Ziyarat of Karbala – Rewards and Merits of Visiting the Grave of Imam Hussain (a.s)

**The Rewards and Merits of Visiting the Grave of Imam Hussain (A.S)** *An in-depth guide to the immense spiritual and religious virtues of performing Ziyarat of Sayyid al-Shuhada, Imam Hussain (A.S), based on authentic Shia sources including Kamil al-Ziyarat.* --- ## Introduction Millions of mourners from around the globe travel to **Karbala** each year to pay tribute to **Imam Hussain ibn Ali (A.S)**, while many others who are unable to attend Arbaeen plan their visit for the following year. Visiting the shrine of the **oppressed Imam** is both a gesture of love and a powerful expression of hostility towards his killers. The merits and status of a visitor (Zāʾir) are far too vast to be fully comprehended. The **11th Imam, Imam Hasan al-Askari (A.S)**, famously said: > “The signs of a true believer are five...” — and among them, he included **attending the Ziyarat of Imam Hussain on Arbaeen**. Numerous traditions from the **Holy Imams (A.S)** make it clear: visiting the grave of **Imam Hussain (A.S)** is not just recommended — it is *obligatory* upon believers. Abandoning this Ziyarat is seen as abandoning the rights of Allah and His Messenger (PBUH). --- ## Key Narrations and Rewards ### 1. **RasoolAllah (PBUH) Will Intercede on Behalf of the Visitors** Imam Ali (A.S) narrates a touching hadith where the Prophet (PBUH) assures Imam Hussain (A.S) that those who visit his grave out of love and loyalty will be held by his hand on the Day of Judgment and saved from hardships. ### 2. **Angelic Companionship** Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (A.S) tells us about **4,000 angels** covered in dust who perpetually weep at Imam Hussain’s grave. These angels accompany visitors, visit them during illness, and intercede for them after death. ### 3. **Ziyarat of Imam Hussain is Wajib (Obligatory)** Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (A.S) commands: > “Instruct our Shia to perform the Ziyarat of Hussain (A.S). It is obligatory upon every Momin who recognises his Imamate.” ### 4. **Immense Forgiveness and Radiant Presence** Imam al-Baqir (A.S) says that performing one prayer near Imam Hussain’s grave while seeking nearness to Allah will make one’s face shine brightly on the Day of Judgment. Their sins will be forgiven, and **Ameerul Momineen (A.S)** will personally greet them at **al-Kawthar**. ### 5. **Do Not Fear – Ziyarat Must Continue** Even in times of danger, Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (A.S) advises believers not to neglect this Ziyarat. Those who skip it without valid excuse will **regret it deeply**. ### 6. **Every Dirham Spent Multiplied** Traditions state that for **every dirham** spent on the journey to Karbala, **one thousand dirhams** of reward will be given in return. ### 7. **Walking to Karbala – Step by Step Forgiveness** Every step taken toward the shrine wipes away **1,000 sins**, adds **1,000 good deeds**, and elevates the visitor by **1,000 degrees**. ### 8. **Syeda Fatima (S.A) Seeks Forgiveness for Visitors** Imam Sadiq (A.S) said: > “Fatima (S.A) visits the Zuwār of her son and **seeks forgiveness** for them.” ### 9. **Time Spent at Ziyarat is Not Counted in Life Span** Days spent visiting Imam Hussain (A.S) are not deducted from one’s life span — they are counted as **blessed moments**. ### 10. **First to Enter Paradise** Imam Sadiq (A.S) states that Zuwār