The Sacred History of Karbala: A Journey Through Time

Introduction

Karbala, located about 100 kilometers southwest of Baghdad, holds a prominent place in Islamic history. This land is where Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his family were martyred by the Umayyad forces on Muharram 10, 61 H (October 10, 680 AD), and where their graves now reside. Known for its historical and spiritual significance, Karbala is considered the second holiest site in Shia Islam, after Najaf, where Imam Ali (A.S.) is believed to be buried. This article delves into the rich history of Karbala, exploring its significance through various religious and historical texts.

The Historical Significance of Karbala

The Land of Sacrifice

Karbala is not just known for the tragic events of Ashura but also for its historical significance, where many prophets are said to have visited and foretold the sacrifice that would occur. Historical texts from various Islamic traditions highlight the importance of Karbala as a land of trials and sacrifices.

References:

• Shia Sources: According to Shia traditions, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) often spoke of Karbala and the martyrdom of his grandson, Imam Hussain (A.S.). In Shia hadith collections like "Bihar al-Anwar," Imam Hussain's martyrdom is frequently referenced as a pivotal moment in Islamic history.
• Sunni Sources: Sunni scholars also acknowledge the sanctity of Karbala. In texts such as "Tarikh al-Tabari," there are references to the foretelling of Imam Hussain's sacrifice and the significance of Karbala.
• Quranic References: While the Quran does not directly mention Karbala, interpretations and exegeses (tafsir) by scholars such as Allama Tabatabai in "Tafsir al-Mizan" emphasize the significance of the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (A.S.) in the context of verses related to martyrdom and struggle.
• Bible: The Bible, in the Old Testament, speaks of sacrifice and trials in various contexts. Although Karbala is not mentioned explicitly, the themes of sacrifice can be related to the events in Karbala (Isaiah 53:7).

Prophets and Their Connection to Karbala

Many prophets are believed to have visited Karbala, each leaving a mark of their presence and prophesying the events that would take place.

References:

• Prophet Adam (A.S.): It is said that Prophet Adam (A.S.) received forgiveness from Allah on the land of Karbala. (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 44)
• Prophet Noah (A.S.): Prophet Noah’s ark is believed to have passed by Karbala during the great flood, where he paid homage to the sacred land. (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 44)
• Prophet Abraham (A.S.): Prophet Abraham (A.S.) is said to have visited Karbala, where he was informed about the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.) by Allah. (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 44)
• Tawrat (Torah): In Jewish texts, themes of sacrifice and struggle are prevalent. Though Karbala is not specifically mentioned, the narrative of trials and faith can be linked to the events that took place there (Genesis 22:1-19).
• Zabur (Psalms): The Zabur, attributed to Prophet David (A.S.), speaks of righteous suffering and divine justice, themes resonant with the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (A.S.) (Psalm 22).
• Injil (Gospel): The Gospel, particularly the New Testament, contains passages that reflect on the nature of sacrifice and martyrdom, paralleling the story of Karbala (Matthew 5:10).

The Arrival and Purchase of Karbala

Imam Hussain (A.S.) embarked on his journey to Karbala in 680 AD, accompanied by his family and loyal companions. Understanding the sanctity of the land, he bought it from the local tribes, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in Islamic history.

References:

• Shia Sources: According to Shia historical accounts, Imam Hussain (A.S.) negotiated with the local Bani Asad tribe to purchase the land where he and his companions would be martyred. (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 45)
• Sunni Sources: Sunni historians like Ibn Kathir also acknowledge the purchase of the land, highlighting Imam Hussain’s awareness of the impending sacrifice. (Al-Bidaya wa'l-Nihaya)
• Non-Muslim Views: Historian Edward Gibbon remarked, “In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Hussain will awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader.” (The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Volume 5)

References:

• Shia Sources: In Shia traditions, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) often spoke of Karbala and the martyrdom of his grandson, Imam Hussain (A.S.). This is documented in Shia hadith collections like "Bihar al-Anwar" .
• Sunni Sources: Sunni scholars also acknowledge the sanctity of Karbala. Historical works such as "Tarikh al-Tabari" refer to the foretelling of Imam Hussain's sacrifice .
• Quranic References: While the Quran does not directly mention Karbala, interpretations and exegeses (tafsir) by scholars such as Allama Tabatabai in "Tafsir al-Mizan" emphasize the significance of Imam Hussain's (A.S.) sacrifice in the context of verses related to martyrdom and struggle .
• Bible: The Old Testament in the Bible speaks of sacrifice and trials, which can be related to the events in Karbala (Isaiah 53:7).
• Historical Texts: Non-Muslim historians, such as Edward Gibbon, also acknowledge the profound impact of Karbala in their works. Gibbon noted, "In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Hussain will awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader" .
• UN Human Rights Charter: Allama Rasheed Turabi has often emphasized that Imam Hussain (A.S.) defended principles that align with what later became the UN Human Rights Charter, centuries ahead of its time.

