Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) and the Infallible Imams (a.s.)

Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) and the Infallible Imams (a.s.)

There can be little debate that the catastrophe that engulfed the Islamic nation on the demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was of a staggering magnitude. For the beloved progeny – Ahle Bait (a.s.) of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) the sorrow was two-fold. On one hand, they were permanently separated from the beloved Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and on the other hand, this proved to be the trigger for the deluge of tragedies and oppressions that befell them. Hazrat Ali’s (a.s.) right to caliphate and successorship to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was usurped in a most scheming manner. Few could have imagined that there would come a day when Ali (a.s.) – the victor of Khaiber and Khandaq would be dragged from his house for allegiance. Janabe Fatima Zahra (s.a.), the beloved daughter of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), had to appeal to the caliph of the nation, in the mosque of her own father, to demand her inheritance and financial dues. Her appeals fell on deaf ears and instead she was recompensed with oppression that first took the life of her unborn son and ultimately her own.

 

The demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and his dearest daughter in a span of a few months left an indelible mark on Hazrat Ali’s (a.s.) persona. His grief was uncontrollable and his sorrow was beyond description. Allah, the Almighty, alleviated his mourning and distress through a newborn son. This son had the desired effect on all the grieving members of Hazrat Ali’s (a.s.) household. Imam Hasan (a.s.) rejoiced because his arms were strengthened through the infant. Imam Husain (a.s.) saw in him his most trusted aide and standard-bearer. Janabe Zainab (a.s.) got a younger brother who would protect her. Hazrat Ali (a.s.) held the newborn close to himself and saw in him the nobility of martyrdom and christened him – Abbas, which means a lion.��

 

Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) personality

Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) is one individual whose advent was awaited with great fervor and anticipation. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) prophesied his unparalleled bravery. Hazrat Ali (a.s.), a man of few wants and needs, nonetheless desired him. Janabe Zahra (s.a.) referred to him as her own son. Imam Hasan (a.s.) introduced him as his helper and supporter. Imam Husain (a.s.) proclaimed about him, ‘may my life be sacrificed upon you’. And once Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was born the Ahle Bait (a.s.) took great pride in him and his unique traits.

 

Apart from the five infallibles (a.s.) from the ‘Incident of the Cloak’, even the Imams (a.s.) spoke of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) in a most venerating manner. Imam Zainul Abedeen (a.s.) gave testimony to his elevated status. Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.) acquainted him as �Abdus Saleh and one with vision and foresight and Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) has sent his salutations upon him.

 

Hazrat Ali’s (a.s.) desire

Hazrat Ali (a.s.) was well-aware that there would come a distressing time upon his younger son – Imam Husain (a.s.) when the trials and tribulations would engulf him and he would be all alone without a helper and supporter. What was particularly painful for Hazrat Ali (a.s.) was his own absence at that delicate moment in history when his son would need him the most. Hazrat Ali (a.s.) was seized with a desire to raise a son who would represent him at that moment of Imam Husain’s (a.s.) anguish. It was with this objective that Hazrat Ali (a.s.) requested his brother – Aqeel:

‘Search for a lady from the Arab tribes with a pedigree of brave warriors so that I may marry her. She will beget a brave son who will be a helper for my son – Husain in Karbala.’

(Tanqeehul Maqaal Chapter of Abbas pg. 28, Asraarush Shahaadat, pg 319, Umdatul Mataalib, pg. 352)

 

Janabe Aqeel’s quest led him to the personality of Janabe Fatima Kelabiyya (r.a.) who Hazrat Ali (a.s.) finally married. This union resulted in the birth of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.), who gained the titled.

 

Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) was blessed with two sons who had no equal in the heavens and the earth. For him to desire another son like Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) tells us something about the latter’s glorious personality. For not only was Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) just his son, but he was his emissary in the battle of Karbala, one of Islam’s greatest struggle against falsehood and tyranny. Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was to be the defendant of Imam Husain’s (a.s.) right, which is why Hazrat Ali (a.s.) put everyone under the care of his eldest son and successor – Imam Hasan (a.s.); but when it came to Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) he directed him under the supervision of Imam Husain (a.s.).

 

Imam Husain (a.s.) and Hazrat Abbas (a.s.)

Imam Husain (a.s.) tended the gift of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) entrusted to him by his father with great care. He always kept Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) with himself and did not like being separated from him. When on 9th Muharram 61 AH at Karbala, Umar-e-Saad’s army ventured towards Imam Husain’s (a.s.) tent, he requested Hazrat Abbas (a.s.):

‘May my life be sacrificed for you, O my brother, go and ask them the purpose of their visit.’