will **enter Jannah 40 years before others** while they are still held in the Desert of Judgment. ### 11. **Marifat of Imam Hussain (A.S)** One who visits the grave with full **recognition of his status and Wilayah** will have all past and future sins forgiven. ### 12. **Ziyarat with Pure Intention Purifies Like Water** Ziyarat done **sincerely**, without riya (showing off), purifies the soul like **water cleanses garments**. ### 13. **Best of All Deeds** When asked, Imam Sadiq (A.S) declared: > “Ziyarat of Imam Hussain (A.S) is **the best of all deeds**.” ### 14. **Equal to Visiting Allah or the Prophet (PBUH)** Imam Ridha (A.S) narrates that performing Ziyarat is like visiting **Allah on His throne**. ### 15. **Increases Rizq and Life Span** Imam al-Baqir (A.S) explains that visiting the grave **increases sustenance**, **extends life**, and **keeps afflictions away**. ### 16. **Equal to Hundreds of Hajj and Umrah** Authentic traditions suggest that **one Ziyarat** of Imam Hussain (A.S) is better than **20 accepted Hajj**, or even **100 Hajj with the Prophet (PBUH)**. ### 17. **Intercession on the Day of Judgment** A caller will ask the visitors of Hussain (A.S) to take **whoever they want into Jannah** with them. ### 18. **Neglect is Dangerous** Neglecting Ziyarat makes one’s **faith incomplete**. Even if admitted into Paradise, the status of such a person will be **lower** than those who visited. ### 19. **Most Beloved Place for Dua** Imam al-Naqi (A.S) ordered Ziyarat on his behalf during illness, showing **Ha’ir (Karbala)** is one of the most beloved places of Allah for worship. ### 20. **How Often to Visit** Imam Sadiq (A.S) instructs: * Those living nearby should visit **once a month**. * Those far should try to go **at least once every three years**. Not visiting without a valid excuse makes one **ungrateful to the Prophet (PBUH)**. --- ## Source and Authenticity These narrations are derived from **Kamil al-Ziyarat** by **Ibn Qulawayh al-Qummi** (d. 368 AH), one of the most authentic and earliest Shia Hadith scholars, and a student of **Shaykh al-Kulayni**. He lived during the **Minor Occultation** and is recognised by luminaries such as **Shaykh al-Tusi**, **Allama Hilli**, and **Shaykh Abbas Qummi**. His work remains a foundational text in the study of Ziyarat and the spiritual rewards linked to it. --- ## Final Thoughts Imam Hussain (A.S) not only sacrificed his life but awakened the moral compass of humanity. His martyrdom is a beacon that continues to illuminate the truth. As poet **Josh Malihabadi** wrote: > “The one whose sajdah calls you to the Masjood; whose being is a sign of the Creator.” May Allah grant us the recognition, means, and opportunity to perform the **Ziyarat of Karbala**, again and again. > **O Allah! Send your blessings on Muhammad (PBUH) and the progeny of Muhammad (A.S).** --- **SEO Title:** Rewards and Merits of Visiting the Grave of Imam Hussain (A.S) – Ziyarat of Karbala **Meta Description:** Discover the immense spiritual rewards and narrated hadiths about visiting the grave of Imam Hussain (A.S). Learn how Ziyarat in Karbala is linked to faith, Jannah, and love of Ahlul Bayt. **SEO Keywords:** Ziyarat of Imam Hussain, Karbala pilgrimage, Rewards of Ziyarat, Imam Hussain grave, Arbaeen Ziyarat benefits, visiting Karbala, Ziyarat hadiths, Imam Hussain love, Shia Islam pilgrimage, virtues of visiting Karbala, merits of Ziyarat al-Hussain, Kamil al-Ziyarat, Imam Hussain shrine

