Commemorating Arbaeen, And The Purpose Of Imam Hussain’s Martyrdom
Commemorating Arbaeen, And The Purpose Of Imam Hussain’s Martyrdom
By Dr Maqsood Jafri
Today, Muslims worldwide are observing Arbaeen (40th day) of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom. This significant event is a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the principles of Islam.
The Main Mission
Imam Hussain’s martyrdom was a deliberate act of defiance against the tyrannical rule of Yazid, who had deviated from the Islamic principles of governance. By standing up against Yazid, Imam Hussain aimed the establishment of an Islamic state.
He sought to reform the Muslim society, which had strayed from the path of righteousness.
His ultimate goal was to establish a just and equitable society based on Islamic principles.
Imam Hussain’s sacrifice conveys a timeless message of liberty, justice and human rights.
His courage in the face of overwhelming odds is an inspiration to people of all faiths.
His unwavering commitment to the principles of Islam serves as a model for those seeking to stand up for justice and equality.
His refusal to compromise on Islamic values, even in the face of death, is a testament to his integrity.
The martyrdom of Imam Hussain has significant implications for contemporary Muslim societies. It highlights the importance of freedom and social justice.
Muslim societies should strive to establish justice and equality, as ordained by Islam.
The Islamic principles of governance, such as consultation (shura) and accountability, should guide Muslim leaders.
Muslims should stand up against oppression and tyranny, just as Imam Hussain did.
Imam Hussain’s martyrdom is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for justice, equality, and the principles of Islam. As Muslims commemorate his sacrifice, they should also strive to establish an Islamic welfare state based on the principles of justice, equality, and compassion. By doing so, they can truly honour his legacy and work towards a more just and equitable society.
The day of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain is twofold. It is the Day of Mourning and the Day of Action. To mourn over this tragedy is quite natural. According to the tradition of the wife of Holy Prophet (PBUH), Hazrat Umme Salma, she saw the Holy Prophet (PBUH) in dream mourning over the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. If the Prophet (PBUH) mourned over this tragedy, why the Muslims should not mourn over it?
The people who want to erase this tragedy from the pages of history are the ones who are the agents of monarchy. Yazid was the First Monarch in Muslim history, hence monarchy is Yazidiyat. Omayyad dynasty, Abbasid dynasty and Ottoman dynasty did their best to suppress the mission of Imam Hussain. Now, the prevalent Arab dynasties suppress the mentioning and mission of Imam Hussain as it goes against their monarchic dictatorship.
The purpose of the Sacrifice of Imam Hussain is to fight aggressors and oppressors. Mourning is not the mission of his sacrifice. Mourning is an expression of our love for him and who does not mourn on this tragedy is opposing the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). In his last sermon at the plain of Karbala Imam Hussain had said:
“If Islam can’t be established without my murder; then let the swords cut my body into pieces.”
He further explained his mission and said that he had stood to save their freedom from a tyrant as the sword of tyranny was hanging over their heads. He reminded them that the public money was being distributed among the cronies and lackeys of Yazid and their loyalties were purchased by bribing them. Once the Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Hussain is from me and I am from Hussain.”
It means that Hussain will save Islam by sacrificing his life. Islam is a religion that challenges dictatorship. Islam rejects fascism, sectarian and racism. Islam ordains to fight aggressors of all times and climes. The Mission of Imam Hussain is eternal and universal. Imam Jafar Sadiq had said:
“Every day is the day of 10th Muharram and every land is the land of Karbala.”
It means that you have to fight against aggressors as Imam Hussain fought against them.
Is the tragedy of Karbala relevant today? Yes, it is. Kashmir and Palestine are the targets of the aggression of India and Israel. The persistent persecution of the defenceless innocent civilians of Gaza and Kashmir invite our immediate and serious attention. Gaza is the Karbala of this era. Are the Muslim rulers united against the unprecedented violence of Israel in Gaza? As mentioned earlier, the 10th Muharram is the “Day of Mourning”, but also the “Day of Action”. And so is 20th Safar, the day of Arbaeen.
Immediate Action is required to stop Israel and India from perpetuating atrocities on Kashmiris and Palestinians. If the Muslims are not doing what is needed, then they are not following into the footsteps of Imam Hussain. Only the commemoration of the tragedy of Karbala does not serve the purpose of the sacrifice of Imam Hussain.
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