The Life of Imam Husain ('a)

Martyrdom of the Companions

Mercenaries of falsehood and misguidance, armed to the teeth with rows like a flood fell upon those chosen noble men who had dedicated their lives to Allah and nothing could make them unmindful of supporting the truth and destroying falsehood while those great personalities assumed patience and sincerity and remained steadfast before those wild beasts. And they were not cowed down by their huge numbers, their weapons and their capabilities. They displayed admirable valor and manliness…

We shall discuss about the events of the battle and incidents related to the martyrdom of those righteous souls.

General Attack

Forces of Ibn Saad launched a mammoth attack on the companions of the Holy Imam and a furious battle erupted between the two parties. This was the first attack in which the Imam’s men participated. It was an attack in which all the divisions of the army of Kufa took part and the companions derived strength from their faith in the correctness of their belief in the defense of Islam and sacrifice with all sincerity. And their martial spirit was awakened to such an extent that they continued to repulse the huge army and rent asunder their ranks and dispersed the rows of soldiers who had been tough as a stone. As a result of which the small band of Holy warriors was able to put to flight the army of Saad.[1] But in this course half of them were martyred.[2]

Number of Imam’s Men who were martyred

The number of martyrs from the Imam’s companions in the first attack, on the basis of what Ibn Shahr Aashob has mentioned were as follows: Naeem bin Ajlaan, Imran bin Kaab bin Harith Ashjai, Hanzalah bin Amr Shaibani, Qasit bin Zuhair, Kanana bin Atiq, Amr bin Mashiya, Zarghama bin Malik, Aamir bin Muslim, Saif bin Malik Numairi, Abdur Rahman Darji, Majma Aaezi, Habbab bin Harith, Amr Jundai, Halaas bin Amr Rasibi, Sawaar bin Abi Umair Fahmi, Ammar bin Abi Salamah Daalaani, Noman bin Amr Raasibi, Zahir bin Amr, slave of Ibn Hamaq, Jabla bin Ali, Masud bin Hajjaj, Abdullah bin Urwah Ghiffari, Zuhair bin Salim, Abdullah and Ubaidullah, two sons of Zaid Basri and ten persons from the slaves of His Eminence, Husain and slaves of His Eminence, Imam Ali (‘a).[3]

Single Combat

After the first attack, single combats started between the two armies, because Yasar, the slave of Ziyad and Saalim, the slave of Ubaidullah bin Ziyad came to the battlefield and challenged the Imam’s companions for duels with them. So  


[1] Ma’-al Husain Fee Nahzatih, Pg. 220
[2] It is mentioned in Biharul Anwar that the number of Imam’s companions martyred in the first attack was fifty.
[3] Ibne Shahr Aashob, Manaqib 4/113

Habib bin Mazahir and Burair stood up to move towards them, but the Imam did not allow them to proceed. Thus, the great warrior, Abdullah bin Umair Kalbi went towards them.[1] He was a daring and courageous man. Imam Husain (‘a) said, “I consider him a fighter against outstanding warriors.”

When he arrived and faced the two challengers they asked about his name and lineage. He told them about it but they considered it of not much importance and said, “We don’t know who you are. Let Zuhair bin Qain or Habib bin Mazahir or Burair come out against us.” The brave warrior hastened to the two men and screamed at Yasar, “Son of a prostitute, you wanted to do single combat with one of the people. None shall come against you but that he is better than you…”

How meaningful was his statement that: “None shall come but that he shall be better than you.” Each one of the companions of the Imam was better than him and the soldiers of that army because they were fighting with conviction and faith that they were confronting with certainty people of misguidance and deviation in the path of religion.

Kalbi attacked Yasar and felled him to the ground smeared in his own blood. At that moment Saalim attacked him while he was not attentive to him. With his left arm he warded off Saalim’s blow but the fingers of his hand were cut off. Then he turned on Saalim and struck him with the other hand killing him.

The mercenaries of Ibn Saad were terrified of this incomparable warrior. While he was fighting, his respected wife, Umme Wahab**[2]** took up a tent pole and hastened to him and cheered him to fight on, “May my parents be sacrificed on you, fight for the defense of the Purified Progeny of Muhammad (s).”

Companions of His Eminence, Husain (‘a) were concentrating all their efforts in defense of the Holy Imam and in this matter there was no difference between men or women and young or old.

They displayed daring in battle with fiery emotions and they had become impassioned in their love and devotion to the Holy Imam.

When Kalbi saw his wife behind him he ordered her to go back to the ladies’ tents, but she did not agree. The Imam noticed this and he hastened to her and said, “The Almighty Allah shall bestow a good reward to your family. Go back! May Allah have mercy on you as ladies are not obliged to fight in Jihad…”

Umme Wahab returned to ladies’ tent and Kalbi began to recite the following poem of war:

“If you do not know me, I am Ibn al-Kalbi: I am a man of bitterness and anger, I am not a weakling in the face of disaster.”


[1] It is said that Abdullah bin Umair was martyred in the first attack.
[2] The lady Umme Wahab was the daughter of Abdullah from Namr bin Qasit and she was killed after the martyrdom of her husband.

By this poem he introduced himself that he was from Bani Kalb, a tribe of Qaza-a.[1] In the same way he spoke about his daring, superiority, outstanding valor, intelligence and eloquence and reiterated that he shall not be found wanting in conditions of hardships. Rather in such circumstances he shall be one with foresight and perception. And in this way he described his noble personality which was a lofty quality of the noble souls.

Inconclusive Attack

Ibn Saad’s forces had surrounded the Imam’s camp from all the sides, but inspite of their few numbers the Imam’s companions had stood up to defend themselves, dug their heels in determination and wielded their spears in such a threatening way that the mounted attackers did not dare to approach them. They were compelled to retreat. The Imam’s men showered the foes with arrows, killed some of them and wounded others**[2]** and the forces of Ibn Saad had to suffer huge losses and were not able to get any sort of success.

Burair’s Imprecation contest with Yazid

Yazid bin Moqal, an ally of Abdul Qais moved towards the camp of the Holy Imam (‘a) and reaching near, he called out in a loud voice to Burair bin Khudhair Hamadani, “O Burair, how do you find what Allah has destined for you?”

Burair replied to him with calmness and perfect faith, “By Allah He sent good with regard to me and evil for you…”

Indeed, the Allah Almighty conveyed goodness to Burair because He guided him with truth and made him among the companions of the beloved grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s). On the other hand He abandoned his oppressive and degraded opponent in the maze of misguidance and allowed him to be one of the killers of the sons of the Prophet.

That corrupt man retorted to Burair, “You lie! You were not a liar before this day. I testify that you are of the deviated ones.”

This wicked man has confessed in the truthfulness of Burair before that day. That is of the time he supported the truth and on that day he alleged that he had become a liar. Burair challenged him to an imprecation contest with him? ‘So that the Almighty Allah may curse the liar among us and destroy the one who is on falsehood?’