The Rewards and Merits of Visiting the Grave of Imam Hussain (A.S) An in-depth guide to the immense spiritual and religious virtues of performing Ziyarat of Sayyid al-Shuhada, Imam Hussain (A.S), based on authentic Shia sources including Kamil al-Ziyarat. Introduction Millions of mourners from around the globe travel to Karbala each year to pay tribute […]

Majlis 12: Shaam al-Gharibaan – The Night of the Oppressed

Read Majlis 12 on Shaam al-Gharibaan, the heart-breaking night after Ashura. Discover the tragedy of the Ahlul Bayt, the burning tents, the orphaned children, and the resilience of Bibi Zainab (S.A) in Karbala.

The heartbreaking aftermath of Ashura – the night of loss, fear, and resilience for the Ahlul Bayt (A.S) in Karbala. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir RaheemInna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaih Raja’oon! Shaam al-Gharibaan: The Darkest Night in Karbala After the sun of Ashura set, a new darkness enveloped Karbala. The battlefield, once filled with the cries of […]

Majlis 11: The Martyrdom of Imam Husayn (A.S) on the Day of Ashura

he Martyrdom of Imam Husayn (A.S) on Ashura – Majlis 11 Karbala Tragedy

The heart-wrenching sacrifice of Imam Husayn (A.S), the 10th of Muharram – a day of mourning, legacy, and truth. Read Ziarat e AshuraRead Amaal e Ashura Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Today is the 10th of Muharram, the Day of Ashura – the most tragic and significant day in Islamic history, particularly for Shia Muslims. It […]

Majlis 10: Hazrat Ali Asghar (A.S) – The Youngest Martyr of Karbala

A heart-breaking majlis on the eve of ‘Ashura, honouring the ultimate sacrifice of the youngest martyr of Karbala, Hazrat ‘Ali Asghar ibn Husayn (A.S), the six-month-old infant whose life was taken by Yazid’s army. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Tonight is the 10th night of Muharram — the eve of ‘Ashura, a night of unbearable sorrow, pain, and remembrance. It is the last night for the 72 martyrs of Karbala. The last night for fathers with their children. The last night for little Bibi Sakina to sleep near her beloved uncle Hazrat Abbas (A.S) and dearest father Imam Husayn (A.S). Mothers of Karbala: Preparing for the Ultimate Sacrifice The mothers of Karbala’—Umm Laila, Umm Farwah, and Bibi Zainab—sat with their sons: Ali Akbar, Qasim, Aun–Muhammad. They were not comforting them for sleep. They were preparing them for Jihad, for martyrdom, for the preservation of Islam. We salute the courage of these righteous mothers, whose faith stood strong in the darkest night of history. Imam Husayn's Last Address to His Companions Imam Husayn (A.S) gathered his loyal followers in his tent: “Tonight is our last night. Tomorrow is ‘Ashura. You are free to leave. I will forgive you. Escape in the night. Save your lives.” He blew out the candles. Total darkness. When the lights were lit again, not one companion had left. Not even one. They had seen the truth. They stood by Husayn, because Husayn stood by Islam. The Night of Ali Asghar (A.S) – The Youngest Martyr One by one, Husayn’s companions were martyred on the day of ‘Ashura: Aun–Muhammad Hazrat Qasim Hazrat Abbas Ali Akbar By Asr, only Husayn remained. He mounted Zuljana, his horse, and called out: “Is there anyone to help me?” A cry echoed from the tent. Little Ali Asghar (A.S) had fallen from his cradle. He had heard the call. He was answering his father’s cry. Imam Husayn Takes Ali Asghar to the Battlefield Husayn whispered to his infant son. Ali Asghar stopped crying. He smiled. He was ready. Covered in Husayn’s abaa, shielded from the scorching sun, Ali Asghar was taken to the enemy lines. “O soldiers of Yazid! He is only six months old. His mother’s milk has dried. He hasn’t had a drop of water in three days. Give him some water!” There was no answer. No mercy. “Put him on the ground,” Husayn said. “Bring water yourselves.” Still, no one moved. The Jihad of the Infant – A Soldier Without a Sword Husayn said: “My son, you are too small to fight with a sword. Fight with your tongue.” Ali Asghar (A.S) ran his dry tongue over his parched lips. His gaze pierced the hearts of Yazid’s soldiers. Many wept. Umar ibn Sa’ad feared his soldiers would rebel. He ordered Hurmullah: “Shoot! Silence the child!” Hurmullah released a three-pronged arrow — the arrow flew through the air… It struck Husayn’s arm and pierced Ali Asghar’s tiny neck. The Martyrdom of Ali Asghar (A.S) The infant died instantly. Husayn pulled out the arrow. “O Earth, do not absorb his blood or no crops will grow.” “O Sky, do not take his blood or no rain will fall.” So, Husayn wiped the blood of Ali Asghar on his face. Burial of a Baby by His Parents He approached the tents. Seven times, he went forward and turned back. How could he face Umm Rubab? He finally whispered: “Rubab, come and take your little soldier. Ali Asghar has died for the sake of Allah.” Together, they dug a tiny grave behind the tents. Ali Asghar’s grave was watered with Husayn’s tears. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaih Raja’oon!We are from Allah and to Him we will return! Matam al-Husayn!

