  Then he turned towards the enemy and put a number of them to death until he himself was killed. 

The companions of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) realised that it was quite impossible for them to stop the enemy.  Therefore, they all decided to sacrifice themselves one by one.  Accordingly, the Ghiffari brothers moved forward, and began to fight with the enemy.  While fighting they were reciting the following verses: “Bani Ghaffar and tribes of Nazhar have known fully well that we will cut the vicious people into pieces with our glittering swords.  O people!  Support the pious ones with their spears and their swords.” 

Thereafter, the two Jabri brothers came forward weeping bitterly.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) said to them, “O sons of my brother, why are you weeping?  By Allah, I believe you will be killed in a few minutes.” 

They replied that they were not shedding tears due to the danger to their lives, but it made them weep seeing that the enemy had surrounded them, and they could do nothing to save him.  Then both of them began to fight courageously, chanting, “as-Salaamu’alayka, O Son of the Prophet!” 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) replied, “Wa ‘alaykum as-Salaam wa Rahmatullah.”  They were also killed. 

After that, Hadhrat Hanzal ibn Asad (r.a.) stood before the enemy shouting, “O people!  I fear for you the same disaster as befell upon the nations of ‘Aad and Tsamud.  I fear you may be destroyed.  O People!  Do not slay Husayn lest Allah (s.w.t.) should Send calamity upon you.”  He fought manfully until he was martyred. 

The companions had perished.  It was now the turn of the Bani Hashim and the family of the Prophet (s.a.w.).  First, Hadhrat ‘Ali Akbar (r.a.) came into the battlefield and attacked the enemy, reciting the following verses: “I am ‘Ali ibn Husayn ibn ‘Ali.  By the Rabb of the Ka’bah, we are more deserving being nearest to the Prophet.  By Allah, the son of the man whose father is unknown cannot rule over us.” 

He fought heroically but was killed by the sword of Marrah ibn Manqaz al-‘Abadi.  Sayyidatina Zaynab bint Fathimah az-Zahrah (r.a.) ran from her tent crying, “Ah!  My brother!  Ah!  My nephew.”  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) caught hold of her hand and took her to her tent.  Then, he lifted the body of Hadhrat ‘Ali Akbar (r.a.) and placed it before the tent. 

Thereafter, other scions of Hashimite blood and members of the Ahl al-Bayt came to the forefront, and sacrificed their lives one by one.  A graceful young man appeared on the scene.  He was wearing a simple dress and putting sandals on his feet.  He was a very beautiful person, and his face was shining like a moon.  He came out like a roaring lion and attacked the enemy fiercely.  Amr ibn Sa’d al-Azdi struck his head with a sword.  The young man cried, “O Uncle!” and fell upon the ground.  On hearing his cries, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) attacked the killer.  The assailant raised his hand in his defence, but his hand was cut off from the elbow.  Wounded, the killer called for help.  Horsemen coming to his aid rode over him in the confusion. 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) stood near the young man who was in the agony of death.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) said, “Disaster seize them who killed you.  What answer will they give to your grandfather on the Day of Resurrection?  By Allah, it is heart-rending for your uncle that you cried for help, but he could not save you from the clutches of the enemy.  Alas!  Enemies of your uncle have increased in number over his friends.”  Then he took the body in his lap and pressed it close to his chest.  He brought the body to the tent with its feet trailing on the ground and laid it beside the body of Hadhrat ‘Ali Akbar (r.a.).  He was Hadhrat al-Qasim ibn Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.). 

While Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) was standing there, he was apprised of the birth of a son.  The babe was put in his arms and as he was calling the adzan in his ears, an arrow pierced the throat of the infant.  The infant was killed instantly.  He pulled out the arrow from the throat of his son.  The blood gushed out of the wound.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) took a handful of it and smeared the body of the infant.  He then said, “By Allah, you are dearer in the Sight of Allah (s.w.t.) than the she-camel of Swalih (a.s.).  And Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) has more prestige in the Sight of Allah (s.w.t.) than Swalih (a.s.).  O Allah!  You have Withheld Your Succour to us.  Do what You Deem Fit for us.” 