Yazid agreed and the two of them came before the two camps to take part in the imprecation contest and after that both of them came to attack each other. Yazid lashed at Burair but the strike had no effect on him. Burair turned to him and delivered such a terrible blow that his helmet split and the sword reached upto his brain. That filthy corrupt man was smeared in his blood while the sword had sunk into his head. He fell down and died a few moments later.[3]


[1] Qaza-a: It is a Yemenite tribe that had migrated to Kufa.
[2] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/65, Al-Irshad, 2/101
[3] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/66

Burair was elated that his heartfelt prayers had been fulfilled. He launched an attack on the camp of Ibn Saad, while all the units of that army looked at this incomparable warrior. Burair began to intone the following martial poem:

“I am Burair and my father is Khudhair.

I am not scared of the roar of a lion.

Righteous people recognize goodness by us.

I shall slay them and won’t have to suffer any loss.

And that good deed shall be performed by Burair.”[1]

He introduced himself to the troops of Ibn Saad and he informed them of his unequalled valor and that he was a lion that was not afraid of roaring. Rather he announced his daring and also that at the time when he would rain severe blows upon them, in this action, he did not see any doubt or sin.

Burair’s Martyrdom

Burair stepped forward to fight like a warrior eager for martyrdom while his being was full of faith, aim and determination to defend the beloved grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s). He called out aloud to the troops of Ibn Saad, “O killers of believing persons! Come near me! O murderers of the son of the daughter of the Messenger of the Lord of the worlds! Come here!”[2]

Razi bin Munqidh Abadi, the corrupt one attacked him and the two of them fought for sometime. However Burair subdued him and sat upon his chest about to behead him. While he was engrossed in his, the decadent corrupt man, Kaab bin Jabir Azadi attacked him from behind because he didn’t dare to attack him from the front. Thus he delivered a blow with a spear on the back of Burair and when he felt the blow he threw himself on Abadi and bit a part of his nose. But Kaab rushed upon him and martyred him.[3] In this way, the life of this exalted believer, who was a prominent Qari of Kufa, came to an end while his killer was condemned and people regarded him as a degraded person. So much so that even his wife began to hate him and she vowed never to speak to him again. She told him, “You have supported the opposition of the son of Fatima and killed Burair, a reciter of Quran. By Allah, I shall never speak to you again.”[4]

His cousin, Ubaidullah bin Jabir was also angry with him. He told him, “Woe be on you. Have you killed Burair? How you’ll face the Almighty?” That wicked man was himself deeply ashamed and he composed some couplets that described his grief and regret for having committed such a deadly oppression, that we have quoted in our previous discussions.


[1] Al Futuh 5/186
[2] Al Futuh 5/187
[3] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/399
[4] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/66-67

Martyrdom of Amr Ansari

Amr bin Qardha Ansari, a famous nobleman from Ansar stepped towards the field of Jihad and honor and with great courage initiated the war of loyalty and faith. He chopped off the heads of wicked people and rained death and destruction on the heads of the enemies, while reciting the following poem of war:

“The Ansars understood that I shall support the center of pledge and honor.

I shall sacrifice my life and house in defense of Husain with blows of youth that do not accept humiliation.”

By this war poem he announced that he was the supporter of pledges and honor. All the companions of the Imam possessed this quality because they were the chosen ones from Muslims for honoring pledges and respecting their promises. In the same way he announced that he would rain terrible blows upon the enemies and fight them with daring and courage in order to defend his chief and master, His Eminence, Husain (‘a) and in this way he was prepared to sacrifice his life and existence.

He fought the battle with a true intention and firm determination till he achieved martyrdom and his soul joined the exalted ranks. He had a brother among the misguided companions of Ibn Saad so when he saw his brother being killed he came towards the Imam’s camp and screamed, “O Husain, O liar, son of liar! You misguided my brother till you got him killed!”

Imam (‘a) replied to him, “The Almighty Allah did not deviate your brother. Rather He has guided him and made you deviated.”[1]

The Almighty Allah guided Amr and filled his heart with faith. He performed the Jihad till he reached martyrdom in defending the most sanctified matter of Islam. However, his brother was left deviated by the Almighty and his heart was made crooked. Thus he became a partner in the deadliest sin those wicked people had committed.

Umayyad Army refuses one to one fight

The Umayyad troops were tired of one to one fights because the Imam’s companions displayed such astonishing examples of valor that the Umayyads had to suffer huge losses. They raised a clamor in such a way that Amr bin Hajjaj Zubaidi, an important official of Ibn Saad’s army noticed that if one to one fights continued they shall all be eliminated as a result of the valor of Imam’s companions and the power of their certainty and that they had no fear of death at all. So he yelled at his troops and restrained them from person to person duels:

“O you fools! Don’t you know whom you are fighting? You are fighting the most outstanding mounted warriors from the people of this land and a group that is perfect and seeking martyrdom. So none of you can go to confront them without being killed. By God! If you all attack them together you could kill them with stones.”[2]


[1] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/399
[2] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/400

These statements point out the prominent qualities of the companions of the Holy Imam and their attitude. Some of them were as follows:

A. They were the knights of that country because they possessed remarkable valor and strength of determination that was not present in the troops of Ibn Saad.

B. They were folks having perception and knowledge who had realized the truth and understood the lofty values that the Imam has chosen as his slogans and was fighting to defend these same. Therefore they were fighting with full knowledge and obvious proof regarding their position. They were not like their enemies who were in misguidance and confusion and immersed in falsehood and deviation.

C. They were seeking martyrdom in defense of the Imam and had no hope in their life. They possessed all human virtues that were considered preferable by intellect so that they may achieve lofty valor, exalted honor and deep faith.

Historians say: Ibn Saad accepted the view of Ibn Hajjaj and ordered all his forces to stop fighting the companions of the Imam in single combat.[1]

Attack of Amr bin Hajjaj

Amr bin Hajjaj launched a huge attack on Imam’s entourage and indulged in severe fight of death with them. A most terrible and severe type of battle ensued. Both sides had to bear more losses of lives.

Martyrdom of Muslim bin Ausaja

One of the most prominent and incomparable companions of the Imam, Muslim bin Ausaja fell down fighting in the battlefield. Imam (‘a) rushed to him and reached him when he was in the throes of death. Imam moved near him and said, “O Muslim, may the Almighty have mercy on you, so of them is he who accomplished his vow, and of them is he who yet waits, and they have not changed in the least…”[2]

At that moment his friend and a partner in his Jihad, Habib bin Mazahir approached him and said, “Muslim, your death is hard for me to bear but I bring you good news of Heaven (where you are going).”

“May God bring you good news too,” replied Muslim in a weak voice.

Habib said, “Even though I know that I would follow you soon, I would still like you to appoint me to carry out everything which concerns you.”

Muslim made a bequest to him regarding that which was most precious to him. He pointed towards the Imam and said, “I will you regarding him, that you sacrifice your life to defend him.”

These were his last words.[3] Indeed, this is the greatness that indicates the height of nobility that the Imam’s companions possessed, because each of them was the representative of human nobility in all the times and places.