(Tarikh-e-Tabari vol. 6, pg. 237)

 

Indeed, this statement highlights the affection that Imam (a.s.) had for Hazrat Abbas (a.s.). An Imam of the time uttering a statement of such gravity – ‘may my life be sacrificed upon you’ for someone highlights the latter’s position and status. It is not merely one brother’s sentiment for his sibling. In any case, the Imam does not make a proclamation out of mere sentiment; his love and hatred are purely for the sake of Allah, not for his own self. This statement underlines the importance of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) in the eyes of Allah and Imam Husain (a.s.).��

 

On the Day of Aashoora, Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was given Imam’s (a.s.) consent to fight the enemies after much deliberation. And when after some time, Imam (a.s.) heard Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) plea for help, he clutched his back and cried – ‘O my brother, with this (tragedy) my back is now broken.’ It is for this reason we find Imam Husain (a.s.) calling out to Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) for help whenever his body was struck by the enemy.

(Maqtal-e-Abi Mikhnaf pg. 377)

 

Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) in Ziarat-e-Nahiyah

We find Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.) reminiscing about Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) indomitable bravery in Ziarat-e-Nahiyah,

‘Peace be upon Abul Fazlil Abbas, the son of Ameerul Momineen (a.s.), who sacrificed his life for his brother. He protected him through his soul and in his struggle to fetch water, lost his arms. May Allah curse his killers – Yazid b. Riqaad Al-Haibi and Hakeem b. Tufail Al-Mataaiee.’�

 

Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) on his uncle Abbas (a.s.)

In Umdatul Mataalib, the great scholar – Abu Nasr Bukhaari records Imam Jafar Sadiq’s (a.s.) narration:

‘Our uncle Abbas Ibne Ameeril Momineen (a.s.) had sharp foresight and firm faith. He fought alongside Husain (a.s.) and gave ample evidence of his bravery and courage until he was martyred.’

(Umdatul Mataalib pg. 323, Maqatilut Taalibeen)

 

Allamah Kinturi writes that �Baseerat� means in-depth understanding of and reflection on religious beliefs. �Na�fiz� means to distinguish clearly between truth and falsehood. �Na�fizul Baseerat� means Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) had amazing vision and foresight about religious beliefs and could clearly discern between truth and falsehood. He had scaled all the levels of faith and this is what Imam Sadiq (a.s.) is referring to in the above tradition.

(Miatain fi Maqtalil Husain, Pg. 444)

 

Then Allamah elaborates that Imam’s (a.s.) at tribute �Na�fizul Baseerat� underscores the reality that Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was at an elevated stage of recognition and action.

�(Miatain fi Maqtalil Husain, Pg. 463).

 

It was this recognition with which Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was stationed at a lofty level of faith and certainty and achieved such proximity with Imam Husain (a.s.), so much so that ultimately he submitted his life in the obedience of his master culminating in his martyrdom.

 

The Virtuous (Al-Abd Al Saleh)

In the special Ziarat of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) narrated on the authority of Abi Hamza-e-Somali from Imam Sadiq (a.s.), the latter declares,

‘Salutations upon you O virtuous worshipper who was obedient to Allah, His Messenger, Ameerul Momineen, Hasan and Husain (peace be upon all of them)’�

 

In Arabic literature, �Aabid� means a worshipper or a sincere worshipper.

 

‘The worshipper who has devoted his entire life for the service of his master and has never separated from him.’

(Al-Munjid, pg. 316)

 

Over here �Abd� means Allah’s worshipper. At one level we are all Allah’s worshippers because Allah has created man to worship Him.

(Surah Zaariyaat: 56)

 

However, there are some worshippers who have excelled in worship so much so that Allah is proud of their worship and considers them as His worshippers. Allah has mentioned many Prophets by name in the Quran. However, not all of them are referred to as �Abd�. There are only a few Prophets referred to as �Abd� in the Quran by Allah – Hazrat Nuh (a.s.) in Surah Israa: Verse: 3, Hazrat Dawood (a.s.) in Surah Swaad: Verse: 17, Hazrat Zakariyya (a.s.) in Surah Maryam: Verse: 2, Hazrat Isa (a.s.) in Surah Nisa: Verse: 20, Hazrat Ayyub (a.s.) in Surah Swaad: Verse: 41 and our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) in Surah Israa: Verse: 1 for whom in particular, this word has been used on more than one occasion.���

 

The position of servitude (being a slave or worshipper of Allah) is a status that is much sought after and only a handful of Allah’s most beloved creatures can attain it. One day Hazrat Jibraeel (a.s.) descended on the earth to convey the divine message to the Prophet, he informed, ‘Allah has conveyed His greetings and salutations to you. He has given you a choice, either you can choose to be His slave or you can be the king of the world.’ Expectedly the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) selected the position of servitude and relinquished the right to rule over the world. That is why in every obligatory and recommended prayers, we first give testimony to the Prophet being Allah’s slave and then testify to his prophethood.

