Introduction: What Is the Day of Ashura?
The Day of Ashura is one of the most significant and solemn days in the Islamic calendar. Falling on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, this day marks the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (a.s.), the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). On this day, in the desert land of Karbala (modern-day Iraq) in the year 680 CE, Imam Hussain (a.s.) and 72 of his companions were brutally killed by the forces of the tyrannical ruler Yazid ibn Muawiyah, after being denied food and water for three consecutive days.
Ashura is not just a historical event; it is a living symbol of resistance against oppression, injustice, and tyranny. It is remembered and mourned by millions of Muslims worldwide, particularly by Shia Muslims, through mourning processions, Majalis (gatherings), recitation of Marsiyas (elegies), and acts of charity. The legacy of Imam Hussain (a.s.) has become a timeless example of standing for truth, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The Historical Context of Ashura: Who Was Imam Hussain (a.s.)?
The Lineage of Light
Imam Hussain ibn Ali (a.s.) was the second son of Imam Ali (a.s.) and Fatimah al-Zahra (s.a.), the daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As the grandson of the Prophet, Imam Hussain (a.s.) grew up in a household revered for its piety, wisdom, and commitment to justice. He was one of the “Sayyid al-Shabab Ahl al-Jannah” (Leaders of the Youths of Paradise), as described by the Prophet himself.
After the assassination of his father, Imam Ali (a.s.), and the poisoning of his brother, Imam Hasan (a.s.), Imam Hussain (a.s.) became the rightful leader of the Muslim Ummah. However, the rise of the Umayyad dynasty under Yazid threatened the spiritual and moral essence of Islam.
Why Imam Hussain Refused Allegiance to Yazid
Upon Yazid’s succession to power in 680 CE, he demanded that Imam Hussain (a.s.) pledge allegiance to him. Yazid’s rule was marked by corruption, moral degradation, and the distortion of Islamic values. Imam Hussain (a.s.), out of loyalty to the principles of Islam and his duty to the Muslim community, refused to endorse a leader who embodied everything Islam stood against.
His refusal was not a political move—it was a moral stand against tyranny. He knew that by rejecting Yazid, he risked his life and the lives of his family. But for Imam Hussain (a.s.), honour, dignity, and justice were more valuable than worldly gain.
The Journey to Karbala
Imam Hussain (a.s.) departed from his home in Medina and headed toward Kufa, Iraq, after receiving thousands of letters from the people of Kufa pledging their support. Accompanied by his family members, including women and children, and a small group of loyal followers, he travelled to what would become the site of one of the most heart-wrenching events in Islamic history.
Upon reaching the barren desert plains of Karbala, Yazid’s army of over 30,000 soldiers surrounded Imam Hussain (a.s.) and his 72 companions, blocking their access to the Euphrates River, their only water source. For three days, they endured unbearable thirst, especially the children and the ailing.
The Battle of Karbala: The Day of Ashura Unfolds
Dawn of Sacrifice
On the morning of 10th Muharram, Imam Hussain (a.s.) addressed Yazid’s army and tried to awaken their conscience. Despite his passionate pleas, the enemy remained resolute. As the sun rose, one by one, Imam Hussain’s companions went into battle. Each fought bravely and embraced martyrdom with pride. His family members, including Ali Akbar (a.s.), Qasim (a.s.), Abbas (a.s.), and even his six-month-old infant Ali Asghar (a.s.), were also mercilessly slain.
The battlefield turned red with the blood of the righteous. Imam Hussain (a.s.), left alone, fought valiantly but was eventually fatigued, wounded, and struck down. His head was severed by Shimr ibn Dhil-Jawshan, and his body was trampled under the horses of Yazid’s army.
The Aftermath of Karbala: Women and Children in Captivity
After the massacre, the camp of Imam Hussain (a.s.) was looted and burned. The women, including Sayyida Zainab (s.a.), and children were taken as prisoners and paraded from Karbala to Kufa and then Damascus.
Despite immense grief, Sayyida Zainab (s.a.) delivered a defiant sermon in the court of Yazid, condemning his tyranny and exposing the truth of Karbala. Her eloquence and bravery turned the tide of public opinion and laid the foundation for future revolts against the Umayyad regime.
The Legacy of Ashura: Lessons for Humanity
A Timeless Message
Imam Hussain’s sacrifice is a universal message of freedom, resistance, and the preservation of human dignity. He did not fight for power or revenge. He fought for truth, justice, and the essence of Islam. His martyrdom transcends sectarian boundaries, influencing Muslims and non-Muslims alike throughout history.
Inspiring Global Movements
From Mahatma Gandhi to Nelson Mandela, many great leaders have cited Imam Hussain’s stand at Karbala as an inspiration for their own struggles against oppression. Gandhi famously said:
“I learned from Hussain how to achieve victory while being oppressed.”
Mourning the Day of Ashura: Rituals and Commemorations
Majalis and Processions
Across the globe, particularly in Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, and Bahrain, millions gather in Majalis to recount the events of Karbala. Eulogies, lamentations, and Ziyarat Ashura are recited with deep sorrow and devotion.
Matam and Chest Beating
In various cultures, especially within the Shia community, chest beating or Matam is performed as a symbolic expression of grief and solidarity with Imam Hussain’s suffering.
Acts of Charity and Kindness
Many use this sacred day to donate to the poor, distribute food (Nazr), and support the oppressed, keeping alive the values that Imam Hussain (a.s.) stood for.
Karbala Today: A Centre of Pilgrimage
The shrine of Imam Hussain (a.s.) in Karbala is among the most visited holy sites in the world. During Arbaeen, the 40th day after Ashura, over 20 million pilgrims walk to Karbala, making it the largest annual peaceful gathering on Earth.
This pilgrimage is a powerful reminder that Imam Hussain’s message is still alive, etched in the hearts of believers.
Modern Relevance: Why Ashura Still Matters Today
In a world increasingly torn by injustice, inequality, and authoritarianism, Imam Hussain’s resistance offers a blueprint for ethical leadership, civil disobedience, and spiritual courage. He teaches that silence in the face of injustice is complicity, and that standing up—even if alone—matters more than the results.
Ashura is a call to action: to speak the truth, serve the oppressed, and live a life of purpose and integrity.
Hussain Lives On
The Day of Ashura is not just a remembrance—it is a movement, a spirit, a revolution. Imam Hussain (a.s.) was killed, but his mission lives on in every act of resistance against tyranny, in every voice that defends the voiceless, and in every heart that refuses to bow to falsehood.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his legacy. For as long as there are people who cry for Hussain (a.s.), Karbala will never be forgotten. His sacrifice remains a guiding light for all who seek justice, truth, and eternal dignity.
