The 10th of Muharram, known as Yawm-e-Ashura, marks one of the most painful and significant days in Islamic history—the martyrdom of Imam Husain (R.A), the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, at Karbala. For Sunni Muslims, this day is not only about grief and sorrow, but also about honouring the legacy of truth, justice, and unwavering faith.
While both Sunni and Shia Muslims deeply mourn the events of Karbala, the Sunni perspective focuses more on the spiritual lessons drawn from the tragedy, the importance of standing against tyranny, and the virtues of patience (sabr) and sacrifice shown by Imam Husain (R.A) and his companions.
Background to the Battle
After the passing of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the leadership of the Muslim Ummah passed through the Khulafa-e-Rashideen—Abu Bakr (R.A), Umar (R.A), Uthman (R.A), and Ali (R.A). Following the assassination of Ali (R.A), his son Imam Hasan (R.A) made peace with Muawiyah (R.A) to prevent further bloodshed, with the understanding that no hereditary claim would be made to the caliphate after Muawiyah’s death.
However, Yazid ibn Muawiyah assumed leadership after his father’s death in 60 AH (680 CE), in what many saw as a political shift from Khilafah to monarchy. Yazid demanded allegiance (bay’ah) from prominent figures, including Imam Husain (R.A), who refused on the grounds of moral and religious integrity. Husain (R.A) could not accept a leader whose lifestyle and policies contradicted Islamic values.
The Journey to Karbala
Upon receiving calls for support from the people of Kufa, Imam Husain (R.A), accompanied by his family and a small group of companions, travelled from Makkah toward Iraq. However, upon reaching Karbala, they were intercepted by Yazid’s army under the command of Umar ibn Sa’d.
They were surrounded and denied water for days under the scorching heat of the desert. Despite knowing the dangers, Imam Husain (R.A) refused to submit to tyranny and made it clear that he sought only truth and justice, not power.
10th Muharram – The Day of Ashura
On Ashura, 10th Muharram 61 AH (10 October 680 CE), the battle reached its devastating climax. Imam Husain (R.A) and his 72 companions were vastly outnumbered. One by one, his family members and companions—Ali Akbar (R.A), Qasim (R.A), Abbas (R.A), and others—fell in battle.
Despite hunger, thirst, and emotional grief, Imam Husain (R.A) remained firm, offering salah, speaking words of wisdom, and calling for peace and reform. Eventually, he too was martyred in a brutal and heartbreaking manner.
His noble head was severed, and the surviving women and children of the Ahl al-Bayt were taken captive—marking a moment of deep sorrow for the entire Ummah.
Sunni Perspective on Karbala
Sunni scholars throughout history have condemned the tragedy of Karbala and expressed sorrow and love for Imam Husain (R.A). However, they discourage acts of self-harm or attributing blame to the Sahaba (R.A) as some sectarian narratives may do.
Key Sunni beliefs include:
- Imam Husain (R.A) is a Shaheed and leader of the youth of Paradise, as stated in authentic hadith.
- The tragedy of Karbala is a lesson in standing against falsehood, even in the face of certain death.
- Ashura is observed through fasting, dua, reflection, and remembering the sacrifices of the righteous.
- The Prophet ﷺ himself used to fast on 10th Muharram, and advised his followers to also fast on either the 9th or 11th along with it to distinguish from Jewish practices.
Lessons from Karbala
- Standing for Truth: Imam Husain (R.A) refused to give allegiance to an unjust ruler. His stance reminds us to never remain silent in the face of oppression.
- Faith Over Fear: Despite knowing the risks, he chose the path of sacrifice for the sake of preserving the Deen.
- Value of Family and Loyalty: Karbala also shows the strength and bravery of the family of the Prophet ﷺ—especially the women who showed resilience even in captivity.
- Patience (Sabr): Imam Husain (R.A) exemplified the highest level of sabr, a core teaching in Sunni Islam.
Commemorating Ashura in Sunni Islam
In the Sunni tradition, Ashura is marked with:
- Fasting on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) of Muharram.
- Charity and feeding the poor.
- Reciting Quran and making du’a.
- Reflecting on the lives of the Prophets and martyrs.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also associated Ashura with historical events, such as the victory of Prophet Musa (A.S) over Pharaoh, which further deepens its spiritual value.
Conclusion
The Tragedy of Karbala is a unifying pain for the Muslim Ummah, regardless of sect or school of thought. For Sunnis, Imam Husain (R.A) remains a symbol of truth, courage, and sacrifice, whose martyrdom continues to inspire generations.
His legacy is not just a part of history—it is a living message: never trade truth for power, never surrender to injustice, and always stand firm in faith.
“The best of people are those who stand for justice, even if they stand alone.” – A lesson from Karbala
( Columnist : Sheikh Mohammad Isa )
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