TEHRAN (IQNA) – The event of Ashura and the values that Imam Hussein (AS) embodied can inspire us to stand up for what is right, resist oppression and tyranny, and live with dignity and honor in our contemporary society.
By Arman Saadat
In the broad spectrum of human existence, there exist universal principles that transcend cultures, religions, and time periods. These principles, intrinsic to the human experience, include the pursuit of justice, the recognition of excellence, and the desire for happiness. The commemoration of Ashura and the actions of Imam Hussein (AS) serve as profound examples of these principles in action. The timeless lessons imparted by Imam Hussein (AS) on the day of Ashura offer a unique perspective that can guide humanity in the present era.
What happened on Ashura?
Imam Hussein (AS), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, the second Umayyad caliphate who had usurped the throne by inheritance and was opposed and condemned by many noble people including Imam Hussein (AS) himself.
In 680, Imam Hussain, residing in Mecca, received many letters from the people of Kufa, a city in Iraq, begging him to come and save them from the tyranny of Yazid. Imam Hussein (AS) sent his cousin Muslim bin Aqil, to Kufa as his representative. He told Ibn Aqil to verify the sincerity of the Kufan pledge and report back.
But the events that followed made Ibn Aqil believe that the Kufans were ready to support Imam Hussein (AS), and he sent a letter, confirming their eagerness, so he decided to go to Iraq.
However, Yazid who heard about the uprising in Kufa appointed the notorious Ubaidullah bin Ziyad, as the governor of Kufa, to replace Noman bin Bashir.
Ibn Ziyad terrorized the Kufans and announced severe penalties and death for anyone who sided with Imam Hussein (AS). The faithless Kufans, overcome by fear and awe, deserted Ibn Aqil, who was later captured and beheaded by Ibn Ziyad’s men. On his way to Kufa, Imam Hussein (AS) learned about Ibn Aqil’s martyrdom. But he continued to march towards Kufa.
He was stopped by Ibn Ziyad’s army before reaching the city and forced to camp in the barren land of Karbala. Negotiations failed as Imam Hussein rejected to surrender to Yazid.
Ibn Ziyad’s army cut off Imam Hussein (AS) camp’s water supply three days before the battle started between the two armies.
On Muharram 10, 61 (falling on October 10, 680), Imam Hussein (AS) and all his 72 faithful companions were brutally killed while the women and children of his family were taken captive.
Imam Hussein (AS): The Embodiment of Self-Sacrifice and Justice
Imam Hussein (AS), a notable figure in Islamic history, is widely revered for his courageous stand against oppression. His selfless sacrifice in the Battle of Karbala, where he gave his life for the greater good of society, epitomizes the highest form of altruism. This selfless act of putting others before oneself and upholding the value of human life is a principle universally revered and can serve as a beacon for all those seeking justice and freedom.
Imam Hussein's (AS) actions were driven by a profound respect for human dignity. He demonstrated that every individual, regardless of their social status or background, has inherent rights, a voice, and the freedom to express their opinions. His message emphasized the power that each individual possesses to shape their own destiny.
In the context of today's world, this message reverberates with even more clarity and relevance. As societies strive to uphold democratic values, the principles espoused by Imam Hussein (AS) provide a timeless template for advocating individual rights and social justice.
Imam Hussein's (AS) respect for human freedom is another seminal lesson emanating from the event of Ashura. On the eve of the battle, he urged his companions to use the cover of darkness to escape, thereby preserving their lives. He didn't want to impose his decision on anyone, emphasizing that the choice to stay or leave was entirely theirs.
This act underscores the importance of personal choice and agency in life. It serves as a reminder that coercion has no place in religion and that individuals should be free to make their own decisions. This principle aligns with the belief that true spirituality and religiosity flourish in an environment of freedom.
The Imperative of Selflessness in Upholding Values
Another significant takeaway from Ashura is the virtue of selflessness. Imam Hussein (AS) did not merely advocate for societal values; he willingly sacrificed his life to uphold them. In contrast, individuals today often champion values that align with their interests, abandoning them when faced with personal hardship.
Imam Hussein's (AS) actions serve as a stark reminder of the importance of consistency in upholding one's principles, even in the face of adversity. His sacrifice underscores the fact that the preservation of human and societal values often necessitates personal sacrifices.
The lessons of Ashura and the actions of Imam Hussein (AS) offer timeless insights into the importance of justice, self-sacrifice, freedom, and the value of human life. These principles, still relevant in the modern world, serve as a compass guiding humanity towards a more equitable and compassionate society. As we navigate the complexities of our modern era, we can look to the lessons of Ashura to remind us of the importance of upholding the dignity and worth of every individual.
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