The history of Karbala took place on 10th October 680, coinciding with Muharram 10th, 61 AH. So far, we have been hearing about the tragedy of Karbala without fully understanding what happened in this battle between Yazid and Hazrat Imaam Hussain. Many people are willing to die on the days of Ashura in remembrance of Hazrat Imaam Hussain; however, they do not possess complete knowledge of the history of Karbala, yet their inner emotions and spiritual feelings are connected to Hazrat Imaam Hussain. Additionally, we find people on the streets, in cities and villages, contributing cold water and food. This contribution is mostly led by Shia sectarians, which causes violence between factions that hold different beliefs about Hazrat Imaam Hussain. Some argue that this is a moral compass, while others deem it unfair. If our scholars of different sectarian beliefs only spread their respective morals and ideologies about Hazrat Imaam Hussain, who will communicate to the people of this age what transpired in the tragedy of Karbala that is full of resistance, patience, and lessons in the face of adversity?
Claiming to be Hussaini is easier said than done.
Karbala is the site of a heroic and tragic battle located in modern-day Iraq. This is the land where Hazrat Imaam Hussain sacrificed himself and his whole family for Islam, and Karbala itself reinforces the values of courage, steadfastness, and bravery in the face of oppression. Hazrat Imaam Hussain made history for Muslims by refusing to bow down to Yazid; although Yazid banned access to water for Hazrat Imaam Hussain, he continued to resist. The history of Karbala not only symbolizes resistance but also encourages individuals to stand against oppression wherever falsehood is valued over truth. It urges us to stand for our rights and to sacrifice our lives when the oppressors of our time commit injustices.
Each year, Muslims commemorate the tragedy of Karbala in distinct ways-some through mourning and others by unfolding the events of Karbala as symbols of resistance for Muslims today. Meanwhile, a few remain stuck in endless arguments about the tragedy of Karbala. It is disheartening that Muharram passes with debates, and we feel little like resisting or advocating for justice, instead focusing on blaming each other and spreading religious violence. During these days, we often observe that Shia sectarians are very busy mourning and have less focus on the true message of resistance against oppression that Hazrat Imaam Hussain embodied. Many of their activities do not align with the message Hazrat Imaam Hussain conveyed.
Nonetheless, there is no particular time to remember Hazrat Imaam Hussain; every age belongs to him, and the time we live in is no less than that of Yazid. There is no justice, no sympathy, and no unity, while the same oppressors continue to exploit the poor. So who will unite against these oppressors when our scholars are engrossed in arguments instead of conveying a message of solidarity and steadfastness? In our current age, true followers of Hazrat Imaam Hussain are those who live a life of resistance and serve humanity wherever people are under siege. A Muslim who identifies as Hussaini must adopt the principles that Hazrat Imaam Hussain exemplified.
Instead of spreading violence on social media and discussing sectarian beliefs, why do we not abide by the principles and values that Hazrat Imaam Hussain taught? Why do we confine the history of Karbala to mourning and the distribution of food, instead of applying those lessons in our lives that could bring about change? Claiming to be Hussaini is easier said than done. The tragedy of Karbala conveys a lesson of steadfastness for every age when our rights are being violated and justice is denied.
The writer is a freelance columnist.