Imam Hussain’s Legacy Is An Inspiring Example In Oppressive Times

The battle of Karbala remains one of the most astounding events in the history of mankind. Imam Hussain’s martyrdom, the events leading up to it, and its aftermath, not only evoke deepest human emotions but also continue to inspire millions as they leave behind a legacy, most fitting in times of oppression.

A man of grace and grit, Imam Hussain took on a totalitarian regime single-handedly, declaiming against social and political injustice and gross abuse of power.

Ethics above everything

Imam Hussain did not approve of Yazid’s appointment as the caliph of Muslims and refused to pledge allegiance to him as he believed that he was an illegitimate ruler, who came into power disbanding the very foundations of the institution of Caliphate – a wider consultation in the community and the methodology of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

He was given a choice to either accept Yazid’s caliphate or face death. Accepting Yazid’s caliphate would mean that he would get to live a luxurious life, but he chose to stand up for what he believed in. He stood tall against the mightiest walls of oppression, exuding complete faith in his ethics and principles. When he addressed his followers before the battle, the conviction in his tone was invincible. He refused to be cowered, even at the cost of his family and his own life.

Numbers don’t matter

“Truth versus falsehood” struggle is not measured in mass appeal. Imam Hussain clearly knew what’s coming on his way, but that didn’t deter him from the path he chose. Yazid’s army of thousands stood frozen against a tiny group of 71 faithful.

At the end of the battle, Yazid’s army might have been seemingly victorious, but it was Imam Hussain and his followers who established themselves as a paradigm and a model with their courage to stand for truth, steadfastness and supreme spirit of sacrifice.

Women in the struggle

Women played an important role in Imam Hussain’s struggle. All the women of his family accompanied him on his journey to Kufa and stood by him, all the while, as moral support. His sister Zainab played a key role in safeguarding the life of her nephew, Ali ibn Hussain.

Zainab’s speech in the court of Yazid after being held captive post the battle, condemning his oppression has gone down in history as not just being heroic but also as an outstanding example of a woman’s might in a court full of men. She made the most of it to expose the unwholesome face of his regime and to spread Imam Hussain’s message.