IMAM Husain’s life and sacrifice are replete with lessons about life; lessons that we need to learn more than ever before. Lessons we think each one of us- students, parents, teachers and every other member of the society must learn from the amazing life of Imam Husain (AS). He was a 7th century revolutionary leader who took the ultimate stand for moral justice. His legacy inspires millions to strive for a just society. Imam Husain (AS), saw the injustice that was imposed upon the society of his time and realized how the rulers called Islam was, far from the true teachings of Islam. Oppression, tyranny, unjust use of public property, etc made life miserable for people. So, instead of remaining silent and doing nothing, he decided to improve the society. He practiced courage in standing up against what was wrong, and in accepting the dangers of his decision. He never gave up his human virtues for the sake of furthering his cause.
While his enemy was impatient to start the war, he did his best to prevent it by negotiating and bringing awareness to them. Imam Husain (AS), tried to show that being just is far more important than being courageous. If everyone is just, then no right would be taken away, and you do not need to be courageous to stand up against it. Imam Husain (AS) sacrificed his life and family, did not surrender to the injustice his enemies were imposing, and never cared about his fame but was entirely devoted to Allah’s cause. For Husain (AS), nothing was more important than Allah’s satisfaction and reviving the true Islamic teachings and message of peace in the corrupt society of his time. He was courageous for the right cause. Neither was he after usurping the throne, nor manipulating people for his own sake.
A key lesson and one that is probably the most important that we must learn from Imam Husain’s (AS) life should be that of exercising patience, even when things are not going your way. No matter the enormity of challenges, Imam Husain (AS) was not the one to back down from his rightful stance. He was offered to swear allegiance to Yazid in return for security of his life and his family on several occasions, even at Karbala. Yet, Imam Husain (AS) knew it would defy the principles of Islam and stayed firm on his decision of not doing so. Even when faced with death. Even when threatened with the life of his family and children. Such is a steely determination we must learn to develop if we are to succeed in life.
Imam Husain (AS) forgave even the worst of his enemies. Despite him leading Imam Husain (AS) and his party to the battle site of Karbala, Imam Husain (AS) did not hesitate once when Hurr bin Yazid realized his mistake and sought repentance. Imagine any of us in a situation one tenth as bad as that of Imam Husain (AS). Would we be willing to forgive so easily? Imam Husain (AS) showed the world he was the strongest among mere mortals.
Imam Husain (AS) did not want Yazid ruthless forces to attack his city and risk civilian lives. Along with his family and 72 companions, Imam Husain (AS) made his way towards the East seeking to gain support for his uprising whilst avoiding violence. It was on this journey Hussain, his family and companions were forced to stop by an army of over 30,000, on the hot plains of a land called Karbala (present day Iraq). Yazid’s forces cut the supply of water for Imam Husain’s family and companions, including women and children. In 680 AD, after three days of no water and food in the scorching heat, Imam Husain stood and fell valiantly in what is known as The Battle of Karbala. Imam Husain died defending those around him being oppressed and whilst standing for his principles. Through this tragic end but heroic act of sacrifice, Imam Husain was ultimately victorious. His death became the catalyst for revolutionary change and led to the collapse of Yazid’s rule. Imam Husain stood by his principles till the very end, and his legacy continues to inspire millions around the world.
From civil rights leaders to volunteers at local charities centuries later, people across the world are empowered by his selflessness, courage and determination. The story of Imam Husain stands as an inspiration to all, no matter what colour or creed. Imam Husain (AS) laid the foundation of the revolution with his blood and that revolution changed the world forever. He could have saved his life as well as that of his family and companions by accepting Yazid’s allegiance. But this would have been at the cost of ruining their dignity and living a life humiliation. Never would he put up with such disgrace. So a little at a time, let us ourselves strive to gain that strength. Let us try to become a little better each day. Let us try to be more like Imam Husain (AS), the greatest martyr the world has ever known.
— The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.
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