[1] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/400
[2] Surah Ahzab 33:23
[3] Al Bidayah wan Nihayah 8/182, Tabari, Tarikh 5/435-436

This is that same loyalty that is caused by unlimited faith. In those moments of their life they were neither worried about their families nor about any other worldly matter. Rather their concern was solely about Imam Husain (‘a) because they were sincere in their love for His Eminence to the last moments of their lives.

Ibn Saad’s troops sighed with relief when this great warrior was finally eliminated. They congratulated each other and exclaimed in delight, “Muslim has been killed!”

This matter was hard upon Shabth bin Rabi because he knew Muslim and acknowledged his merits to be great. Thus being affected by it he addressed those around him, “May your mothers mourn for you! You are killing yourselves and humiliating yourselves before others. Are you elated on killing Muslim? By the one for whom I accepted Islam, I was a witness of his contribution to the Muslims. I saw him, on the day of conquest of Azerbaijan that he slew six infidels before that the horses of Muslims may sleep (they may rest). Are your pleased at the killing of someone like him?”[1]

Those mutated people who had killed this great warrior; it was as if they had killed themselves, because he was killed in defense of their benefits and rights that the Umayyad regime considered of no importance.

Historians say: Muslim succeeded in putting to death some stalwarts of Ibn Saad’s troops. Of them were Ibn Abdullah Zubabi and Abdur Rahman Ibn Abi Khashkara Bajali.[2]

Shimr’s Attack

The leprous wicked man, Shimr bin Zil Jaushan attacked with a battalion of his the left wing of the Imam’s army that consisted of only 32 mounted fighters. But they stood firm against him and forced him away (with their spears). Imam Husain and his followers were attacked on every side but they fought fiercely. Then their cavalry began to attack and even though they were only thirty-two horsemen, they did not attack any side of the Kufan cavalry without putting it to flight.[3]

Martyrdom of Abdullah Kalbi

Abdullah bin Umar Kalbi fought Jihad like the valiant ones and slashed with his sword on the left and right. According to historians he killed 19 horsemen and 12 foot soldiers,[4] while he had received multiple injuries and was severely wounded. Hani bin Thabeet Hadhrami and Bukair bin Hayy Tamimi pounced upon him and martyred him.[5] In this manner ended the life of this warrior who sacrificed himself for the love and devotion towards the beloved grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s). His wife, the lady Umme Wahab came out looking for him and searched him  


[1] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/67-68, Tabari, Tarikh 5/436
[2] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/68
[3] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/68
[4] Ibne Shahr Aashob, Manaqib 4/101
[5] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/68

among the corpses. When she found it she sat down besides him and congratulated him for his martyrdom with faith and sincerity. She said,

“Congratulations for having achieved Paradise. I pray the Almighty to join me with you in Paradise.”

She continued to invocate the Almighty in this way when suddenly Shimr bin Zil Jaushan the most wicked person on the earth saw her. He ordered his slave, Rustom to eliminate her. The slave hit her on the head from behind with an iron mace. She was martyred in the battlefield. Historians say: She was the first female companion of Imam Husain (‘a) to be killed.[1] This denotes that there were other ladies also who were martyred from the side of the Holy Imam (‘a) in the battlefield. And in this way the system of the period of Ignorance returned and the law promulgated by Islam against harming ladies and children was trespassed.

Urwah Asks for Help

Urwah bin Qais was a prominent commander in Ibn Saad’s troops and an expert of warfare. On seeing the bravery of Imam’s followers and the unprecedented losses that their troops had suffered he became very much worried. So he asked Ibn Saad to send more archers and foot soldiers to support them.

He said, “Don’t you see what my cavalry is receiving today from this small number of men? Send the foot soldiers and archers against them.”

Ibn Saad ordered Shabth bin Rabi to go for his help but he did not accept it. He said, “Glory be to God, could you not find anyone else for this job?”

Shabth bin Rabi was not fully satisfied in participating in this battle and he has often spoken of this matter. For example he used to say, “The Almighty Allah would never bless the people of this land and may He not guide them. Don’t you see that we have killed the best of men? We fought them on the side of the family of Muawiyah and the son of Sumaiyyah, the fornicator. This is evil and a strange evil it is!”

When Ibn Saad heard this he summoned Haseen bin Numair and with him dispatched five hundred well-armed and equipped archers with the order that they must shoot at the companions of the Imam. They showered the followers of Husain (‘a) with arrows. They continued shooting at them until they had lamed most of their horses and wounded some of their men. Then they moved against them and a fierce battle was fought between them for some time. Most of the Imam’s followers were now on foot but despite this there was not the slightest decline in their fervor and courage. And they remained steadfast like lofty mountains and did not move a step backwards while Hurr Ibn Yazid also afoot, followed alongside them. Battle raged more furiously and historians have considered it to be the fiercest of all battles. It continued till midday.[2]


[1] Tabari, Tarikh 5/438
[2] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/68-69. Tabari, Tarikh 5/436-438

Opening of Another front

Ibn Saad noticed that since only a single front was open in the battle, it would prolong the hostilities and his troops were bound to suffer huge losses. Therefore it was decided to open upon another front that would expedite the elimination of the remaining men of Imam Husain (‘a). So he issued orders that the tents and camps of the Imam’s followers that were on the left and right of the tents of the Imam should be attacked and uprooted so that the Imam’s entourage would be busy in defending their tents and hence their front shall be weakened.

Soldiers of Ibn Saad launched the attack and began to uproot the tents. However some companions of the Imam were lying in ambush and they began to kill them and maim their horses. As a result of it their plan was changed into a terrible defeat and they could not gain any sort of advantage. Ibn Saad again commanded them to put the tents afire so that riders may attack them. Imam’s followers tried to prevent them but the Imam restrained them from it and said, “Let them burn the tents. If they do so they would not be able to cross over to reach you.” It happened as His Eminence had foretold. The burning tents became a barrier between the enemy and the Imam’s companions and only one battlefront remained as before.[1]

Shimr tries to burn to death the Ladies of Revelation

The filthy wicked Shimr bin Zil Jaushan attacked the tents housing the ladies of the house of revelation and the noble maids of Prophet’s family, screaming, “Get me fire so that I may burn down the occupants of these tents.”

This transmogrified monster had gone much ahead in wickedness and decadence and it is certain that there was none among the martial oppressors and deviated ones of the land like this criminal in wickedness and decadence of nature and lowliness of temperament.

Fear loomed over the daughters of the Messenger of Allah (s) and they began to tremble. They came out of the tents in anxiety and their wails arose, while the children and infants were crying behind them. This tragic scene was absolutely shocking and Imam Husain (‘a) was deeply hurt by it. He screamed at that filthy wicked man, “Would you burn down my house with my family? May the Almighty burn you with (Hell) fire.”[2]

That wicked one did not change his decision and was ordering his soldiers in the same way to hand over to him a flame so that he may burn down the tents of Ahle Bayt.

Objection of Hamid bin Muslim

Hamid bin Muslim objected to Shimr and after he witnessed the terror and fear that had surrounded the daughters of Allah’s Messenger (s) he hastened to Shimr and said, “You won’t gain anything from this. Do you want to earn two sins because of  


[1] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/69
[2] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/69

it, that is killing of ladies and killing of children? By Allah, your chief will be satisfied by the killings of men alone.”