Most of the prominent personalities of Bani Hashim and the Ahl al-Bayt were martyred.  Historians have recorded the names of the following shuhadah: 

1. Hadhrat Muhammad ibn Abu Sa’id ibn ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

2. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Muslim ibn ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

3. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

4. Hadhrat ‘Abd ar-Rahman ibn ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

5. Hadhrat Ja’far ibn ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

6. Hadhrat Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah ibn Ja’far ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

7. Hadhrat ‘Abbas ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

8. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

9. Hadhrat ‘Utsman ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

10. Hadhrat Muhammad ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

11. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

12. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ibn al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

13. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

14. Hadhrat Qasim ibn al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

15. Hadhrat ‘Ali Akbar ibn al-Husayn ibn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.)

16. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn al-Husayn ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.) 

Now it was the Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) turn to sacrifice himself for the Cause of Allah (s.w.t.).  He was standing alone in the battlefield, but no one dared attack him.  The enemy tried a number of times to kill Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), but nobody was willing to take the responsibility of killing the grandson of the Prophet (s.a.w.).  At last, Shimr started provoking his army men to attack.  They encircled Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  Now there were only women and a few teenagers in the camp of the Ahl al-Bayt.  A teenage boy saw Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) in danger.  He picked up a wooden stick and ran out to help him.  Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) saw him and caught hold of him.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) also said to his sister, “Stop him.  Do not let him come out.” 

The boy forced himself loose from her grip and ran to the side of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  When Bahrayn ibn Ka’b drew his sword to strike at Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), the boy remonstrated, “O wicked one!  Will you kill my uncle?”  Bahrayn brought down his sword on the boy who took the blow on his arm.  His hand was severed.  The boy cried out in pain.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) clasped him to his bosom and consoled him saying, “Be patient, my child!  Let this suffering be the means of Reward from Allah (s.w.t.).  Allah (s.w.t.) will Join you with your elders: Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.), ‘Ali ibn Abu Thalib, Hamzah, Ja’far, and Hasan ibn ‘Ali.” 

Eventually, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) alone faced his enemies.  They now pressed close to the Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), who began to wield his sword right and left and forced them to retreat.  ‘Abdullah ibn Amar who was himself taking part in the fight reported that he attacked Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) with his spear and might have killed him, but he desisted, thinking not to carry the sin on his head.  He said, “Husayn was being attacked from all sides, but he made the enemy to retreat.  He was wearing a shirt and a turban.  By Allah, I have not seen such a disheartened man whose family members were killed before his eyes, so valiant, bold, resolute, and steadfast.  The position was that the attackers were running right and left like sheep before a lion.”  This continued for some time. 

Meanwhile, Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.), the sister of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) came out of her tent and cried, “O ‘Umar, would that Abu ‘Abdullah be killed before your eyes.” ‘Umar turned his face, but tears began to roll down from his eyes upon his cheeks and beard. 

While fighting, Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) felt very thirsty, and went towards the Euphrates to quench his thirst, but the enemy did not allow him to drink water.  Suddenly, his throat was pierced by an arrow.  He pulled out the arrow and threw the blood which oozed out of his throat towards the sky saying, “O Allah!  I complain only to You.  See how the people are treating the grandson of Your Messenger.” 

Then Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) turned towards his camp, but he was resisted by Shimr and his companions.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) realised that their intent was to plunder the tents.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) said, “If you have deserted your religion and are not afraid of the Last Day, at least you should respect the worldly morals.  Keep safe my tents from your vagabonds and debauchees.” 

Shimr replied, “We shall not harm your tents.” 

It was getting late.  Had the enemy wished it, they could have killed Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) earlier, but nobody was inclined to take the responsibility of this heinous crime.  At last, Shimr the Damned cursed his army men and shouted, “May you meet with ill-fates.  What are you waiting for?  Why do you not kill Husayn?”  The enemy surrounded him again. 

Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) said to Shimr, “Why are you inciting your army to kill me.  By Allah, Allah (s.w.t.) would not be displeased on anyone else’s murder so much as of mine.” 

Zur’ah ibn Sharikh at-Tamimi injured Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) left arm and then struck a blow on his shoulder.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) swerved due weakness.  People being frightened moved to the rear, but Sinan ibn Anas an-Najafi came forward and attacked Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) with a spear.  Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) fell on the ground.  Shimr ordered a savage to sever Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) head from his body but he could not do it.  Sinan ibn Anas, in a mood of indignation, cursed him; dismounted from his horse and cut off Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) head.  Imam Ja’far ibn Muhammad asw-Swadiq (q.s.) narrated that after the murder of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), thirty-three injuries of swords and thirty-four wounds of arrow and spear were found on his body. 

Sinan ibn Anas was in a state of confusion after killing Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.).  He did not allow anyone to come near the body.  He was running to and fro lest someone else should take the severed head away.  The severed head was handed over to Khuli ibn Yazid Asbhi.  He then ran to ‘Umar ibn Sa’d’s tent shouting “Load me with gold and silver for I have killed a great king; I have killed him whose parents are most venerable, and who is the best among his lineage at present.” 

‘Umar ibn Sa’d called him into the tent and showed his indignation.  “By Allah, you are insane!”  Then striking him with his stick, he said. “O mad man!  Do not say so.  You are saying a thing which if it comes to the notice of ibn Ziyad, he will definitely have you killed.” 

After the murder, the Kufans took off the clothes of the body of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) and then rushed to his tents.  Imam ‘Ali ibn Husayn Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) was lying sick in the bed.  Shimr reached along with some soldiers and asked, “May we not also kill him,” but some of his companions dissuaded him, saying, “Will you kill even the children?”  Meanwhile, ‘Umar ibn Sa’d arrived and ordered that no one should enter the ladies’ tents or molest them.  If someone had plundered anything, he should return it forthwith. 

On hearing these words, Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) said in his ailing voice, “’Umar ibn Sa’d!  May Allah (s.w.t.) Reward you for this act of kindness.  Your orders have saved us from the culprits.” 

‘Umar ibn Sa’d ordered that Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) body be trampled over by the horses. He called for volunteers.  Ten men came forward and trampled the body.  In this battle, seventy-two men of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) were martyred, while eighty-eight of the Kufans were slain. 

The following day, ‘Umar ibn Sa’d left the battlefield of Kufa taking the women and children of the Ahl al-Bayt with him as prisoners.  Qara’ ibn Qays, an eyewitness, narrated that when these ladies saw the mangled corpses of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) and that of their relatives and his companions, they could not restrain their grief and lamentation.  Qara’ could not forget the bewailing of Sayyidatina Zaynab bint Fathimah (r.a.): “O Muhammad!  May the blessings and salutations of the angels in heaven be upon you.  Behold!  Your Husayn is lying in blood and sand in the desert.  His body has been cut to pieces.  Your daughters have been made prisoners.  Your progeny has been killed and is lying in dust.”  Qara’ ibn Qays added further that there was no eye that did not shed tears on hearing this lamentation. 

All the Husaynis killed in the battlefield had their heads severed.  These heads were seventy-two.  Shimr, ibn al-Ash'ats, ‘Umar ibn al-Hajjaj and Gharmara ibn Qays took all these heads to ‘Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad.  Hamid ibn Muslim who accompanied Khuli ibn Yazid while carrying the head of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) to Kufa reported that when Sayyidina Husayn’s (r.a.) head was placed before ibn Ziyad, he repeatedly struck his stick on the lips.  On seeing this, Sayyidina Zayd ibn al-Arqam (r.a.) stood up and admonished him not to do so, as he had seen the Prophet (s.a.w.) kissing these lips.  He then began to weep bitterly.  ibn Ziyad got annoyed and said, “May Allah (s.w.t.) Make you weep!  Had you not been decrepit, I would certainly have put you to death.” 