A heart-breaking majlis on the eve of ‘Ashura, honouring the ultimate sacrifice of the youngest martyr of Karbala, Hazrat ‘Ali Asghar ibn Husayn (A.S), the six-month-old infant whose life was taken by Yazid’s army. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Tonight is the 10th night of Muharram — the eve of ‘Ashura, a night of unbearable sorrow, […]

Majlis 9: Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S) – The Ultimate Sacrifice of a Son in Karbala

Majlis 9 Hazrat Ali Akbar, Karbala tragedy, Hazrat Ali Akbar martyrdom, Ali Akbar Ashura, 9th Muharram majlis, sacrifice of Imam Hussain’s son, Ali Akbar Karbala speech, Shia majlis Ali Akbar, emotional majlis Hazrat Ali Akbar, who was Ali Akbar a.s, Islamic history Karbala, story of Ali Akbar, Ali Akbar Imam Husayn son

A heart-wrenching Majlis remembering the courage, beauty, and tragic martyrdom of Hazrat ‘Ali Akbar ibn Husayn (A.S), the teenage son of Imam Husayn and the image of the Holy Prophet. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Tonight is the 9th night of Muharram, the second night without water in Karbala. The heat is unbearable. The children are […]

Majlis 8 – Hazrat Abbas (A.S) | The Alamdar of Karbala

Majlis 8 – Hazrat Abbas (A.S) | The Alamdar of Karbala

A deeply moving Majlis dedicated to the courage, sacrifice, and loyalty of Hazrat ‘Abbas ibn Ali (A.S), the standard-bearer of Karbala and loyal brother of Imam Husayn. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Tonight is the 8th night of Muharram.We will shed more tears. We will do more matam. Tonight is the night of Hazrat ‘Abbas (A.S) […]

Majlis 7 – Hazrat Qasim (A.S) | Bravery and Martyrdom on the 10th of Muharram

Hazrat Qasim

A powerful and emotional Majlis for the 7th night of Muharram, commemorating the bravery and martyrdom of Hazrat Qasim ibn Hasan (A.S), the young son of Imam Hasan. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Tonight is the 7th night of Muharram.Our Muharram majaalis continue. We shall shed more tears for Karbala. We will continue our matam, donate […]