“Who are you?” asked Shimr in fury.

Hamid bin Muslim feared that if he introduced himself he may complain about him to Ibn Ziyad. So he said, “I shall not tell you who I am.”[1]

That decadent wicked oppressor remained adamant in his injustice so that he may increase his sins through them.

Condemnation of Shabth bin Rabi

Shabth bin Rabi hurried to Shimr and condemned him in a furious tone and restrained him from that serious crime. He had to give up against his wish and was about to go away from there when Zuhair bin Qain attacked him with ten soldiers and chased him away. They fought with the mercenaries and Abu Arza Zubabi a relative of Shimr was killed. At this moment the soldiers attacked the Imam’s followers. The number of killed and wounded was apparent among the followers of Imam Husain (‘a) because of the fewness of their number while it was not so apparent among the followers of Ibn Saad because of their great number.[2]

Noon prayer time arrives

Midday arrived and it was the time of Zuhr prayers. The believing fighter of Jihad, Abu Thamama Saidi stood up and looked towards the sky as if he was in anticipation of the thing most beloved to him, which was prayer. When he saw that the sun has crossed the zenith he glanced at Imam (‘a) and said, “May I be sacrificed on you. I see that they have come close to us. By Allah you shall not be harmed till I lay down my life in your defense and I wish to meet my Lord after having performed the prayer whose time has arrived…”

Death was only a few steps from him but he was neither forgetful of the remembrance of his Lord nor about fulfillment of his religious duty. All the followers of the Imam had such faith in God and in this way they were loyal in fulfillment of their duty.

Imam raised his head towards the sky and calculated the time and saw that the time to perform the religious duty had arrived. So he told Abu Thamama, “You have remembered the Prayer, may Allah include you among the praying ones. Yes, it is the earliest hour for noon prayer…”

Imam asked his companions to request the army of Ibn Ziyad to pause in the battle so that they may perform their devotions to the Almighty Lord. The plea was conveyed to the attacking army but the wicked dirty man, Haseen bin Numair said, “This prayer shall not be valid!”


[1] Al Bidayah wan Nihayah 8/183
[2] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/69-70

Habib bin Mazahir asked in a taunting tone, “You claim that the prayer of the family of the Messenger of Allah (s) will not be accepted but that it will be accepted from you, O donkey?”

Haseen attacked him but Zuhair laid a swift blow to his horse’s mouth and it bolted dislodging its rider to the ground. His colleagues rushed forward and saved him.[1]

The battle continued and before the Imam could complete his prayer some of his companions reached martyrdom while defending him and after that the duty was performed as we shall explain in detail.

Martyrdom of Habib

Habib Ibn Mazahir was the most prominent companion of the Imam and one who made the most efforts in defending His Eminence. He was the right hand of the Imam and one who had purified his soul and nourished it with wisdom and truth. He was a companion of Imam Amirul Momineen and from his special officers,[2] having a deep perception and stable faith.

Historians say: He was the one most elated and overjoyed person on the day of Ashura in anticipation of martyrdom in service of the grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s). He moved towards the battlefield eager for martyrdom reciting the following lines of Rajaz song:

“I am Habib and my father is Mazahir, a knight on the battle day among the flames of war.

By my life, you are more in number but we are more loyal and patient than you.

Our argument is more dominant and clear regarding the truth and more lasting and valid than yours.”[3]

He informed them about his esteemed personality and the lofty qualities that he possessed because he was of the outstanding warriors and famous knights who did not allow fear and trepidation to reach their hearts. And he announced that in spite of the large numbers of Ibn Saad’s troops and the paucity of the supporters of Imam Husain (‘a), the Imam’s followers were having more loyalty and patience and they exceeded their enemies as far as their convictions and proving their rightfulness was concerned. Thus by having these qualities, they were more deserving of immortality and more suitable for permanence.

Habib fought a furious battle and despite his advanced age succeeded in putting to death 62 fellows from the enemy side. The impure wicked man, Budail bin Sareem attacked him and slashed him with a sword and other degraded fellows of Tamim tribe jabbed him with their spears. He fell down and tried to continue fighting, but Haseen bin Numair rushed to him and delivered a sword strike upon his blessed head. He fell down again and that Tamimi dismounted his horse and decapitated  


[1] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/70
[2] Imam Khui, Mojamur Rijall Hadith 4/227
[3] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/402

him and that pure spirit, well-satisfied and pleased rose up towards the Lord. Habib’s slaying deeply aggrieved His Eminence, Husain (‘a). He stood besides that honorable corpse sighing in sorrow and immersed in grief and remarked, “Allah shall be pleased with me and those friends of mine who render help.”[1]

Hurr’s Martyrdom

At that moment, the great warrior, Hurr bin Yazid Riyahi, who had responded positively to the call of truth, and preferred the Hereafter over this world, came to the battlefield and went to welcome death smiling in joy of having helped the beloved grandson of Allah’s Messenger (s). He performed a severe fight all the time intoning the following lines:

“I am Hurr and the refuge-giver to the guests who shall attack you with the sword.

In defense of the one who is the best to come to land of Khaif. I shall rain blows on you and not be regretful of it.”[2]

In this poem he spoke of his nobility and generosity and that his home was a shelter for guests and the center of messengers. He also announced that he shall strike off their necks with his sword in defense of the Holy Imam who the most honorable personality to be present in the land of Khaif. And in this matter he had neither any doubt nor any regret in fighting them.

Hurr fought while Zuhair bin Qain accompanied him. When one of them was caught up in crowd of fighters the other used to rush for his help and had him freed. This continued for quite some time.[3]

Hurr’s horse got multiple wounds yet he did not dismount it but continued to remain astride it and fight them reciting the lines of Antara:

“In this way I strike below their necks and chests till they are bathed in blood.”

There was a deep rooted and bitter enmity between Hurr and Yazid bin Sufyan. Haseen bin Numair took this into consideration and said to Yazid, “This is Hurr, whom you desire to kill.” Yazid attacked. Hurr swooped upon him and killed him.[4] Ayyub bin Mashruh aimed an arrow at Hurr’s horse and maimed it. The horse stampeded but Hurr jumped from it like a lion without incurring any harm. He began to fight on foot with courage till he put to the sword according to historians, 42 men from the enemy side.[5] Finally the foot soldiers attacked him with swords and spears and he fell down bathed in his pure blood. Companions of the Holy Imam hastened towards him and carried him to the Imam’s tent in front of which they fought, and placed him on the ground. Imam stood besides him and looked  


[1] Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/70. Tabari, Tarikh 5/439-440
[2] Al Futuh 5/185
[3] Al Bidayah wan Nihayah 8/183-184
[4] Tabari, Tarikh 5/434
[5] Al Manaqib, Ibne Shahr Aashob 4/100

with a sight full of divine effulgence at his manly face. Imam’s followers also stood in a respectful manner. Imam (‘a) stepped forward and cleaned the blood from Hurr’s face and lamented for him with the following lines:

“You are ‘free’ (Hurr) like your mother named you. And you are free in the world and the Hereafter.”