Sayyidina Zayd ibn al-Arqam (r.a.) left the meeting, saying, “O Arabs!  Henceforth, you are slaves.  You have killed ibn Fathimah.  You have appointed ibn Marjanah,” referring to ibn Ziyad, “as your ruler.  He puts your noble men to death and enslaves your pious persons.  You have chosen humiliation.  May Allah (s.w.t.) Destroy them who accept humiliation.” 

When the women and children of the Ahl al-Bayt were brought before ibn Ziyad, Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) was wearing ordinary clothes and was surrounded by her maids.  ibn Ziyad inquired as to whom she was, but no one responded.  When he inquired for the third time, a maid servant replied, “She is Zaynab bint Fathimah.” 

Thereupon, ibn Ziyad shouted, “Praise be to Allah (s.w.t.) Who has disgraced and destroyed you and brought dishonour to your name.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) replied, “All praise is due to the Allah (s.w.t.) Who Honoured us by Raising the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) amongst us and Purified us.  Only the wicked and vicious are disgraced.” 

ibn Ziyad said, “Do you not see how Allah has Treated your family?” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) replied, “Death was their fate, so they met with death.  Allah (s.w.t.) will Gather you and them together very soon, and then you can question each other in His Court.” 

ibn Ziyad said, “Allah has rejoiced me with the death of your arrogant leader and the rebels of your family.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) tried to restrain herself but could not suppress her tears and said, “By Allah, you have killed my leader, destroyed my family, slashed my branches, and cut off my roots.  If this rejoices your beard, you may rejoice over it.” 

ibn Ziyad smiled and said: “Bravo!  This is heroism.  Your father was a poet as well as a hero.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) replied, “What a woman has to do with heroism?  My misfortune had made me unmindful of heroism.  What I say comes out of my mouth with a burning heart.” 

ibn Ziyad was enraged.  Seeing him in this condition, ‘Umar ibn Harts said, “May Allah ennoble the amir!  She is merely a woman.  A woman’s utterance should be taken lightly.” 

After these bitter exchanges, ibn Ziyad glanced at Imam ‘Ali Zayn al-‘Abidin ibn Husayn ibn ‘Ali (q.s.) who was seriously ill at that time.  ibn Ziyad inquired with regards his name.  He replied, “’Ali ibn Husayn.” 

ibn Ziyad asked with astonishment, “Had ‘Ali ibn Husayn not been killed in the fight.” 

Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) did not reply.  ibn Ziyad asked, “Why do you not speak?” 

Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) replied, “Another brother of mine was named ‘Ali.  People killed him.” 

ibn Ziyad said, “People did not murder him, but Allah has killed him.” 

On this, Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) recited the following: 

سُوۡرَةُ آل عِمرَان

وَمَا ڪَانَ لِنَفۡسٍ أَن تَمُوتَ إِلَّا بِإِذۡنِ ٱللَّهِ كِتَـٰبً۬ا مُّؤَجَّلاً۬‌ۗ ... (١٤٥) 

Nor can a soul die except by Allah’s Leave; the term being fixed as by writing ... (Surah Ali ‘Imran:145) 

On hearing this, ibn Ziyad shouted, “May Allah kill you!  You are also one of them.” 

ibn Ziyad wanted to kill him, but Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) cried impatiently, “I implore you, in the Name of Allah (s.w.t.), not to kill the boy.  In case you are bent upon to kill the boy, kill me also along with him.” 

Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) said in a loud voice, “O ibn Ziyad!  If you have even the remotest kinship with these ladies, send them after I am killed under the escort of a pious man who should treat them gently in accordance with principles of Islam.” 

ibn Ziyad fixed his gaze upon Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) for a long time and then said to the people, “Relationship is a very delicate sentiment.  By Allah, I am sure she really wants to lay her life along with the lad.  All right, leave the lad and allow him to go with the women of his family.” 

After this incident, ibn Ziyad instructed the citizens to assemble in the main masjid and delivered a sermon before the assembly as follows: “All praise is due to Allah Who Made the truth manifest and has granted victory to the followers of truth.  Yazid ibn Mu’awiyah, the Commander of the Faithful and his party became victorious and defeated Husayn ibn ‘Ali and his companions, the liars.” 