Majlis 6: Sacrifice of ‘Aun and Muhammad – Sons of Zainab in Karbala

A deeply emotional Majlis dedicated to the bravery and sacrifice of Bibi Zainab's sons, ‘Aun and Muhammad, on the 6th night of Muharram. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Today is the 6th night of Muharram.Our majaalis continue. Insha’Allah, our eyes will shed more tears for the martyrs of Karbala. We will do more Matam al-Husayn. "Husayn! Karbala! Matam! Majaalis!" When these words echo in our mosque, a lady in black hijab joins us. She is Bibi Fatimah. She watches, cries, and collects our tears. Our tears for Husayn will become our shield in the grave and on the Day of Judgement. Imam Husayn is in Karbala. He has only 72 men, some of whom are children. Among them are ‘Aun and Muhammad, the young sons of Bibi Zainab. ‘Aun is 13 years old, Muhammad is 11. Honouring the Mothers of Karbala Tonight is the night to honour the mothers of Karbala, especially Bibi Zainab, the mother of ‘Aun and Muhammad. These mothers sacrificed their children for Islam. Mothers of Karbala: Bibi Zainab, mother of ‘Aun & Muhammad Umm Farwah, mother of Qasim Umm Laila, mother of ‘Ali Akbar Umm Rubab, mother of ‘Ali Asghar These mothers loved their children deeply, yet sacrificed them because they knew Husayn was on the Right Path, and that their sacrifices would save Islam. Matam al-Karbala will never die.Allah has promised to keep the name of Husayn alive till the Day of Judgement. Preparation on the Night of ‘Ashura The night of 9th Muharram - the last night for the martyrs.No one slept. Men prayed, mothers prepared their children to sacrifice. What did the Mothers say? Umm Laila to ‘Ali Akbar: "Your life is not more important than your father's. Give your life to protect him." Umm Rubab to baby Asghar: "If only you were grown up, I would send you too." Umm Farwah to Qasim: "Don't shame me before your father. Sacrifice your life for your uncle." Umm Kulthoom to Abbas: "I have no sons to sacrifice." Abbas replied: "Then I will sacrifice myself on your behalf." Bibi Zainab to ‘Aun & Muhammad: "If anything happens to your uncle while you live, I will be ashamed. Don't let me down." Martyrdom of ‘Aun and Muhammad On ‘Ashura, ‘Ali Akbar gave the Adhan. Imam Husayn led the Fajr prayers. The battle began. One by one, companions were martyred. Bibi Zainab watched. She called her sons: "Why are you still here?" They replied: "Uncle Husayn refuses to let us go. Help us, mother." Zainab went to her brother: "Brother, I beg you. Let my sons go. I don’t want to be ashamed before our mother Fatimah." Imam Husayn was moved. He kissed the boys, mounted them on their horses: "Go, show them you carry the blood of Ja’far and ‘Ali." ‘Aun and Muhammad fought bravely. Umar Saad, alarmed, ordered his army to separate them and attack from all sides. The boys were overpowered. As they fell, they called: "Uncle! Help us!" Imam Husayn and Abbas rushed. The boys were severely wounded. Their last words: "Uncle, give our salaam to mother. Tell her we didn’t go to the river." They were carried back to the tent. ‘Ali Akbar cried: "My brothers have been martyred!" Bibi Zainab heard. She laid her musallah, performed sajdah: "Ya Allah, thank You for accepting my sacrifice. I am proud of my sons." Women gathered around the bodies and cried: "Ya ‘Aunna, ya Muhammada! Ya ‘Aunna, ya Muhammada!" Zainab did not cry. She did not do matam.She had already sacrificed her sons for Islam. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaih Raja’oon!We are from Allah and to Him we return! Matam al-Husayn!

A deeply emotional Majlis dedicated to the bravery and sacrifice of Bibi Zainab’s sons, ‘Aun and Muhammad, on the 6th night of Muharram. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Today is the 6th night of Muharram.Our majaalis continue. Insha’Allah, our eyes will shed more tears for the martyrs of Karbala. We will do more Matam al-Husayn. “Husayn! […]

Dua Nudba

Dua Nudba

﷽ الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَالَمِينَalhamdu lillahi rabbi al`alaminaAll praise be to Allah the Lord of the worlds.   وَصَلَّىٰ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ سَيِّدِنَا مُحَمَّدٍ نَبِيِّهِwa salla allahu `ala sayyidina muhammadin nabiyyihiMay Allah send blessings upon our master Muhammad His Prophet   وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ تَسْلِيماًwa alihi wa sallama taslimanand upon his Household and may He salute them with thorough salutation. […]

