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Highlights of
Karbala
Think not of those who are slain in God's
way as dead. Nay, they live, finding their
sustenance in the presence of their Lord.
Holy Quran (3:169)
The events of
Karbala reflect the collision of the good
versus the evil, the virtuous versus the
wicked, and the collision of Imam Hussain
(the head of virtue) versus Yazid (the head
of impiety). Imam Hussain (pbuh) was a
revolutionary person, a righteous man, the
religious authority, the Imam of Muslim
Ummah (nation). As the representative of his
grandfather Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Imam
Hussain's main concern was to safeguard and
protect Islam and guide fellow Muslims. On
the other hand, the staying power of the
rulers (Muawiya and his son Yazid) depended
solely on the might of the sword. They used
brute force to rule over the Muslim empire
even by all possible illicit means.
The mission of Imam Hussain (pbuh) is
distinctly unique, political and religious
revolutionary movement in the history of
World. His was a tremendous undertaking
which still reverberates throughout the
Muslim nation. He has been a propelling
force and a seminal element in events
throughout Islamic history, particularly in
the sphere of Jihad (the holy struggle in
the way of Almighty God). Imam Hussain's
example has remained vividly alive for
generations and centuries. His uprising,
movement and ideals still have a deep impact
on the conscience and awareness of the
Muslim empire.
The Holy Prophet (pbuh) is reported to have
said: "The best of Jihad is that of a word
of right spoken to an unjust ruler."
Imam Hussain (pbuh) witnessed the
deteriorating political and social situation
and clearly recognized that the general
policy of the authorities did not abide with
Islamic principles. He was aware of the
Ummah's numerous and painful afflictions,
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