The story of Muslim ibn Aqeel (a.s.), the cousin of Imam Hussain (a.s.), is a chapter written in blood and loyalty in the pages of Islamic history. His martyrdom in the streets of Kufa is not only a personal tragedy but a pivotal moment that unveiled the treachery and betrayal that paved the way for the ultimate sacrifice at Karbala.
Read: Ziarat Hazrat Muslim ibn Aqeel a.s
Who Was Muslim ibn Aqeel (a.s.)?
Muslim ibn Aqeel was the son of Aqeel ibn Abi Talib, making him a cousin of both Imam Ali (a.s.) and Imam Hussain (a.s.). Raised in the house of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), Muslim was a man of impeccable faith, character, and courage. His unwavering loyalty to truth and justice was evident from his early years.
When Imam Hussain (a.s.) began receiving letters from the people of Kufa, pledging allegiance and inviting him to lead them against the tyrant Yazid ibn Muawiyah, he sent Muslim ibn Aqeel as his envoy to assess the situation.
Mission to Kufa: A Wave of Hope
Muslim ibn Aqeel arrived in Kufa amidst a wave of public enthusiasm. Thousands pledged allegiance to Imam Hussain (a.s.) through him, raising hopes for a potential uprising against Yazid’s rule. For a time, it seemed Kufa would become the centre of revolution and justice.
However, Yazid quickly responded by sending Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad, a brutal and cunning governor, to take control of Kufa and crush any opposition.
Betrayal and Isolation
Through intimidation, bribery, and brutal tactics, Ibn Ziyad instilled fear in the hearts of Kufans. The once-loyal supporters began to abandon Muslim one by one. Within days, the city that had once pledged allegiance stood silent and hostile.
Muslim ibn Aqeel was forced into hiding, ultimately captured after being betrayed. He was taken to the governor’s palace, where he was denied water, beaten, and condemned to death.
The Martyrdom
On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, 60 AH (approximately 680 CE), Muslim ibn Aqeel was executed mercilessly. His body was thrown from the palace walls, and his head was sent to Yazid in Damascus.
He died alone, thirsty, and heartbroken — not for himself, but because he could not warn Imam Hussain (a.s.) of the dangerous turn of events in Kufa.
Legacy and Lessons
The martyrdom of Muslim ibn Aqeel (a.s.) is a symbol of loyalty in the face of betrayal. Despite being abandoned by thousands, he never wavered in his mission. His martyrdom was a grim foreshadowing of what awaited Imam Hussain (a.s.) and his loyal companions in Karbala just weeks later.
Muslim’s final message to Imam Hussain (a.s.) — delivered with the last of his strength — was one of caution and concern. It is said he urged the Imam not to proceed to Kufa, knowing the betrayal he himself had suffered.
Spiritual Reflections
For Shia Muslims and lovers of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), the martyrdom of Muslim ibn Aqeel is not merely a historical event — it is a source of inspiration, a moment to renew allegiance, and a call to stand for truth, even when the world turns away.
His loyalty, courage, and steadfastness remind us that supporting truth requires sacrifice, and that the path of the righteous is often lonely.
Commemoration
Every year, millions remember and mourn the sacrifice of Muslim ibn Aqeel during the first ten days of Muharram. Majalis are held across the world, narrating his trials and honouring his unwavering faith.
In Kufa, a majestic shrine stands over his grave — a silent witness to one of the most heartbreaking moments in Islamic history.
“Peace be upon Muslim ibn Aqeel, the loyal ambassador of Hussain (a.s.) and the first martyr in the mission of Karbala.”
