The Highest Degree of Values: Sacrificing one’s life for principles and beliefs – Imam Hussein (pbuh)
“Hussein is from me, and I am from Hussein. May Allah love those who love Hussein”, stated the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) (Tirmidhi).
The Prophet (pbuh) had a unique love and emotional attachment to his grandson, Hussein (pbuh). Whenever Hussein was present, the Prophet’s face would light up with joy. The Prophet would often embrace, kiss, and play with him. But deep grief and sorrow struck the heart of our beloved Prophet, when the future tragic martyrdom of his grandson was divinely revealed to him.
On this 10th day of Muharram, we remember one of the greatest figures in history who sacrificed his life due to his unwavering and firm faith in Islamic principles and beliefs, which were under threat during the tumultuous time in the Muslim world.
His legacy of unshakeable faith lives forever in our hearts, offering us exceptional jewels of wisdom, and strength of character to stand true to our values and principles – in daily life and in the face of unjust and corrupt governments.
Below is a summary of the extraordinary character of Imam Hussein whose life continues to inspire and guide us:
Imam Hussein’s extraordinary character shines as a beacon of courage, compassion, and unwavering faith. In the face of adversity and injustice, he fearlessly stood up for the principles of Islam, refusing to yield to tyranny. His selflessness and love for humanity touched the hearts of countless people, transcending time and boundaries.
Imam Hussein’s sacrifice in Karbala reflects the epitome of steadfastness, as he chose martyrdom over compromising his values. His devotion to God and dedication to the welfare of the Muslim Ummah serve as a timeless example of leadership and selflessness. We can draw so much inspiration from his teachings of justice, kindness, and empathy, striving to apply them in our daily lives.
The Great Character of Imam Hussein
As we commemorate Imam Hussein’s legacy, a closer look into the virtues he embodied is essential, as he cultivated a true spirit of unity, resilience, and compassion.
The great character of Imam Hussein, as found in many authentic sources, is one of great virtue, piety, and selflessness. He is highly regarded for his uprightness, moral integrity, deep devotion to God, and commitment to justice.
Some key aspects of Imam Hussein’s sublime character are:
Piety and Devotion: Imam Hussein was known for his unwavering piety and devotion to God. He had a profound spiritual connection and spent much of his time in prayer, meditation, and reflection on Islamic teachings.
Humility and Modesty: Despite being from a prominent family, he led a simple and humble life. He was approachable and showed kindness and respect to all, regardless of their social status.
Courage and Fearlessness: Imam Hussein displayed immense courage in standing up against tyranny and oppression. He fearlessly faced the forces of Yazid’s army in Karbala, even though he knew he was vastly outnumbered.
Surrender to Divine Will: Despite the overwhelming odds and the tragic events that unfolded in Karbala, Imam Hussein remained steadfast in his belief in God’s plan and the concept of divine destiny (Qadr). He accepted God’s will and willingly sacrificed his life for the greater good, knowing that his stand would inspire generations to come.
Compassion and Mercy: He cared deeply for the well-being of others and showed kindness and empathy towards those in need.
Wisdom and Knowledge: He was a respected scholar and had a deep understanding of Islamic teachings and jurisprudence.
Self-Sacrifice and Sacrifice for Others: One of the most defining aspects of Imam Hussein’s character was his willingness to sacrifice himself and his family for the greater good. He put the welfare of the Muslim community above his own interests, choosing martyrdom in the pursuit of justice and defending the true teachings of Islam.
Commitment to Social Justice: Imam Hussein’s character was deeply rooted in the principles of social justice and equality. He spoke out against corruption and tyranny, and his actions inspired generations to fight against injustice.
Love for Family: Imam Hussein had a profound love for his family, evident in his willingness to protect and defend them in times of crisis. His relationship with his family members, especially with his sister Zainab, was of immense respect and affection.
Forgiveness: Even in the face of tremendous tragedy and loss, Imam Hussein exemplified forgiveness. He forgave the enemies who sought his forgiveness, highlighting his merciful nature.
He was a powerful symbol of resistance against injustice and oppression, upholding the true spirit of Islam. His legacy continues to serve as an inspiration for people of all backgrounds who strive to follow the path of righteousness and justice.
May his unwavering faith and supreme sacrifice motivate us to stand up for what is right, regardless of the challenges we may face. By following in his noble footsteps, we can make a positive impact on our communities and foster a world grounded in justice, peace, and love insha’Allah.
