Biography of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (as)

Birth and Significance

Imam Hussain (as) was born on the 3rd of Shaban, 4 AH/626 CE, in Madinah, as the second son of Imam Ali (as) and Lady Fatimah (sa). As the younger brother of Imam Hassan (as) and the second grandchild of Prophet Muhammad (sawa), his birth was imbued with spiritual significance. 

The Prophet Muhammad (sawa) received a divine message through Angel Gabriel to name the child Hussain, drawing from the name of Haroon’s (as) younger son. The Prophet (sawa) foretold everyone about the trials Hussain (as) would face, including his martyrdom and declared him and his brother Hassan as the leaders of the youth of Paradise, emphasizing Hussain’s (as) profound role in Islam.

Imam Hussain (as) had many titles, but his most famous titles were al-Shaheed, Sayyid al-Shuhada, Saar Allah, Qateel al-'Abarat and as-Sibt. His kunya was Abu Abdullah/Aba Abdillah.

Exemplary Morals

Imam Hussain (as) was passing by when a group of people with leprosy invited him to sit and eat with them. Imam (as) politely declined their invitation because he was fasting that day. 

The following day, Imam Hussain (as) sent his servant to invite this group of people with leprosy. He instructed his wife to prepare the best food, as he had invited some respected guests. When the food was served, the poor people with leprosy felt shy and could not eat. In response, Imam Hussain (as) personally took a bite of the food and placed it in each person's mouth.

Martyrdom and Legacy

Imam Hussain (as) was martyred on the 10th of Muharram, 61 AH/680 CE, in the Battle of Karbala. His sacrifice is a profound symbol of resistance against tyranny and injustice. The events of Karbala are commemorated annually, underscoring his enduring legacy as a beacon of truth and righteousness. Imam Hussain’s (as) stand continues to inspire Muslims to uphold justice and moral integrity.