 

On many an occasion Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) has expressed his satisfaction and pleasure at being Allah’s slave.

 

Indeed Hazrat Ali (a.s.) was granted the good fortune of serving Allah and His Messenger (s.a.w.a.). According to Imam Sadiq’s (a.s.) tradition Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) was granted the opportunity (taufeeq) of serving the five immaculate ones of ‘The Cloak’ in addition to serving Allah. This shows the status of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) in the eyes of Allah, His Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and the infallibles (a.s.).

 

Salutations recited just before the conclusion of namaz is an important pillar of namaz. The worshipper recites three salutations at the end. Of these salutations, the second and the third are imperative and omitting either or both will make the prayers void.

In the first salutation we recite:

‘Salutations upon us and Allah’s virtuous slaves.’

 

Over here we recite �Allah�s virtuous slaves� which is the plural of� �Allah�s virtuous slave�. Now if we take the aforementioned words of the Ziarat and weigh it alongside the salutations in namaz, we can appreciate that Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) is among those included within the ambit of �Allah�s virtuous slave� in prayers. If one does not recite this salutation and declines from paying tributes to the �Allah�s virtuous slave�, his prayers will not be worthy of acceptance in the divine court.

 

The Guardian of Islam

In the salutation for the entry in the shrine of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.), Imam Sadiq (a.s.) recites

‘I bear witness and take Allah as a witness that you tread on the path of warriors of the Battle of Badr.’

 

As is well known, the Battle of Badr was the premier battle of Islam fought under the direct leadership of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Then, Islam was only finding its feet and was slowly coming into its own. A defeat at that stage with the martyrdom of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) would have obliterated Islam and the divine message along with it. Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) and Islam would have been nothing but obscure specks in the pages of history.

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was not prepared for the battle. However, the infidels of Mecca had intensified their efforts against the Muslims and matters reached a head when battle was the only way out. Divine decree commanded as much and the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) began mobilizing men and weapons for Islam’s first battle. The infidels, numbering over a thousand, also prepared themselves for battle and came out armed with the best of weapons and mounts. They had all the means necessary for a resounding victory. The Muslim army on the other hand were puny in size – a little over 300, which was less than 1/3rd the size of the infidels. They had a mere two horses, one was with Murtadd Ibne Abi Murtadd and the other with Miqdad, and only seven camels. Despite their poor numbers and lack of resources, their enthusiasm and spirit of faith was at a high. They entered the battlefield with a clear objective to protect Islam with their lives. Quran says that on that day, Allah helped them with 3,000 angels.

 

A fierce battle waged between the unequal parties. The Muslims with their small numbers but fierce loyalty and strong faith overcame the more powerful infidels. Islam got a new lease of life and Muslims got strengthened with this victory.

 

The situation in 60 AH was similar to the pre-Badr days. In fact, if anything, it was even more dismal. Islamic laws were given mere lip service; they did not exist in the hearts of the Muslims. Slow by but steadily, the soul of Islam was being strangulated. The line between truth and falsehood had vanished and Muslims were no longer discerning between the two. Conditions conspired to propel the successor and grandson of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), to rise against the polytheistic and hypocritical forces of society. The groundwork for battle was laid down and both parties were prepared for it. Imam Husain (a.s.) arrived at Karbala with a small band of family members, companions and loyalists. The situation resembled closely that of Badr. On one side, there was a large army of rabid warriors armed to the teeth and on the other side, there was a small group of devout Muslims, interested only in protecting the grandson of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and through it, Islam. Like Badr, this was a battle between the pure tree and the accursed tree. Like the Muslim army in Badr, Imam Husain’s (a.s.) army was small in number, but there was no dearth of certainty and self-sacrifice to protect Islam. Only difference was unlike in Badr, Imam Husain’s (a.s.) army did not accept the help of angels to fight the enemy. In Badr, the enemy was vanquished to save Islam; in Karbala, the Muslims offered their souls in a supreme sacrifice. This resulted in Islam getting lease of life till the Day of Judgment.

 

The credit of marshalling this small army to an unqualified, moral victory over the enemies goes to the standard bearer of the army. Maybe that is why Imam Sadiq (a.s.) reminisces about Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) supreme sacrifice in his salutation at the threshold of his shrine at Karbala

�Surely you walked on what the people of Badr walked�

 

Obedience of the Imam of the era

Imam Sadiq (a.s.) continues further in this Ziarat,

Then may Allah reward you with the most elect reward, the most numerous reward, the most abundant reward, the most faithful reward, that He has given to one who was loyal in his allegiance, responded to his call and obeyed the master of his affair.’