Verily! Hurr was free (noble) and his conscience dominated his selfish desire and he chose martyrdom in defense of the Chief of the youths of Paradise over the life of this world and with his honorable death he trod on the path of Allah. One of the Imam’s followers recited the following dirge in his honor:

“The best of free men is Hurr bin Riyahi that even during continuous strikes of spears.

He became the best freeman when he sacrificed himself on Husain and gave up his life in the morning.”[1]

Fulfilling the Duty of Prayer

Inspite of that which had aggrieved the Imam, that is the calamities by whose fear mountains would have pulverized, His Eminence’s prime concern was to fulfill the duty of obligatory prayer, which is the most important worship act in Islam. He requested his enemies to give respite so that they may stand up in the worship of God. They agreed to give respite and His Eminence focused his attention on the Almighty and faced his Lord. Along with the surviving companions he performed the prayer of fear.[2] The prayer of His Eminence, in those moments of danger, was the most obvious sign of his devotion and obedience of Allah.

Saeed bin Abdullah Hanafi stood in front of Imam Husain (‘a) so that he may defend His Eminence from the arrows and spears thrown from the enemy camp. Because they broke the pledge to give respite for prayer and taking this as an opportunity they began to shoot arrows towards the Imam and his companions.

Saeed Hanafi, according to historians rushed in the direction of coming arrows and stopped them with his chest and neck. He stood like a mountain and the arrows aimed at him failed to dislodge him from his position. The Imam had hardly concluded his prayer that he was seriously wounded by that time and he fell down bathed in his own blood and in a soft voice he was saying,

“O Allah! Curse them with the curse of Aad and Thamud and convey our salutation to Your Prophet and convey to him the pain I suffered from injuries as by this act I desire Your reward and to render help to the Progeny of Your Prophet.”

Then he glanced at the Imam to see if he has fulfilled his right and honored the pledge he had made to His Eminence. He asked, “O son of Allah’s Messenger (s), have I fulfilled it?”


[1] Al Futuh 5/186
[2] Khwarizmi, Maqtal Husain (a.s.) 2/17

Imam (‘a) replied to him thankfully, “Yes, you shall be in Paradise with me.”

When he heard the Imam’s reply, his being became filled with satisfaction and happiness. At that moment his pure soul flew to his Lord while his physical body was shred into pieces by arrows and spears, because in addition to sword and spear blows thirteen arrows had hit him. Indeed this is indescribable and indefinable loyalty.

Zuhair’s Martyrdom

Among the companions of Imam Husain (‘a), whose beings were fused with faith in Allah, was Zuhair bin Qain. He was in great haste to go towards Paradise and shake hands with His Eminence, the Holy Prophet (s). Happy and elated by loyalty in the path of the Imam he went to His Eminence and kept his hand on the shoulder of His Eminence, Husain (‘a) and addressed the Imam with the following Rajaz (war poem):

“Come, as you are the guide and the guided one. Today I shall meet your Holy grandfather.

And Hasan and Murtuza Ali and Ja’far with a pair of wings, the daring man.

And the Lion of God, that living martyr.”[1]

This recitation indicates his rightful faith devoid of every doubt and with certainty that he shall succeed in meeting the Prophet of Allah (s), his vicegerent, Amirul Momineen, His Eminence Hasan, His Eminence, Ja’far and His Eminence, Hamzah and it was the best thing that he was thinking.

Imam replied to him, “I shall also meet him after you.”[2]

That valiant fighter attacked the troops of Ibn Saad reciting the following lines of Rajaz poetry:

“I am Zuhair and son of Qain who would chase you away from Husain with swords.”

He informed them about himself and announced to them that he shall battle with them to defend his leader, His Eminence, Husain (‘a). He began to fight a fierce battle and according to historians he killed 120 men**[3]** and performed such a battle that it cannot be described.

Muhajir bin Aws and Kathir bin Abdullah Shobi attacked him and conveyed him to martyrdom. His Eminence, Husain (‘a) went to the place of his martyrdom extremely sorrowful and aggrieved. Then he cast a farewell glace and remarked in a forlorn tone, “O Zuhair, may the Almighty not make you distant, and may He curse your murderers. Such a curse that they be transmogrified into monkeys and pigs…”[4]


[1] Maqtal Imam Husain, Khwarizmi 2/20
[2] Tabari, Tarikh 5/441
[3] Muqarram, Maqtal, Pg. 247
[4] Khwarizmi, Maqtal Husain (a.s.) 2/20

Martyrdom of Nafe bin Hilal

Among those who had dedicated their lives to the Almighty Allah was Nafe bin Hilal Jamli. He hastened towards the battlefield with faith and sincerity and with poisoned arrows began to confront the enemies of God. He had inscribed those arrows with his name. As he fought he went on reciting:

“I am shooting arrows at them while they are bigger and poisoned too and they cut off their flight.

Till by throwing them the field becomes full and greed is not in any way beneficial to the soul.”

In this manner he shot them with his arrows till he reached his last one. Then he drew his sword and attacked them reciting the following Rajaz song:

“I am a Tamimi Bajali youth and my religion is same as the religion of Husain bin Ali.

If I am killed today and my action is this and that belief of mine, I shall face my deeds.”

He has introduced himself and also stated that his religious beliefs were based on the religion of His Eminence, Husain (‘a), the beloved grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s). Also that he shall fight in defense of his faith.

He fought with a firm determination devoid of any shakiness when he saw the loneliness and isolation of his chief, Husain (‘a).

In such a way 12 persons were killed by him, in addition to those he had seriously wounded.[1] At that moment, the enemies of God surrounded him from all sides and began to shoot arrows at him and pelt him with stones. At last both his arms were broken and he could no more be able to wield his sword. They rushed upon him and took him as a prisoner to Ibn Saad.

“What has made you do this to yourself? asked Ibn Saad.

Like one having faith in Almighty he replied, “My Lord knows what I desire.”

A fellow of Ibn Saad glanced at him while his face bled and blood dripped from his beard, and said to him, “Don’t you know what came over you?”

In a taunting manner to infuriate them he replied, “By Allah, I have killed twelve of your men and this is apart from those I wounded. I shall not condemn myself for the deed I have performed and if my arms had remained healthy you wouldn’t have taken me as a hostage.”

The wicked leper, Shimr bin Zil Jaushan arose, took a sword and slew him.

Nafe was shouting at him, “O Shimr, by Allah, if you had been a Muslim it would have been very hard on you to meet the Lord with our blood on your hands. But thanks be to Allah that He appointed our death at the hands of His creatures.


[1] Khwarizmi, Maqtal 2/21

Yes, by Allah, if something had been less important than religion for Shimr he would not have committed that crime, because only one commits it that has no relationship with God.

That degraded one moved to Nafe and striked off his neck**[1]** and in this way came to an end the life of that great warrior having sincerity about his religion, earnest in defending the son of the Messenger of Allah (s) and the greatest man in Islam in steadfastness for truth and true intention for its defense.

Abis and Shauzab

When the divinely inspired warrior, Abis bin Shabeeb Shakiri saw the loneliness of the Imam and the coming together of the people of Kufa for slaying His Eminence to went to his colleague in Jihad, Shauzab, the slave of Shakir**[2]** and asked him, “O Shauzab, have you decided what to do?”

