On the 1st of Muharram 2025, Shia Muslims began a solemn period of mourning in remembrance of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in Karbala in 680 CE
The Karbala story is a tragic historical event that serves as a symbol of resistance against injustice for millions of people worldwide.
The prelude to Karbala (before 1 Muharram 61 AH)
- The rise of Yazid I: After the death of Caliph Mu’awiyah, his son, Yazid I, took power. However, many prominent figures, including Imam Hussain, refused to pledge allegiance to a ruler they considered corrupt and immoral.
- Invitation from Kufa: Facing Yazid’s rule, the people of Kufa, a city that historically supported the Prophet’s family, sent letters to Imam Hussain. They asked him to come and lead them against the Umayyads.
- Journey to Kufa: In response, Imam Hussain left Mecca with his family and a small group of companions. They intended to travel to Kufa. He was advised against this journey by many who knew of the political instability and danger.
- Betrayal of Kufa: When Yazid learned of Imam Hussain’s plan, he replaced the governor of Kufa and sent forces to intercept him. Muslim ibn Aqeel, Imam Hussain’s cousin and envoy to Kufa, was executed. The people of Kufa abandoned their pledge of support out of fear.
The arrival in Karbala (2–9 Moharram)
- Battle and martyrdom: On the 10th of Muharram, the Day of Ashura, Imam Hussain’s vastly outnumbered companions fought valiantly and were martyred one by one. The atrocities included the killing of Imam Hussain’s six-month-old son, Ali Asghar, who was shot with an arrow as his father pleaded for water.
- The sacrifice of Imam Hussain: After all his companions and family were martyred, Imam Hussain entered the battle. Weakened by thirst, he fought courageously but was eventually struck down and beheaded, with his body trampled by horses.
- Captivity of the family: The surviving women and children of the camp were taken as prisoners and marched from Karbala to Yazid’s capital in Damascus. This journey and the public resistance from figures like Imam Hussain’s sister, Zaynab, further spread the story of the tragedy and solidified its meaning as a symbol of defiance against oppression.
The significance of 1 Muharram 2025
For Muharram 2025 (which began on June 27, 2025), the 1st of Muharram marks the beginning of the traditional 10-day mourning period for Shia Muslims. The story of Karbala is recounted in religious gatherings known as majlis. These gatherings remember the sacrifice of Imam Hussain for justice, truth, and moral integrity.
The Day of Ashura (10 Muharram) and the aftermath
- Interception and encampment: On the 2nd of Muharram 61 AH, Yazid’s army intercepted Imam Hussain’s caravan and forced them to camp in the desolate plain of Karbala.
- The water blockade: On the 7th of Muharram, Yazid’s army cut off the camp’s access to the Euphrates River. This left Imam Hussain, his family (including women and children), and his companions without water for three days.
- Night of Tasu’a: On the 9th of Muharram, negotiations failed, and an attack became imminent. Imam Hussain gave his followers permission to leave under the cover of night, but nearly all chose to stay and stand by him. They spent the night in prayer and preparation.