Undoubtedly, Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) till the end of his life served and submitted to the wishes of his Master – Sayyedush Shohada (a.s.). He endeavoured to fulfill the smallest desire of Imam Husain (a.s.) with all eagerness and promptness. For instance, one day in the mosque, Imam Husain (a.s.) expressed his desire for water. Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) rushed to get the water because he did not like his Master’s wish to remain unfulfilled even for a moment. (Chehl Majlis pg. 282) Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) promptness in fulfilling Imam’s (a.s.) wish to the extent of a glass of water underlines that he did not like anyone to supersede him in answering to Imam’s (a.s.) call. It is famous that Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) used to trace Imam’s (a.s.) footsteps and apply the dust of his feet to his eyes as a measure of his love and submission to the Imam.

(Zikrul Abbas pg. 24).

 

This is the level of obedience, compliance and recognition that Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) had for Imam Husain (a.s.) and carried with him to Karbala. Over there he attended to Imam (a.s.) as a slave. And more importantly, experienced great satisfaction and pride in fulfilling his role as a slave and helper of Imam (a.s.). At a time in Karbala when his own children were grappling with intense thirst, hunger and searing heat, he submitted to the wishes of his master – Imam Husain (a.s.) without sparing a thought for his own condition and that of his family.

 

Normally, a brave man does not easily accept circumstances that are incompatible with his nature and mental makeup. But Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) reconciled himself to the difficulties of Karbala. Despite his courage and valor, to witness the painful and miserable condition of Imam Husain (a.s.) and his family, was in itself an achievement for him. Else in Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) presence, it was not possible for anyone to get even a mile within Imam Husain (a.s.) and his family, let alone harass them and ultimately martyr Imam Husain (a.s.). For Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) to witness this as a mute spectator was in many ways more difficult than sacrificing both his arms and his life in the way of Islam. This was because he was capable of warding off the difficulties and tribulations from Imam Husain (a.s.) and his family, but circumstances compelled him to adopt a stance incompatible to his natural disposition.

 

In line with the divine command and the explicit instructions of his Master – Imam Husain (a.s.), Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) chose to embrace martyrdom rather than take the enemy to task in a fitting manner, which was what he wished to do. To act against his own temperament was the most striking trait of Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) personality in Karbala and earned him the reputation of being the most fierce and self-sacrificing warrior in Karbala, reserving for himself a special niche among the companions of Imam Husain (a.s.). That is why Imam Zainul Abedeen (a.s.) informs,

 

‘May Allah have mercy on my uncle – Abbas b. Ali (a.s.). He fought valiantly and ransomed himself upon his brother until both his arms were severed. Then Allah granted him wings in place of his arms due to his love for us (Ahle Bait). He now soars with his wings along with the angels in Paradise just like Jafar b. Abi Talib (his own uncle). Surely Abbas (a.s.) is placed at such an elevated rank and position in front of Allah, the Almighty, that all the martyrs shall envy him on the Day of Judgment.

�(Khesaal, vol. 1, pg. 36)

 

Hazrat Abbas’ (a.s.) sacrifice is an intercession for the nation

Aga Darbandi writes, ‘When the Day of Judgement shall dawn, the people shall be gathered in a state of intense anxiety and apprehension. Under these circumstances, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) will request Hazrat Ali (a.s.) to ask Janabe Zahra (s.a.) what she had in store to rescue the nation from chastisement. Janabe Zahra (s.a.) will say,

‘The severed hands of Abbas are sufficient for salvaging the nation.’

(Asraarush Shahadat pg. 325, Jawaherul Ayqaan pg. 194, Qamare Bani Hashim pg. 51)

 

In this brief statement Janabe Zahra highlights the eminent rank of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) near Allah, which shall result in the intercession of the Islamic nation as a result of his supreme sacrifice, the proof of which are his severed hands.

 

Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) served the successor of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) till the last breath of his life under the most trying circumstances. Near his Lord he was a virtuous slave and near the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) he was a submissive and obedient Muslim. He submitted completely to the wishes of the Imam of his era and eventually sacrificed his life to safeguard the Imam and thus, earned the latter’s satisfaction and approval. Therefore we find the infallibles (a.s.) speaking of Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) with such high regard and respect. As devotees of this personality and his ardent lovers, we must strive to emulate the actions of our Master – Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) by supporting the Imam of our era till the dying moments of our lives.