Shauzab stood up to speak about his loyalty and spirit of sacrifice present in his decision. Thus he said, “I shall fight unto death.”

Abis thanked and praised him and said, “Go ahead for the service of Aba Abdillah so that he may take you into account like he has taken into account others than you, because today is the day when we can demand whatever reward we want.”

What faith could be like this faith? He strived with all his capabilities to obtain whatever he could that would make him more proximate to Almighty Allah.

Shauzab went forward and invoked blessings on the Imam. Then he attacked the troops of Ibn Saad and fought like a valiant fighter till he achieved martyrdom in the service of Abu Abdillah.[3]

Martyrdom of Abis Shakiri

Abis Shakiri belonged to a noble family having great respect and honor. That family was famous for its bravery and sincerity about truth, and His Eminence, Imam Ali (‘a) has said regarding it, “If their number reaches upto a thousand, Almighty Allah shall be worshipped as befits Him.”

They had received the title of “the morning stalwarts.” Abis was the elder of the family and the most famous of them. He was of those who carried His Eminence, Muslim’s letter to His Eminence, Husain (‘a), in which the Imam was requested to come to Iraq immediately. He remained in the service of the Holy Imam from Mecca to Kerbala and he was the foremost of his companion in his love and devotion to His Eminence. He came forward to obtain the permission of His Eminence to fight. He spoke to the Imam and spoke of his deep love that he cultivated for His Eminence and he said,

“There is no one, near or far on the face of the earth as precious for me as your  


[1] Ibne Kathir, Tarikh 8/184, Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/404
[2] It has come in Ziarat Rajabia: Suwaid, the slave of Shakir, Biharul Anwar 101/341
[3] Tabari, Tarikh 5/443-444

goodself. If I were able to remove your hardship I would have done so even if it necessitated sacrificing something more precious to me than my life. Peace be on you! I testify that I am on the path of your guidance and the guidance of your Holy father.”[1]

After that he launched an attack on Ibn Saad’s camp and challenged them to confront him. However no one accepted his challenge because all of them were afraid to face him as they knew him to be the most valiant of men. They called to each other while their hearts were full of terror and fear had caused their complexions to pale. They said, “This is the most ferocious lion, this is the son of Abu Shabeeb, none of you must go out to accept his challenge…”

Ibn Saad screamed at his troops, “Stone him!”

They picked up stones and began to pelt him from all sides. When that warrior saw their terror and refusal to accept his challenge, he threw away his coat of mail and helmet and pounced upon them like a lion and drove away more than a hundred mounted soldiers from before himself. They began to attack him from all sides, threw him down and beheaded him. But they began to argue among themselves. Each of them claimed to have killed him so that he may be entitled for the reward. However, Ibn Saad did not accept that one of them be his killer. Rather a group of them shared in his killing**[2]** and in this manner came to a close the life of that mighty stalwart who strived to his best in defense of Islam and performed a Jihad like the Jihad of the Prophets.

Zahhak flees

Zahhak bin Abdullah Musharrafi was one of the Imam’s followers but when he witnessed so many companions being killed he decided to flee from there. He came to His Eminence, Husain (‘a) and said, “I have accompanied you so that whenever you face a battle I may die with you. So allow me to go way, because I am incapable of defending you or myself.”

Imam (‘a) permitted him to leave and he fled from there. Some men of Ibn Saad blocked his way but later left him off. He thus escaped from there and could not obtain martyrdom in the service of the beloved grandson of the Messenger of Allah.”[3]

Jaun’s Martyrdom

Jaun is an outstanding personality of Islam.[4] He was the slave of Abu Zar Ghiffari and much advanced in age. But his being was brimming with piety and faith. His black skin and unremarkable lineage did not prevent him from achieving that lofty status and he became a prominent Muslim. And he was able to earn such honor and respectability that no warrior in history has been able to gain.


[1] Tabari, Tarikh 5/444
[2] Tabari, Tarikh 5/444
[3] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/404-405. Tabari, Tarikh 5/444-445
[4] It is said that his name was Huwi. Tabari, Tarikh 5/420

Historians say: He approached the Holy Imam (‘a) and begged him for permission to sacrifice his life in service of His Eminence.

Imam told him, “O Jaun, you accompanied us in need of life, you are authorized by me (to go away).”

Jaun threw himself at the feet of the Holy Imam and kissed them. Tears were flowing upon his face and he was saying, “In prosperity I lick your vessels but in hardships should I abandon you? My smell is not pleasing, my origin and lineage is unremarkable and my skin is black. Bestow Paradise to me so that my body becomes fragrant, my origin and lineage gain honor and my skin turns fair. No by Allah, I shall not leave you till this black blood fuses with your bloods…”[1]

These brilliant statements, what greatness they speak of? And what an honor that soul had obtained...? His black skin was the most illuminated and elegant from the complexions of those slaves. He was a freeman with that loftiness of courage and personal nobility that he possessed. His smell was more pleasing than theirs and his origin and lineage was illuminated. The people of Kufa themselves were rendered of unknown identities, because they were not aware of their humanity and they brought disgrace and dishonor for all humanity.

Jaun’s statement was full of the logic of a noble man, because it is against humanity that he should remain under the protection of the Imam during times of peace and prosperity but in hard times, desert the Holy Imam. This was so because loyalty was one of the dominating qualities of each of the companions of Imam Abu Abdillah which distinguished them from all the other martyrs of the world.

Imam accorded permission to him and he set out for the battlefield full of self-respect reciting the following:

“O sinner how will you see the black strikes from the wielded and original sword?

We defend the children of Muhammad (s) with the sword. We shall defend them by the tongue and by hand.

Through this I am hopeful of being saved on the day of gathering by the One and Only Lord.

Because there is no intercessor like Ahmad near Him.”[2]

By this Rajaz poetry he has described his daring and courage and that he was defending the children of the Prophet (s) and shall continue to help them by his words and deeds and by doing thus he was hopeful of salvation and intercession of the Prophet (s).

Jaun fought like a courageous fighter and according to historians, he eliminated 25 fellows from the enemies. At last the enemies of God fell upon him and martyred  


[1] Ibne Numa, Matheer al-Ahzaan, Pg. 63
[2] Al Futuh 5/198

him. Imam (‘a) hurried to his side and glanced at his blood smeared body. He prayed for him, “O Allah, make his face fair and his body fragrant and raise him up with Muhammad and bestow him with the recognition of Aale Muhammad.”

