LAWRENCE TSURO*
The tenth day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a time of profound grief and remembering for Muslims around the world. This day marks a watershed moment in Islamic history, commemorating the tragedy of Karbala, where Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), the third Shia Imam, and his faithful companions gave their lives in 680 AD. Far from being a footnote in history, this momentous event resonated for centuries, inspiring numerous campaigns for freedom, justice, and human dignity around the world.
The Karbala tragedy's enduring resonance comes from its global appeal to core human principles. It has transcended its religious and historical origins to become a universal symbol of resistance to injustice.
This argues that certain acts of principled disobedience, even if obviously vanquished militarily, can gain a far greater moral and historical success, functioning as an enduring source of inspiration. This profound universality renders Imam Hussain's legacy profoundly relevant to a wide range of causes, as proven by its resonance in circumstances such as standing up to aggression and oppression.
This treasure of inspiration for human rights defenders illuminates the principles embodied by Imam Hussain's stand at Karbala as they continue to serve as a timeless blueprint for leaders facing moral decay, political tyranny, and systemic injustice. Noting Imam Hussain’s sacrifice was not an act of defeat but a profound victory for the true lifeforce of Islam and a catalyst for societal transformation.
History speaks: Imam Hussain's stand for truth
Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) is the third Shia Imam and the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His direct lineage placed him at the center of Islamic leadership and spiritual authority, making his acts and decisions extremely important to the Muslim community.
On the plains of Karbala, in what is now Iraq, the tragic Battle of Karbala took place in 680 AD (61 AH). There, the oppressive Umayyad king Yazid's far more powerful army confronted Imam Hussain, his family, and a small group of seventy-two loyal companions. This conflict was a principled protest against the deep moral and political corruption that had crept into the Islamic caliphate under Yazid's administration, not a quest for material dominance.
Imam Hussain's steadfast stance was a brave response to a perceived existential threat to Islam's fundamental principles. Yazid's administration was defined by "infidelity and apostasy," and its policies demonstrated "no sign of Islamic command." According to historical records, the Umayyad authority wanted to "uproot Islam so that no effect of it remains in the sphere of life". Imam Hussain's key motivations were a "unshakeable devotion to truth and justice" and a brave "defiance of injustice."
He sought to defend the community and ensure Islam's survival, knowing that leadership corruption may lead to the utter demise of a faith and society. His stand, therefore, serves as a powerful historical precedent for leaders who must choose between acquiescence to corrupt power and principled resistance, even when facing overwhelming odds. It highlights that the defense of truth often necessitates radical action when established systems become fundamentally unjust.
The core values of Imam Hussain's movement
Imam Hussain's Karbala movement embodied core human and Islamic values while also developing a complete ethical framework for leadership in the face of persecution. His ultimate sacrifice was explicitly in "defense of Islam" and exhibited a "unwavering commitment to truth and justice." This was a direct challenge to a dictatorship that had abandoned justice in favor of lies, with the goal of restoring the fundamental ideals of fairness and integrity.
The tragedy of Karbala has "inspired innumerable battles for freedom" across ages, embracing not only political freedom from tyranny, but also religious freedom and the intrinsic right to live by one's values without compromise. Imam Hussain stood up for "human dignity," refusing to accept humiliation or servitude, even to the point of death. His revolution essentially "created dignity for human beings" by declaring each individual's intrinsic worth and inviolability in the face of repressive powers.
This history of resistance to injustice, transgression, deviation, and arrogance is particularly vital for communities under attack. Imam Hussain's defiance of Yazid exemplifies "resistance against oppression". The Umayyad monarchs were known for "fraud, deception, injustice, and oppression". His group was motivated by a "spirit of revolution and opposition to oppression and injustice, confrontation with unreasonable demands and fighting corruption".
Imam Hussain's example highlights the moral obligation of resisting forces that attempt to undermine their sovereignty, dignity, and way of life. It emphasizes the concept that standing up to injustice, even when faced with overwhelming odds, is an honorable and important action.
Furthermore, Imam Hussain's movement demonstrated deep sacrifice, perseverance, and persistence. He and his 72 companions were "martyred" for their beliefs, giving the ultimate sacrifice. This significant gesture demonstrated the enormous dedication and sacrifice required to safeguard the truth when all other options have been exhausted.
His "tenacity in the face of adversity" is an important reminder that "even in the most difficult circumstances, it is possible to overcome obstacles and triumph." His "attitude of endurance serves as a light of hope" for others facing difficult challenges.
In situations where communities are constantly under pressure or aggression, the Karbala narrative gives a compelling template for remaining strong, deriving strength from collective resolve, and surviving hardships with unshakable commitment.
Nonetheless, faith is described as crucial to his position, providing "strength, solace, and guidance." The Islamic faith's intrinsic emphasis on justice, equality, and compassion connected strongly with Imam Hussain's acts, forming the moral foundation for his movement.
Faith, for a nation like the Islamic Republic of Iran, which recently defended its values and people, may be a critical source of resilience and unity, offering the moral and spiritual fortitude required to defend their territory, people, and beliefs from assault.
This comprehensive ethical framework indicates that effective and moral leadership in the face of tyranny necessitates a complete commitment to a constellation of interconnected principles, so strengthening his legacy and making it adaptable to varied circumstances.
A beacon for the oppressed: Global inspiration from Karbala
Imam Hussain's defiance at Karbala has served as a powerful "example for oppressed people all across the world". His willingness to stand alone against a tyrannical force, prioritizing principles over personal safety and worldly gain, resonates deeply with those facing systemic injustice. His tenacity in hardship serves as a profound reminder that "even in the most difficult circumstances; it is possible to overcome hurdles and triumph".
The religious and cultural appeal of Imam Hussain's message is powerfully illustrated by global figures who have drawn strength from his narrative. The late former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, explicitly cited Imam Hussain as a source of immense strength.
He stated, "I have spent more than 20 years in prison, then on one night I decided to surrender by signing all the terms and conditions of the government. But suddenly I thought about Imam Hussain and Karbala movement, and Imam Hussain gave me strength to stand for the right of freedom and liberation and I did".
This powerful testimony underscores that the principles of Karbala—truth, justice, resistance, and endurance—are not confined to a specific faith or historical period. They represent universal human aspirations for dignity and freedom.
Reality continuously draws an important parallel between the tragedy of Karbala and Zimbabwe's "difficult path...to become free of economic sanctions". Economic sanctions are described as a "modern form of oppression" that have "stifled economic progress, restricted access to necessary commodities and services, and exacerbated poverty".
The bravery exhibited by Imam Hussain and his adherents is strikingly similar to the sacrifices made by Zimbabwe's liberation heroes. Both narratives demonstrate an "steadfast character of people who put their beliefs ahead of their own interests and are prepared to go through hardships in order to protect their community".
Zimbabweans have shown "incredible tenacity in the face of sanctions," drawing inspiration from Imam Hussain's legacy to "build a successful and independent country" and achieve "economic independence of vision 2030". The Karbala narrative thus provides a powerful framework for understanding and confronting any form of oppression, whether political, economic, or social, making it a truly global beacon.
The moral force of a principled stand, even in apparent defeat, can inspire generations across different cultures and belief systems.
*Lawrence Tsuro is a development practitioner who writes here in his personal capacity.
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