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abbas alamdar « bollywoods most wanted photographerno1

abbas alamdar « bollywoods most wanted photographerno1

NAUHA Shahaadat’e Hazrat Abbas (AS)

NAUHA Shahaadat’e Hazrat Abbas (AS) 

Syed Wirasat Ali Saheb Fikr* Marhoom

yeh boale Hazrate Abbas aake Sarwar se
ke sabr ho nahiN sakta hai ab iss ahqar se

haiN bachche tashna dahaani se jaan balab Maula
sadaae al’atash aati hai, khaimon ke dAr se

jo izne jUng nahiN, laane deejiye paani
ke meiri pyaari Sakeena na aab ko tarse

yeh sunke Hazrate Shappeer ne jhukaaya sAr
samajh li bhaai ki marzi, sukoote Sarwar se

utha ke mashko alam, aur aur leike eik naizah
chala dileir raza paate hi baraadar se

bhaga ke fauje sitam, aur bhar ke naher se mashk
suey khayaam phire laRte fauje akfar se

thi mashk doash par aur dast’e raast meiN naizah
jo ek laeen ne kiya usspa waar khanjar se

sambhaala mashko alam baaeiN haath se leikin
tamaam fauj ki thi jUng ek dilaawar se

bil_aakhir usspa bhi talwaar ek shaqi ki paRi
lahoo ka bah gaya darya taney mutaahar se

magar thi koshishe Abbaas, paani bAch jaaey
ke surkhuroo hooN pilakar maiN binte Sarwar se

dabaa ke daaNtoN meiN tasma, baRhe thEy aap abhi
ke aa ke teer paRa ladhkare sitamgar se

idhar tO mashk chidi, dhaar nikli paani ki
ek aah sard udhar nikli qalbe muztar se

kuch aur aage baRhe thEy, ke sAr pa gurz paRa
khitaab karke kaha tab jari ne Sarwar se

ke jaan apni fida ki ghulaam ne Maula
dua hai seir hooN ab deed’e rooe anwar se

sada yeh sUnke, kamar thaam ke chale Hazrat
yeh kahte jaate thEy ro ro ke Shaah, Akbar se

kidhar se aai nida, jald le chalo beita
ke marte waqt galey mil looN, maiN baraadar se

gharaz ke pahoNche tO ghaltaaN thEy khoon meiN Abbas
na deikhi jaati thi haalat jari ki Sarwar se

utha ke sAr rakha zaanu pa, aur roake kaha
agar ho koi tamanna, kaho baraadar se

kahaa yeh Hazrat’e Abbas ne ke aey aaqa
tha dil meiN shauq’e ziyaarat, magar muqaddar se

ek aankh teer se zakhmi hai, aur doosri par
jama hai khoon nikalkar, shigaafta sAr se

aba ka daaman utha kar woh khooN ShAh’e deen ne
chuRaaya dasht meiN ro ro ke dast’e athar se

rukh’e Hussain ko hasrat se deikhkar ek baar
qareeb apne bulaakar kaha yeh Akbar se

kujhe yaqeeN hai pas’e qatl, fauj’e Koofa o Shaam
kareiNgi be_adabi jism’e Shaahe safdar se

sipurd karke meri laash, ibne Saad ko tum
meri taraf se yeh kah deina, baaniye shAr se

eiwaz Hussain ke paamaal kar de laash meri
ke roaz’e hashr khijaalat na ho Payamber se

khitaab ShAh se kiya phir, ke meire laashe ko
huzoor uthaaeiN na lillaah iss jagah pAr se

kiya tha waada Sakeena se, paani laane ka
hooN sharmsaar maiN Aaqa ki pyaari dukhtar se

yeh kahte kahte sidhaare suey jinaaN Abbas
Hussain roaey lipat kAr tan’e baraadar se

dua karo bAs ab aey Fikr* tUm ke ya Abbas
Qareeb qabr miley rauzaey munawwar se

(Mirza Jamal)

Abbas Alamdaar

The shifting sand dunes of Karbala were smeared with blood. Near one of wash dunes, on the bank of Alkoma, lay the prostrate figure of a youth with blood gushing out from innumerable wounds. The crimson life-tide was ebbing fast. Even so, it seemed as if he was anxiously expecting somebody to come to him, to be near him before he breathed his last. Through his starched throat he was feebly calling somebody.
Yes, Abbas was anxiously expecting his master to come to him before he parted with his life, as he had come to the side of all his devoted friends who had laid down their dear lives for him and in espousing his cause.

It is said that before a man’s death al the past event of his life pass before his mind’s eye in a flash-back. In his last moments Abbas was experiencing this. He was seeing himself as a child in Medina following Husain with a devotion which was considered unique even for a brother.