On hearing this, Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Afif Azdi (r.a.), a well-known companion of ‘Ali (k.w.) who had lost his eyesight in the battles of Jamal and Siffin, stood up and shouted, “By Allah!  ibn Marjanah, you are a liar and a son of a liar, and not Husayn ibn ‘Ali.”  ibn Ziyad got annoyed, and put him to death. 

ibn Ziyad fixed the head of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) on a pole and sent it to Yazid through Zahr ibn Qays.  Ghaz ibn Rabi’ah reported that he was sitting in the court of Yazid when Zhahr ibn Qays arrived.  Yazid inquired, “What is the news?” 

Qays replied, “I have brought the news of victory.  Husayn ibn ‘Ali came to us along with eighteen members of the Ahl al-Bayt and sixty supporters.  We stopped them and demanded them to surrender or fight.  They preferred to fight than to submit.  So, we attacked them at the break of dawn.  When swords began to strike their heads, they ran to and fro to save themselves, just as pigeon ran away on seeing the eagle.  Then we put them all to death.  At this moment their dead bodies are lying naked.  Their clothes are stained with blood.  Their dead bodies are rotting in the sun and are serving as food for vultures.” 

On hearing this pathetic story, Yazid’s eyes brimmed with tears, and he said, “I could be pleased at your loyalty even without the murder of Husayn.  May Allah (s.w.t.) Curse the son of ibn Sumiyyah!  By Allah, had I been present there, I would certainly have forgiven Husayn.  May Allah (s.w.t.) Shower his blessings upon Husayn.”  Yazid did not give any reward to the messenger. 

Qasim ibn ‘Abd ar-Rahman, a slave of Yazid, reported that when the heads of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) and that of the Ahl al-Bayt were placed before Yazid, he recited the following verse: “The swords sever the heads of those whom we love, though they were in fact tyrants who neglected the truth.”  Then he said, “By Allah, O Husayn!  Had I been there, I would not have killed you.” 

After sending the head of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), ibn Ziyad dispatched the remaining members of the Ahl al-Bayt to Damascus under the escort of Shimr ibn Zil Jawshan and Mazhhar ibn Tsa’labah.  Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) kept quiet throughout the journey.  He did not speak even a single word to anybody.  On arrival in the court of Yazid, Mazhhar ibn Tsa’labah cried, “O Commander of the Faithful!  I have brought sinners before you.” 

On hearing this, Yazid got annoyed and said, “No woman had given birth to a more vicious and wicked child than Tsa’labah’s mother.” 

Yazid then sent for his Syrian chiefs to his court, and addressing Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.), he said, “O ‘Ali!  It was your father who broke off familial relationship, forgot my rights, tried to oust me from my rule.  You have already seen the results of disobedience committed by your father.” 

In response, Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.) recited the following ayah of the Qur’an: 

سُوۡرَةُ الحَدید

مَآ أَصَابَ مِن مُّصِيبَةٍ۬ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَلَا فِىٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ إِلَّا فِى ڪِتَـٰبٍ۬ مِّن قَبۡلِ أَن نَّبۡرَأَهَآ‌ۚ إِنَّ ذَٲلِكَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ يَسِيرٌ۬ (٢٢) لِّكَيۡلَا تَأۡسَوۡاْ عَلَىٰ مَا فَاتَكُمۡ وَلَا تَفۡرَحُواْ بِمَآ ءَاتَٮٰڪُمۡ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ كُلَّ مُخۡتَالٍ۬ فَخُورٍ (٢٣) 

No misfortune can happen on Earth or in your souls but is Recorded in a Decree before We Bring it into existence: that is Truly Easy for Allah: In order that you may not despair over matters that pass you by, nor exult over favours Bestowed upon you.  For Allah loves not any vainglorious boaster ― (Surah al-Hadid:22-23) 

Yazid was displeased to hear this.  He desired that his son Khalid should give the answer, but Khalid did not understand anything.  Then Yazid, pointing out to Khalid, said: 

