Biography of Imam Zain ul Abidin (as)

Birth and Lineage

Imam Ali ibn Hussein (as), also known as Imam Zain al-Abidin (as), was born on the 15th of Jumada al-Awwal, 38 AH/658 CE, in Medina. He was the son of Imam Hussain (as) and Lady Shahr-Banu (sa), the daughter of Yazdegerd III, the last Persian king of the Sasanian Empire. After being captured and brought to Medina, Lady Shahr-Banu married Imam Hussain (as). Tragically, she passed away shortly after giving birth to Imam Zain al-Abidin (as). As the fourth Imam in the line of Ahlulbayt (as), he inherited a legacy of profound piety and leadership.

Spiritual Legacy

Imam Zain al-Abidin (as) is renowned for his deep spirituality and profound supplications. One of his most notable prayers is Dua Abu Hamza al-Thumali, in which he reflects on the tension between his sins and Allah’s mercy: 

“Whenever I think of my sins, O my Master, I panic, but when I think of Your generosity, I feel desirous (for Your pardon). Therefore, if You forgive me, You are already the best of those who show mercy, and If You punish me, You are then not wronging me.” This dua highlights his profound humility and reliance on Allah’s infinite mercy.

Martyrdom and Legacy

Imam Zain al-Abidin (as) passed away on the 25th of Muharram, 95 AH/713 CE, in Jannat al-Baqi’ in Medina. He was poisoned by the Umayyad caliph Walid I. His martyrdom was a consequence of the relentless persecution faced by the family of the Prophet (sawa) under the Umayyad regime. Despite his trials, Imam Zain al-Abidin (as) left a lasting impact through his spiritual teachings and unwavering faith, continuing to inspire generations of Muslims.