He was seeing the events of that hot and sultry day in Kufa when his illustrious father Ali was addressing a congregation in the mosque and he, as a child, with his characteristic devotion, was looking at the face of his beloved brother watching him intently so that he could attend to his wishes on an instant command. Seeing from the parched lips of Husain that he was feeling extremely thirsty, how he had darted out from the mosque and returned with a tumbler full of cool, refreshing water and in the hurry to carry the water as quickly as possible to quench the consuming thirst of his dearest brother, how he had spilled water on his own clothes. He was recalling how this incident had made his illustrious father stop in the midst of his speech, with tears rolling down his cheeks at the sight of his young son all wet with water. He was remembering his father’s reply to the queries from his faithful followers as to what had brought tears in his eyes, that Abbas who had wetted his body with water in the process of quenching Husain’s thirst would in the not too distant future wet his body with his own blood in attempting to quench the thirst of his young children. He was vividly seeing the scene on the 21st Ramazan, way back in 40 Hijra, when his father mortally wounded, was lying on his death-bed and entrusting his children and dependents to the care of the his eldest brother, Hasan – all except him. Seeing that his father had commended all but him to the care of Hasan – how he, a child of 12, had burst out into uncontrollable tears. His father, on hearing him sobbing, had called him to his side and given his hand in Husain’s hand with the words:
“Husain, this child I am entrusting to you. He will represent me on the day of your supreme sacrifice and lay down his life in defending you and your dear ones, much as I would have done if alive on that day.”

How his father had turned to him and affectionately told him:
“Abbas, my child, I know your unbounded love for Husain.
Though you are too young to be told about it, when that day dawns, consider no sacrifice too great for Husain and his children.”

He saw before his mind’s eye that parting with his aged mother Fatima in Medina. How she had affectionately embraced him and reminded him of the dying desire of his father to lay down his life in the defense of Husain and his dear ones.
A faint smile of satisfaction flickered for a brief moment on his parched lips a smile of satisfaction that he had fulfilled his father’s wish; that he had performed his duty for which he was brought up. It just flitted for a moment and vanished as other scenes came before his mind’s eye. He was re-living the events of the night before. He was seeing Shimr stealthily coming to him; and talking to him about his ties of relationship; about the protection he had been promised for Abbas by the Commander of Yazid’s forces, only if he would leave Husain and go over to Yazid’s camp; about the promises of riches and rewards that he would get; how he had spurned the suggestion of Shimr with the utmost disdain to the chagrin of that servile minion who had sold his soul for a mess of pottage. How he had scared away that coward by his scathing rage saying:
“You worshipper of Mammon, do not think that Abbas will be lured by your tempting offer of power and pelf. If I die in fending my master, Husain, I shall consider myself the luckiest person. O coward, remember that valiants die but once. Nobody is born to live eternally. By betraying my master, you have betrayed the Prophet, whose religion you profess to follow. On the Day of Judgement you will be doomed to eternal perdition. I am ashamed to own any relationship with you. Had it not been for the fact that you have come here unarmed, I would have given you the chastisement you deserve for your impudence in asking me to become a turncoat.”

How that wretch had scampered from there seeing him roaring like an enraged lion. The thought of that unpleasant interlude contracted his brows. Or was it the excruciating pain he was suffering on account of the deep gashes he had all over his body?

Yet another scene passed before Abbas’s eyes – Sakina leading 42 children, each with a dry water-bag. The children were shouting as if in chorus
Thirst, consuming thirst, is killing us.
Sakina coming to him and putting her dry water-bag at his feet and saying to him:
“O uncle, I know you will do something to get water for us. Even if you can bring one bag full of water, we can wet our parched throats.”
He could see that thirst, aggravated by the scorching heat of the desert, was squeezing their young lives out of them. The sight of these youngsters had moved him more than any other soul-stirring events of that faithful day. How he had picked up the water-bag with assurance to Sakina that he would go and bring water – God Willing.

How he had taken Husain’s permission and marched out of the camp with a sword in one hand, the flag in the other, and the bag on his shoulder, with the children following him in a group up to the outer perimeter of the camp. How Husain had repeatedly requested him to avoid fighting as much as possible and confine himself to the task of bringing water!
His thoughts switched over to the events that had preceded his fall from the horse. With the object of procuring water for his dear little Sakina, he had charged on the enemy who held the river banks. He had run through the enemy ranks like a knife through butter. Again this surging onslaught the cowards could not stand and had run helter-skelter shouting for protection. For a moment it seemed as if Ali, the Lion of God, had descended from heaven. In no time Abbas was near the rivulet. He had jumped down from the horse and bent to fill the water-bag. When it was filled to the brim, he had taken some water in his cupped hand to drink and satisfy his killing thirst. But, on second thoughts, he had thrown the water away. How could he drink water when Sakina and the children were still withering without it?
How could he be so callous as to forget that his master Husain had not had a drop of water since the last three days. He had turned to his horse which had been let loose so that it could satisfy its thirst.