سُوۡرَةُ الشّوریٰ

وَمَآ أَصَـٰبَڪُم مِّن مُّصِيبَةٍ۬ فَبِمَا كَسَبَتۡ أَيۡدِيكُمۡ وَيَعۡفُواْ عَن كَثِيرٍ۬ (٣٠) 

Whatever misfortune happens to you, is because of the things your hands have wrought, and for many (of them) He Grants Forgiveness. (Surah ash-Shura’:30) 

Then Yazid turned his attention towards other children and women who were made prisoners.  Yazid was greatly moved at their sad plight and declared, “May Allah Curse ibn Marjanah!  Had he been related to you, he would not have treated you in such a way, nor sent you to me in this pitiable condition.” 

Hadhrat Fathimah bint ‘Ali (r.a.) reported that when they were brought before Yazid, he took pity on them and treated them gently.  She said, “While we were sitting in a court, a Syrian lad stood up and pointing to me requested Yazid to deliver me to him.  I was in my teens and was very pretty.  I began to tremble with fear and caught the hand of my sister, Zaynab, who was older than I.  She was very wise and knew that it could never happen.  She shouted at the lad, ‘You are a wretched fellow.  Neither you nor he,’” pointing at Yazid, “‘has the power to do so.’” 

Yazid got angry at this boldness and said, “You tell a lie.  By Allah, this is within my powers if I wish to do so.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) retorted, “No, Allah (s.w.t.) has not given you this power.  It is otherwise if you leave our party and become apostate by renouncing our religion.” 

Yazid got further annoyed and said, “It was your father and brother who renounced the religion.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) promptly replied, “It was Allah’s (s.w.t.) Religion, my father’s religion, my brother’s religion, my grandfather’s religion from which you, your father, and your grandfather obtained guidance.” 

Yazid shouted. “O enemy of Allah!  You tell a lie.” 

Sayyidatina Zaynab (r.a.) replied, “You have become a ruler by force.  You are misusing your powers with tyranny and are oppressing the people with your force.” 

Hadhrat Fathimah bint ‘Ali (r.a.) added that this turn of conversation made Yazid ashamed because he kept silent then.  The Syrian lad, however, stood up again and repeated his request.  On this, Yazid scolded him, “Be off, O wretch!  May Allah Send death to you!” 

Yazid consulted the Syrian courtiers in regard to the treatment of the prisoners.  Some suggested harsh treatment while Nu’man ibn Bashir said, “They should be treated in the matter the Prophet (s.a.w.) would have treated them on seeing their plight.” 

On hearing this, Hadhrat Fathimah (r.a.) said, “O Yazid!  They are daughters of the Prophet (s.a.w.).”  This reference moved Yazid and his courtiers to tears and he ordered for their lodging in an independent house. 

Meanwhile, the news of the arrival of the prisoners reached Yazid’s household.  His wife, Hind bint ‘Abdullah, put on veil on her face and came out.  She asked Yazid, “O Commander of the Faithful!  Is it the head of Husayn ibn Fathimah, daughter of the Last Messenger of Allah?” 

Yazid replied, “Yes, weep as much as you can on the murder of grandson on the Prophet (s.a.w.) and of the scions of the Hashimi house.  The wicked ibn Ziyad made haste in killing him.  May Allah Kill him too.” 

Thereafter, addressing the courtiers, Yazid said, “Do you know how did it happen?  It was the outcome of Husayn’s error in judgement.  He remained under the impression that his father is better than Yazid’s father; his mother is better than Yazid’s mother; his grandfather is better than Yazid’s grandfather.  And he himself is better than Yazid, hence he deserves more to rule over the country than Yazid.  His stand that his father was better than my father was wrong.  ‘Ali and Mu’awiyah fought with each other, and the world saw who emerged successful in the contest.  As regards his statement that his mother is better than my mother, is undoubtedly true.  Fathimah, daughter of the Prophet (s.a.w.) is decidedly far more prestigious than my mother.  Similarly, his grandfather is certainly better than my grandfather.  By Allah, no one who believes in Allah and the Day of Judgement can grade anyone equal to, not to speak of better than the Prophet (s.a.w.).  Husayn erred in judgement and forgot the following ayat of the Qur’an, which reads as follows: 