The Almighty Allah accepted the Imam’s supplication because whoever passed through that battlefield perceived from him a fragrance more pleasing than that of musk.[1]

Martyrdom of Hanzalah Shabami

Hanzalah Shabami was the gentleman who had constructed his life with faith in God and he lived with faith and piety till he obtained the path to the loftiest of human values. He went to the Imam with eagerness and inclination in order to obtain for himself the status of martyrdom with the companions of the Imam. He pleaded for permission from His Eminence and the Imam granted it to him. He set out for the battle front and began to exhort those people towards rightfulness and reminded them of the abode of the Hereafter. He said:

“O people I fear for you a day like the day of confederates, like the community of Nuh, Aad, Thamud and those who succeeded them. The Almighty Allah will not be unjust to the people. O people! I am fearful regarding you for the day of entreaties, the day you shall be turned back and not have any refuge from the Almighty Allah. One who is led astray by Allah is not guided…O people! Do not slay Husain lest the Almighty involves you in chastisement. Whosoever resorts to slander, fails…”

Those decadent people could not understand his statements. They continued in their disobedience and misguidance as the Lord Almighty had sealed their hearts and ears and they could not see.

Imam (‘a) thanked him for his discourse and said, “May Allah have mercy on you. They have become eligible for divine chastisement. They have requited you with the matters you told them inviting them to truth and they stood to confront you to destroy you and your colleagues. Then how can it be that they have killed your rightful brothers?”

“You are right, son of Allah’s Messenger! Are we not heading for the Hereafter?”[2]

The Holy Imam gave him permission and he moved to the field of battle with eagerness till he achieved martyrdom. He fought like a courageous soldier till he was martyred fulfilling his pledge to the Almighty that he would support the truth and sacrifice himself on the path of Islam.

Martyrdom of Hajjaj

Among the illuminated pages of loyalty that were embellished with the greatness of humanity was Hajjaj bin Masruq Jofi. He rushed speedily to the battle front and performed a ferocious fight till he was bathed in his chaste blood. He became extremely elated and joyful for having beautifully fulfilled his loyalty to Imam  


[1] Muqarram, Maqtal, Pg. 252
[2] Tabari, Tarikh 5/443

Husain (‘a). He returned to His Eminence and addressed the Imam with this poem:

“I shall meet your grandfather, the Prophet today and after that your father, Ali, the generous one, whom I recognize to be the vicegerent of the Prophet.”

He came to the blessed grandson of the Messenger of Allah (s) with his head held high due to having displayed remarkable loyalty and sacrifice.

Imam replied to him, “I shall meet them after you.”

Then he returned to the battle ground and resumed fighting with courage and steadfastness till he was martyred in defense of truth.[1] May he be rewarded with the best and everlasting divine rewards.

Martyrdom of Amr bin Junada

The fruitful youth, Amr bin Junada Ansari, the most youthful soldier in the army of Husain (‘a) came to the field. In intellect and religion he was superior to every fellow of Ibn Saad’s camp. Historians say, “He was eleven years old and his father had been martyred in the battle. When he approached the Imam to permit him to fight, His Eminence refused it saying, “This boy’s father was martyred in the very first attack and perhaps his mother would not like him to go out and fight.”

The youth persisted with the Imam and said, “My mother has ordered me to go.”

The Imam then gave him permission. That young man sped to the ground in eagerness. Not much time passed but that he was martyred and the lowly creatures of Kufa severed his head from his body and tossed it towards the camp of Imam Husain (‘a). His respected mother came towards it, took it in her arms and kissed it profusely. Then cleaned up the blood and tossed the head to a man nearest to her and threw it down. She ran back to the tents and picking up a tent pole attacked the enemies of God reciting the following lines of poetry:

“I am an old woman from the weak ladies; absolutely hollow and empty from inside...

I shall give terrible blows to you in defense of the son of the honorable Fatima.”

She wounded two persons but the Imam sped to her and made her return to the camps.[2] The isolation of the Holy Imam had deeply affected the emotions of this great lady and after sending her beloved child to the battlefield she herself rushed to the field so that she may lay down her life for her master. These are really the favors of faith and devotion.

Martyrdom of Anas Kahili

Anas bin Harith Kahili was a companion of the Holy Prophet (s) and with His Eminence he participated in the battles of Badr and Hunain. He had heard His Eminence state, “This son of mine (that is His Eminence, Husain) shall be killed in  


[1] Muqarram, Maqtal, Pg. 253-254
[2] Khwarizmi, Maqtal 2/21-22

the land of Kerbala. So whosoever of you is present there must support him.”[1]

He was a gentleman much advanced in age but he remained in the service of His Eminence, Husain (‘a) and accompanied him from Mecca. He sought permission of His Eminence to perform Jihad in his service. His Eminence granted the permission. He tied his waist with turban because his body was stooping. In the same way his drooping eyebrows were tied to his forehead.

When the Holy Imam (‘a) looked at him, he began to weep and said, “The Almighty Allah conveys thanks to you, O Shaykh!” Despite his old age he fought like a brave warrior and reports state that he killed 18 persons and after that he was martyred**[2]** and his pure soul joined with the prophets, the truthful ones and the martyrs in the high realm. And how pleasing is their company.

Martyrdom of Abul Shasa

Abul Shasa Yazid bin Ziyad Muhajir Kandi was a brave stalwart and an outstanding knight of the Arabs. He was among those who had come out with Ibn Saad to confront the Holy Imam. When the Imam put forth his proposals and Ibn Saad did not accept them, he came over to the Imam’s side**[3]** and shot the soldiers of Ibn Saad with his arrows. Historians say that he shot one hundred arrows upon them of which only one missed its target. Whenever he shot an arrow the Imam said, “O Allah, make his arrow find its target and make Paradise his reward.”

When the stock of his arrows was exhausted, he drew out his sword and attacked them intoning the following Rajaz poem:

“I am Yazid and my father is Muhajir, braver than a lion that rests in a grove.[4]

Lord, I am in support of Husain and am away and aloof from Ibn Saad.”

He fought valiantly till he received the position of martyrdom**[5]** and in this way came to a close the life of this great man in defense of the religion of God and in support of the blessed grandson of Allah’s Messenger (s).

Martyrdom of Two Jabiris

Among the most outstanding colleagues of the Holy Imam (‘a) were two Jabiris, namely Saif bin Harith bin Saree Jabiri and Malik bin Abd bin Saree Jabiri. They were brothers from their mother’s side and cousins of each other. They approached the Imam while tears were flowing from their eyes. The Imam asked them, “What has caused you to weep. I am hopeful that at a later hour your eyes shall be illuminated.”


[1] Usud al-Ghaba 1/349. Al-Isabah 1/68. Kanzul Ummal 12/126, H. 34314
[2] Muqarram, Maqtal, Pg. 252-253
[3] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/405. Ibne Athir, Tarikh 4/73 and it is mentioned there that he was the first martyr from the companions of the Imam.
[4] In Al Futuh 5/199 it has come with some variation.
[5] Ansaab al-Ashraaf 3/405

The two of them quickly replied, “May Allah make us your ransom! We are not weeping at ourselves. We are crying for you. We see that you have been surrounded but there is no way we can be of any use to you.”

The hearts of the companions of the Imam were rich with remarkable devotion and deep sincerity regarding His Eminence. They were only worried about him and they were only affected with his grief and sorrow.

Those two Jabiris fought with zeal and when the swords and spears had cut up their bodies they reached martyrdom near the Holy Imam (‘a).[1]

Martyrdom of Two Ghiffaris

Two brothers, Abdullah and Abdur Rahman, sons of Urwah Ghiffari arrived in the grounds of Jihad and fought with exemplary fervor till they were martyred in the service of Imam Husain (‘a).