Majlis 5: The Story of Habib Ibn Mazaahir – Martyrdom & Loyalty in Karbala

Surah al-Fatiha Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Today is the 5th night of Muharram. Our majaalis continue. We will recite more nawhas to mourn the great loss in Karbala. Our eyes will shed more tears and our matam will increase. Day-by-day, the scene in Karbala is changing. More and more soldiers join the enemy's camp. Thousands have gathered to kill Husayn, the grandson of the Holy Prophet. Bibi Zainab said to her brother: “Brother Husayn! Thousands of soldiers are gathering to fight you. We have hardly 72 men with us. Do you not have anyone to come to your help?” Imam Husayn replied: “My sister Zainab, many wanted to join me during the journey from Medina to Karbala. I politely discouraged them because their intention was not truthful. Many joined and have run away during the journey because they were scared of dying. Zainab! My sister! Falsehood can buy many supporters, but truth has only a few friends. The soldiers on the other side have been bought. They prefer happiness in this world than in the world hereafter. My 72 truthful men prefer happiness in the world hereafter and that is why they are with me.” That night, Imam Husayn wrote a letter to his childhood friend, Habib Ibn Mazaahir, who was in Kufa. Kufa was blocked off and nobody was allowed to leave. Habib Ibn Mazaahir did not know the whereabouts of Imam Husayn until the letter arrived at his house. At the time he was having breakfast with his wife and a young son. Habib read the letter from Husayn. He kissed it, and tears began to flow from his eyes. His wife asked him what was wrong. Habib said: “I have received a letter from my master, Husayn. He has asked me to join him in Karbala. Yazid's soldiers have surrounded him and are after his life.” Habib's wife replied: “Habib! Your childhood friend has called you. Your master needs your help. What are you waiting for? Go Habib, before it is too late!” Habib's worry was how to escape from Kufa without being seen. He instructed his slave to take his horse to a farm outside the city and to wait for him there. The slave obeyed. The slave took Habib's horse to a farm outside the city and waited for his master. As Habib was delayed, the slave began talking to the horse: “O horse! Master Husayn is in trouble. He needs help. He has asked my master Habib to join him. Master Habib is late. Horse, if he does not manage to escape from Kufa, I will ride on you and go to Husayn's help.” At Asr time, when most men were at the mosque, Habib escaped to the farm. He quickly mounted his horse and said to his slave: “Go, my friend, Go! I am freeing you from my services.” But the slave pleaded: “Master! You are not being fair. I have served you faithfully for years. Now, I have a chance to serve the son of Bibi Fatimah, and you are asking me to go. Why are you denying me a place in Heaven?” Habib was moved by the words of his slave. Pleased to hear his loyalty and understanding of truth versus falsehood, Habib allowed him to come along. Together they galloped towards Karbala. Habib reached Karbala late in the evening. Imam Husayn greeted him with great affection. Bibi Zainab heard that Habib had arrived. She asked her maid Fizza to convey her greetings to Habib. When Habib heard this, he screamed out in grief and anger. He threw his turban to the ground, slapped his face, and cried: “What a sad day! What has happened to the household of Bibi Fatimah? The princess! Granddaughter of the Holy Prophet, the daughter of ‘Ali and Fatimah is sending her greetings to an ordinary person like me! Yazid! You beast, you tyrant! What have you done to the household of Bibi Fatimah?” Days and nights of Muharram passed, and ‘Ashura came. At dawn, ‘Ali Akbar gave Adhan for the last time. Yazid's soldiers blew the trumpets of war. One by one, Husayn's companions entered the battlefield and sacrificed their lives for Islam. Husayn, ‘Abbas, and ‘Ali Akbar were busy collecting the bodies of the martyrs. Between Dhuhr and Asr, Habib Ibn Mazaahir came to Imam Husayn and said: “My Master, Husayn, allow me to go to the battlefield. Let me sacrifice my life for Islam.” Imam Husayn said: “Habib, my childhood friend. Stay with me. You give comfort to me, my friend.” Habib insisted. Eventually, Imam Husayn granted him permission. He mounted Habib on a horse and sent him to the battlefield. Habib fought bravely, but he was finally overpowered. He fell to the ground. An enemy soldier approached and cut off his head. All the martyrs of Karbala had their heads severed, but Habib's was the first. Unlike others, Habib's head was not placed on a spearhead. Instead, it was tied to a horse and dragged across Karbala. Later in Shaam, Habib's head was still tied to the horse's neck. A young boy named Qasim followed the horse wherever it went. One day, the man riding the horse asked: “Why are you following me around? What do you want?” Qasim simply stared at the head. The man asked again: “Why are you staring at the head?” Qasim replied: “This head is the head of my father, Habib Ibn Mazaahir. Please give it to me so that I can bury my father's head.” Habib's head seemed to speak to his son: “My son Qasim, you are thinking of burying my head. What about the head of Husayn on that spearhead?” Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaih Raja’oon! We are from Allah and to Him we will return! Matam al-Husayn!

A heart-touching Majlis on the 5th night of Muharram remembering the loyalty and martyrdom of Habib Ibn Mazaahir, the faithful companion of Imam Husayn in Karbala. Surah al-FatihaBismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Today is the 5th night of Muharram. Our majaalis continue. We will recite more nawhas to mourn the great loss in Karbala. Our eyes will […]