An Everlasting Instruction, Imam al-Husayn’s Journey to Makka

An Everlasting Instruction

In coming to Makka for Hajj we should not think that after performing the overt rites of Hajj we are absolved from our duties. Hajj is more than merely an individual worship. It is an act of devotion, whose multidimensional nature increases the responsibilities of the human being.

If Muslims were to realize this and practically respond to the problems that they encounter today, they would surely rule the world and create an environment that would cater for eternal human felicity.

Hajj is beyond doubt an opportunity which can solve so many problems of the contemporary Muslims. To be oblivious of this opportunity would indeed be questionable on the Judgment day.

In the manner that Imam al-Husayn ('a) came to Makka to guide the people of the world, we too have a similar responsibility, even though it may be limited. Muslims of the world need to be awakened from their deep slumber and realize the great danger that they presently confront.

Living in places where there is freedom of worship and safety and being oblivious of what is happening to other Muslim brethren throughout the world, expels one from the Muslim nation. The Holy Prophet (S) is reported to have said:

مَنْ أَصْبَحَ لاَ يَهْتَمُّ بِأُمُورِ الْمُسْلِمِينَ فَلَيْسَ بِمُسْلِمٍ

Whosoever wakes up in the morning and is indifferent of the affairs of Muslims is not a Muslim.[^1]

مَنْ أَصْبَحَ لاَ يَهْتَمُّ بِأُمُورِ الْمُسْلِمِينَ فَلَيْسَ منهم و من سمع رجلا ينادي يا للمسلمين فلم يجبه فليس بمسلم

Whosoever wakes up in the morning and is indifferent of the affairs of Muslims is not among them, and whosoever hears a man call, 'O Muslims [come to my rescue!], but does not respond to him is not a Muslim.'[^2]

As Imam al-Husayn ('a) sought refuge in the Haram, we likewise should do the same. But seeking refuge for us in the beginning would be to cleanse our tarnished soul with the water of repentance and seeking forgiveness from God, and resolve not to engage in any sin, so that we can practically say that we have sought refuge in Allah (swt).

Refuge in our case takes a different form. It depends on our circumstance.

And in the same way that Imam Husayn ('a) never submitted to the forces of kufr, we likewise should inculcate this spirit in ourselves and others, and firmly resolve that till the last moments of our lives we would totally surrender to Almighty Allah.

The emphasis of bara'a (expression of hatred against the polytheists and oppressors) which is so explicit in the Qur'an is very essential today and must never be underestimated. Pathetically, however, it seems that polytheists still dominate the hearts of so-called Muslim leaders.

The entire Masjid al- Haram should be filled with the cries of protest of the lovers of God, and overhaul them to resolve to vanquish the advocates of oppression and falsehood in the manner that Islam dictates. So long as the concept of severing relationships with the oppressors is not practically realized, the chaos in the Muslim world will always increase.

The solution of hampering the forces of kufr from harassing the Muslims directly or indirectly worldwide is to take major steps like depriving the oppressor regimes from black gold which is so vital to keep their technology and perpetual oppression alive. It would literally cripple them, and it should not be a wonder if Israel [which never was] is effaced from the map.

If Hajj does not contain the Husayni spirit, but is limited to its physical and overt acts of devotion, Muslims would never prosper.

The presence of Imam al-Husayn ('a), as has been the case, will always be felt. But so long as we do not make his foundational move, we would never prosper. The Holy Qur'an says:

يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اسْتَجِيبُوا لِلَّهِ وَلِلرَّسُولِ إِذَا دَعَاكمْ لِمَا يُحْيِيكُمْ

O believers, respond to Allah and His Apostle, when He calls you to that which will enliven you. (8:24)

Isn't it time to respond to Allah (swt)'s call?

Peace be upon you- O utterly obedient servant of Allah, O Doyen of Martyrs, O Husayn, and on those who sacrificed their lives for your sake. I humbly pray to Allah to enable us to be with you both in this world and the Hereafter.

May He unite us with your spirit in this world so that we are blessed and honored to continue your mission, and may He resurrect us in the Hereafter in your noble company..

All praises belong to Allah, the Lord of the Universe

[^1]: Thiqatu'l Islam al-Kulayni, Al-Kafi, v.2, p. 163

[^2]: Ibid.,, v.2, p. 164