The animal had been intently looking at its master as if to say:
I too am aware that, so long as our master and his children remain without water, our thirst cannot be quenched.
With the water-bag filled he had jumped into the saddle with one thought uppermost in his mind, to get the water to the anxiously waiting children as quickly as possible. Seeing him galloping towards the camp of Husain, the enemy had turned. Somebody had shouted from the enemy ranks that if Husain and his people got water, it would be difficult to fight them on the battlefield. Though it was an uneven fight, he fought them with valour which was so characteristic of his fathers Though he was thirsty and hungry, he charged on them and scattered them. The mercenaries of Yazid were running like lambs in a fold when charged by a lion. Seeing that a frontal assault on a man so brave was not possible, they had resorted to a barrage of arrows. When arrows were coming form all sides, Abbas had only one thought in his mind, how to protect the water-bag than his life. Seeing that Abbas was preoccupied with this thought, one treacherous foe, hiding behind a sand-dune, had rushed out and dealt a blow on his right hand and cut it off. In a flash Abbas had transferred his sword to his left hand and the standard he was bearing he had hugged to his chest. Now that the Lion of Ali was crippled, the foes had found courage to surround him. A blow from an enemy’s sword severed his left arm. The odds were now mounting against him. He held the bag with his teeth and protected the flag with his chest pressed on the horse’s back. Now the paramount thought in his mind was to reach the camp somehow or the other. A silent prayer had escaped his lips:
Merciful Allah, spare me long enough to fulfill my mission.

But that was not to be. An arrow had pierced the water-bag and water had started gushing out of it. Was it water that was flowing out of that bag or the hopes of Abbas? All his efforts had been in vain.
After all Sakina’s thirst would remain unsatisfied and all her hopes would be frustrated. The enemies who had made bold to surround him, now seeing his helpless condition, were now gathering thick round him.
One of them came near him and struck mortal blow with an iron mace. He reeled over and fell from the horse.
He tossed on the burning sand with excruciating pain. He felt that life was fast ebbing out but his wish to see his master had remained unfulfilled. With one last effort, with all the strength that was left
in him, he shouted:
O my master, do come to me before I die.
As it in answer to his prayers he felt some footsteps near him, Yes, his instinct told him that it was his lord. His one eye had been blinded by an arrow and the other filled with blood and so he could not see. But he felt his master kneeling down beside him, lifting his head and taking it into his lap. Not a word was said for a few seconds because both were choked with emotion. At last he heard Husain’s voice, a half-sob, half-muffled cry:
Abbas, my brother, what have they done to you?
If Abbas could see, would he have recognized his master? With back bent and beard turned white and hoary, on hearing the parting cry of his beloved brother, Husain’s plight was such that nobody could have recognized him – such was his transformation. Abbas was now feeling the loving touch of his master’s hand. With effort he muttered:
You have come at last, my Master. I thought I was not destined to have a last farewell with you but, thank God, you are here.
With these words he put his head on the sand. Tenderly Husain lifted his head and again put it on his lap, inquiring why he had removed it from there.
My Master, replied Abbas, the thought that when you will be breathing your last, nobody will be there to put your head in a lap and to comfort you, makes me feel that it would be better if my head lies on the sand when I die, just as yours would be. Besides, I am your slave and you are my master. It is too much for me to put my head on your lap.
Husain burst into uncontrollable tears. The sight of his brother, whose name was to become a byword for devotion and unflinching faithfulness, laying down his dear life in his arms, was heart-rending.
Abbas was heard to whisper softly:

“My master, I have some last wishes to express. When I was born, I had my first look at your face and it is my last desire that when I die, my gaze may be on it, too. My one eye is pierced by an arrow and the other is filled with blood. If you will clear the blood from my one eye, I’ll be able to see you and fulfill my last dying desire. My second wish is that when I die you may not carry my body to the camp. I had promised to bring water to Sakina and, since I have failed in my attempt to bring her water, I cannot face her even in death. Besides, I know that the blows that you have received since morning have all but crushed you and carrying my body to the camp will be heart breaking work for you. And my third wish is that Sakina may not be brought here to see my plight. I know with what love and affection she was devoted to me. The sight of my dead body lying here will kill her” .

Husain sobbingly promised him that he would carry out his last wishes added:
“Abbas, I too have a wish to be fulfilled. Since childhood you have always called me master. For once at least call me brother with your dying breath.”