Martyrdom of Two Ansaris

When Imam (‘a) called out for help and sought helpers and supporters to defend the ladies of the family of prophethood and noble women of the abode of revelation this matter deeply affected these two Ansaris. They were Saad bin Harith and his brother Abul Hatoof and they were in the party of Ibn Saad. They attacked the troops of Ibn Saad with wielded swords and fought till they achieved martyrdom.[2]

Martyrdom of Anees

Anees bin Mauqal Asbahi entered the plains of Jihad for the sake of Aba Abdillah while chanting the following poem of war:

“I am Anees and I am the son of Mauqal. In my right hand is a broad and a polished sword.

I strike with it in the battle so that it becomes clear and with it I hack at the heads of soldiers amidst the dust of the battlefield.

In defense of Husain with elegance, son of the Messenger of God, the best of the Prophets.”

This Rajaz poem is expressive of religious sentiments dominating him; because he introduced himself and announced that they were fighting in defense of the son of Allah’s Messenger (s) and in this matter he had no desire except to earn the pleasure of Allah…this stalwart fought a furious battle till he reached martyrdom.[3]

Martyrdom of Qurra Ghiffari

Among the companions of the Imam martyred on the way of truth was Qurra bin Abi Qurra Ghiffari who departed for the battlefield humming the following Rajaz:


[1] Tabari, Tarikh 5/442-443, Ibne Athir, Tarikh 3/392
[2] Hadaiq al-Wardiya 1/122
[3] Al Futuh 5/198-199

“Indeed the Bani Ghiffar knew and Khandaf after the Bani Nizar.

That I am a lion in the dust of the battle to slash at the transgressing people.

With every original cutting sword I hack in defense of the family of the Chosen Prophet.

The family of the Prophet, those chiefs of the righteous ones.”[1]

This Rajaz is brimming with life and feelings for the defense of the family of the Prophet (s) that indicates his valor so that the Bani Ghiffar, Khandaf and Bani Nizar, all the tribes can vouch for his bravery. He fought for defending the chief of the righteous, the sons of Allah’s Messenger (s) in a remarkable Jihad...the stalwart of Ghiffari clan put up a severe fight till he fell down wounded by the blows of swords and spears and his lofty soul joined the highest realm.

Martyrdom of Yahya Mazini

Yahya bin Muslim Mazini departed for the fighting grounds reciting the following poetic composition:

“I shall attack these people with sword blows that would cut them apart. Terrible blows that would soon rain upon the enemies.

Neither shall I be weak in it nor would I show any sloth. Nor do I fear the approaching death today.

But I am like a lion defending its cubs.”

Through these lines he declared his bravery and that he would rain terrible strikes on his enemies and fight them with valor and manly determination. Such that he shall neither display any sort of weakness nor any laziness. He also is not fearful of death. Rather he shall attack them like a lion in order to defend the Progeny of the Messenger of Allah. He attacked them like a fighter and fought a severe battle till he reached martyrdom in the service of His Eminence, Abu Abdillah (‘a).[2]

The Imam (‘a) and his companions

Imam (‘a) blew into the hearts of his companions the spirit of determination and fortitude and trained them to be patient before hardships. He told them:

“O sons of great men! Be patient, for death is nothing but a bridge that would take you from hardships and difficulties towards vast gardens and everlasting bounties. Which of you would not like to be transferred from a prison to a palace? My father has narrated from Allah’s Messenger (s) that he said, ‘The world is a prison for a believer and a paradise for an infidel and death is the bridge that conveys the former to gardens and the latter to Hell.’ Neither have I lied nor been lied to.”[3]


[1] Al Futuh 5/195
[2] Al Futuh 5/194
[3] Abdullah bin Nurullah, Maqtal al-Husain Awalim Imam Husain 17/351

These words enflamed their passions and they rushed to the whirlpools of death like a raging storm so that they may reach their positions in the garden of perpetuity.

Martyrdom of Abdullah Yazani

Abdullah Yazani hurried to the fields of battle and fought with exemplary courage while he was reciting the following:

“I am the son of Abdullah from the Progeny of Yazan. My religion is same as that of Husain and Hasan.

I shall rain blows upon you like the blows of the stalwart from Yemen as I am seeking through it salvation near my Lord.”

He introduced his lineage and native country and informed them that he was following the faith of his master, Husain. Also that he shall sacrifice himself in his path. It was so that he may gain salvation near the Almighty...Like his martyr brothers, he put up a furious fight and continued to battle with daring and a firm determination till he reached martyrdom.**[1] **

The Imam (‘a) Besides the martyrs

The Holy Imam (‘a) stood besides his great martyred companions and glanced at them with his glowing countenance. He saw them bathed in the blood of martyrdom and fragrant with the breeze of divine mercy. And regarding them to be great he lamented in their sorrow:

“Corpses like the corpses of prophets and of the families of the prophets.”[2]

Martyrdom of Suwaid

The last one to achieve martyrdom from the companions of the Holy Imam was the brave warrior, Suwaid bin Amr bin Abi Mata Khathami who fell down wounded in the battlefield. They thought that he was dead so they did not continue to attack him. He fainted due to the pain of his injuries and loss of blood but when he heard those people screaming: “Husain is killed”, he stood up like a wounded lion and without paying any heed to the pain of his injuries he began to search for his sword but he could not find it. However he found a knife and with it he attacked the foes injuring them. They ran away from him bewildered and thinking that the dead companions of Husain were coming back to life to again perform Jihad. But when they realized their mistaken notion they came towards him and conveyed him to martyrdom. Urwah bin Butan Thalabi slew him.

The history of humanity does not remember more devoted and sincere loyalty than this that indeed it is the splendor of the Imam’s camp that till the last moment of their life they remained steadfast in their loyalty to their Imam.

These were some companions of the Imam who put in such great efforts in battle that description and definition fails to describe them because they performed a


[1] Al Futuh 5/194
[2] Abdullah, Maqtal al-Husain Awalim 17/346

Jihad whose like is not found anywhere else in the world. They confronted that huge army and rendered serious losses and hardships to it in spite of their own few numbers and despite suffering from a severe thirst.

That group of warriors of faith fought the battle with hardships and arrived to that terrible whirlpool of that battle and resisted like a man and led the movement of faith. The determination of none of them fell slothful and the spear of none of them softened. All of them were bathed in their blood while they were feeling delighted and proud, and by great loyalties displayed the greatness of Islam as it had bestowed them with revolutionary spirit which enabled them to resist those wild beasts with patience and fortitude whose greed had impelled them to commit the most dreadful carnage of the history of mankind.

Their pure souls ascended to the exalted friend (God) in the best way possible and they sacrificed themselves in the path of Allah. And they followed the way that was most equitable according to the unanimity of all...And the most beautiful praise for them is found in the words of Imam Sadiq (‘a) who said: “May my parents be sacrificed on you. You are pure and pure is the dust where you were buried. By Allah! You have reached the best of stations!”[1]


[1] Biharul Anwar 101/201