Origins and Etymology of Karbala

There are several theories about the origin of the name "Karbala." It may derive from the Akkadian word 'karballatu,' meaning a pointed cone, which transformed into 'karbala' in Middle Hebrew and Aramaic. Another theory suggests it comes from the Arabic phrase 'kuwar Babil,' meaning around Babylon, or from the verb 'karbala,' which means feet sinking into soft ground.

Historical Significance Prior to Islam:

• Early Islamic History: After the conquest of Hira, Khalid bin Walid stayed in Karbala with his army in 12 H (634 AD). It is also narrated that Imam Ali (A.S.) stopped in Karbala while returning to Kufa from Anbar or Siffin. The people with him found a well and drank from it, indicating Karbala's existence before Islam .

References:

• Shia Sources: Narratives in Shia texts like "Bihar al-Anwar" mention these historical events .
• Sunni Sources: Historical records in "Al-Bidaya wa'l-Nihaya" by Ibn Kathir provide detailed accounts of these early visits to Karbala .

Imam Hussain's Journey to Karbala

In 680 AD, Imam Hussain (A.S.) embarked on his journey to Karbala with his family and loyal companions. Recognizing the sanctity of the land, he purchased it from the local tribes, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in Islamic history.

References:

• Shia Sources: Shia accounts detail Imam Hussain's (A.S.) negotiations with the local Bani Asad tribe to purchase the land where he and his companions would be martyred (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 45) .
• Sunni Sources: Sunni historians like Ibn Kathir also acknowledge the purchase of the land (Al-Bidaya wa'l-Nihaya) .

The Siege and Dialogues with Umar Ibn Sa'ad

Upon reaching Karbala, Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his followers faced increasing pressure from Yazid's forces. Despite the challenges, Imam Hussain (A.S.) remained steadfast, embodying principles of justice and righteousness.

References:

• Historical Accounts: Imam Hussain (A.S.) engaged in dialogue with Umar Ibn Sa'ad, leading to an initial agreement to lift the siege. However, this was overruled by Shimr Bin Dhil-Jawshan and Governor Ibn Ziyad (Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 45) .
• Primary Sources: These events are documented in Sunni references like "Tarikh al-Tabari" and "Al-Bidaya wa'l-Nihaya" .

Prelude to Ashura: The Night of Devotion

The night before the battle, known as the night of Ashura, was a time of intense prayer and devotion for Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his companions. They knew their fate but chose to spend the night in worship, seeking strength and solace from Allah.

References:

• Shia Sources: Shia texts describe how Imam Hussain (A.S.) spent the night in prayer and urged his companions to leave if they wished to save their lives (Maqtal al-Hussain by Abi Mikhnaf) .
• Sunni Sources: Sunni historians also record this night of devotion (Tarikh al-Tabari) .

Personal Reflections and Cultural Impact

The tragedy of Karbala is deeply personalized in many cultures, commemorated annually during Muharram. This period is marked by mourning and reflection on the sacrifices made.

References:

• Marsiya Poetry: Mir Anees’s Marsiyas evoke the sorrow and heroism of Karbala. These poetic renditions, such as "Ghabraain Geen Zainab" and "Aaakhri Salaam," depict the emotional and physical anguish endured by Imam Hussain's family .
• Majlis and Majaalis: Women's Majaalis, where elegies and historical narratives are recited, emphasize the cultural and emotional attachment to Karbala (Allama Rasheed Turabi’s sermons) .

Conclusion and Next Steps

Karbala’s history is a tapestry woven with the threads of sacrifice, faith, and resilience. The arrival of Imam Hussain (A.S.) marked the beginning of a series of events that would forever change the course of Islamic history. In the next article, we will explore the events of Ashura, the significance of the sacrifices made, and why Shia Muslims mourn during this period.

Additional References

1. Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 44-45
2. Tarikh al-Tabari
3. Al-Bidaya wa'l-Nihaya by Ibn Kathir
4. Maqtal al-Hussain by Abi Mikhnaf
5. The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Volume 5 by Edward Gibbon
6. The Bible (Isaiah 53:7, Genesis 22:1-19, Psalm 22, Matthew 5:10)
7. Quran (various tafsir interpretations)
8. Marsiyas of Mir Anees
9. Sermons by Allama Rasheed Turabi
10. After the Prophet by Lesley Hazleton