The blood was cleared from the eye, one brother looked at the other with a longing lingering look. Abbas was heard to whisper:
My brother, my brother and with these words he surrendered his soul to his Maker: Husain fell unconscious on the dead body of Abbas with a cry:
O Abbas, who is left to protect me and Sakina after you?

The flow of Furat became dark as winter and a murmur arose from the flowing water as if to protest against the killing of a thirsty water-bearer on its banks.

Abbas –The Dua’ of Ali

Abbas –The Dua’ of Ali / The worship of al-Sajjad (as)

 

 

“Say (O Muhammad) are those who know equal to those who do not know? Verily only the men of understanding take admonition”. (39:9)

 

 

According to Imam Ja’ffar ibn Muhammad al-Sadiq (as):‘Those who know’ refers to the Imams of Ahlul-Bayt (as); ‘Those who do not know’ refers to the opponents of Ahlul-Bayt (as) and  ‘The men of understanding’ are the sincere devotees of Ahlul-Bayt (as). (Tafseer of S V Mir Ahmad Ali)

 

HAZRAT ABBAS (AS)

 

Hazrat Abbas is the hope of Imam Ali (as); He is the wish and desire of Imam Ali (as); He is the answered prayer of Imam Ali (as). History tells that:

 

The first wife of Imam Ali (as) was the beloved daughter of the Holy Prophet (saww) – Sayyida Fatima al-Zahra (as). Together, they were blessed with 4 children: Hasan, Husayn, Zaynab, Umm Kulthoom & Muhsin (who was martyred whilst still in the womb of his mother).

 

After the death of Sayyida Fatima (as), when our first Imam (as) intended to remarry, he (as) took his son al-Husayn (as) and visited his brother Aqeel (as).

Aqeel, in those days, was very well known about the family trees of the Arabs and their backgrounds. Our Imam (as) came to him and said, “O Brother Aqeel! Marry me to a woman who belongs to a tribe, which is well known for its courage & bravery. I want Allah (SWT) to bless me with a son from her womb who inherits the bravery and helps this son of mine in Karbala”.

Saying this, he (as) pointed towards al-Husayn (as).

 

Aqeel proposed to our Imam (as) the name of Fatima, daughter of Hazam, who belonged to the tribe of Banu Kilaab –well known for its courage & bravery during those days. Fatima was not an ordinary woman. She was a staunch lover and follower of Ahlul-Bayt (as) and she was very well aware of their status. Coming into this house, therefore, was the greatest honour for her. The day she stepped into the house of Ali (as), Fatima made it very clear to Imam Hasan (as) & Imam Husayn (as) that she had not come to replace their mother. Rather, she had come to them as their slave and hoped that they would accept her as that. Her love and respect for Imam Hasan (as) & Imam Husayn (as) was more than that for her own children. They were always foremost in her heart! The following incident shows the extent of love and respect she had for Imam Husayn (as):

 

One incident is about the time when she received the news stating the martyrdom of her four children, she said: “Tell me about Husayn (A.S.)”

And when she received the news of Imam Husayn (as)’s martyrdom she said:

“All of the arteries of my heart are torn. May all of my children and what ever that exists under this azure heaven be sacrificed for the sake of Imam Husayn (as).

 

Imam Ali (as) married Fatima bint Hazam and together they were blessed with four sons: Abdullah, Ja’ffar, Uthman & Abbas. It is because of the 4 sons that Fatima became known as Ummul-Baneen, meaning ‘the mother of sons’.

 

 

THE WISH & PRAYER OF ALI (AS) WAS FULFILLED

One of the bravest of the Holy Prophet’s followers Ja’ffar al-Tayyar, the brother of Imam Ali (as). In the battle of Muta, Ja’ffar Tayyar carried the Banner of Islam and in that battle he was out-numbered by the enemies and killed. When the news reached the Holy Prophet he cried and prayed for Ja’ffar’s soul and the angel Jibrael came down and consoled (the Prophet), saying “Ja’ffar was a brave and loyal soldier. God has given him everlasting life, and in place of two arms which were cut off in the battle, the Lord has given him a pair of wings”. Imam Ali (as), who was sitting near the Holy Prophet at that time, said, “Please pray to God that I should die fighting for the cause of Islam and become a martyr.” But the Holy Prophet said, “0 Ali, your death has already been decreed. You shall die in the mosque during your prayers, but the Almighty will give you a son who will die in the battle on Ashura day”. From that time Ali (as) eagerly awaited the birth of that son. This prophecy was made true on 4^th Sha’ban in the year 8 A.H. when Imam Hasan (as) was 5 years old and Imam Husayn (as) was 4.