سُوۡرَةُ آل عِمرَان

قُلِ ٱللَّهُمَّ مَـٰلِكَ ٱلۡمُلۡكِ تُؤۡتِى ٱلۡمُلۡكَ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتَنزِعُ ٱلۡمُلۡكَ مِمَّن تَشَآءُ وَتُعِزُّ مَن تَشَآءُ وَتُذِلُّ مَن تَشَآءُ‌ۖ بِيَدِكَ ٱلۡخَيۡرُ‌ۖ إِنَّكَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىۡءٍ۬ قَدِيرٌ۬ (٢٦) 

Say: “O Allah!  Lord of Power (and Rule), You Gives power to whom You Please and You Strip off power from whom You Please, You Endue with Honour whom You Please, and You Bring low, whom You Please; in Your Hand is all Good. Verily, over all things You have Power. (Surah Ali ‘Imran:26)”

Then the ladies of the Ahl al-Bayt were sent to Yazid’s palace, where the women of the family of Mu’awiyah began to weep bitterly on seeing their sad plight. 

When Yazid came into the palace, Hadhrat Fathimah bint Husayn asked him, “Have the daughters of the Prophet (s.a.w.) become slave-girls?” 

Yazid replied, “O Daughter of my brother!  It would never happen.” 

Hadhrat Fathimah (r.a.) said, “We have been deprived even of our earrings.” 

Yazid promised to compensate their loss, and he did repay them two-fold or even more. 

Yazid used to take his breakfast and dinner along with Hadhrat ‘Ali ibn Husayn (r.a.).  One day he called Sayyidina Hasan's (r.a.) young child, Hadhrat Amr (r.a.) to him and by way of joking asked him if he would have a duel with his son Khalid who was of his age.  Hadhrat Amr ibn Hasan (r.a.) replied in the affirmative, adding that both of them should be given daggers in their hands and then their duel be watched.  Yazid laughed and holding Hadhrat Amr (r.a.) in his lap, remarked, “A serpent begets a serpent.” 

Yazid entertained the Ahl al-Bayt as his guests for some days.  He used to stay in his private meetings that had he been a little circumspect, he would have kept Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) with him for a few days and considered his terms, though it might have weakened his own position to some extent.  This attitude would have discharged himself of his obligations towards the rights and relations of the Prophet (s.a.w.).  He repeatedly cursed ibn Marjanah who forced Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.) to fight by not agreeing to his terms of participating in jihad on the frontiers or of approaching him for settlement of dispute.  Yazid stated ibn Ziyad had thus made him, Yazid, the victim of people’s wrath. 

While bidding farewell to the Ahl al-Bayt on their departure to Madinah, Yazid assured Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (q.s.), cursing ibn Ziyad: “Had I been there in the battlefield, and had Husayn offered his terms to me, I would certainly have accepted them.  I would have saved his life at all costs, even at the cost of the life of my own son.  But what Allah (s.w.t.) Willed has happened.  Keep in touch with me through correspondence and let me know your needs.”  Afterwards Hadhrat Sakinah (r.a.), the daughter of Sayyidina Husayn (r.a.), used to say that she had not seen any ungrateful person who was more hospitable than Yazid. 

This sad news was the talk of the town before the arrival of the Ahl al-Bayt.  When the party arrived in Madinah, the Hashimi ladies hastened to them, lamenting the loss of lives of the near and dear ones.  The daughter of Sayyidina ‘Aqil ibn Abu Thalib (r.a.) was in the forefront, crying and reciting the following verses: “What excuse will you have to offer to the Prophet (s.a.w.) when he questions you as the last of his followers: ‘How did you treat my family and my progeny after me?’  Some of them are prisoners and the others are writhing in blood.”