25th of Muharram marks sorrowful martyrdom anniversary of Imam al-Sajjad, peace be upon him
The 25th of Muharram, marks the solemn anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn al-Hussein, peace be upon him, the fourth infallible Imam and a beacon of guidance for Muslims worldwide.
Known by his revered titles such as Zayn al-Abidin (Adornment of Worshippers), Sayyid al-Sajidin (Master of the Prostraters), and al-Sajjad (The Prostrator), his blessed life was a testament to unwavering faith and profound wisdom amidst immense tribulation.
Born in Medina on the 5th of Sha’ban in the year 38 AH, Imam al-Sajjad (peace be upon him) witnessed pivotal moments in early Islamic history, including the leadership of his grandfather Imam Ali, and his father, Imam Hussein (peace be upon them both). He was miraculously preserved by divine will during the tragedy of Karbala, where he witnessed the brutal martyrdom of his father, brothers, and uncles (peace be upon them). His illness on that day ensured the continuity of the Imamate, allowing him to lead the captives to Kufa and Damascus.
Imam al-Sajjad’s resilience, coupled with the courageous awakening efforts of his aunt, Lady Zaynab (peace be upon her), ensured the eternal remembrance of Ashura. His powerful sermon in the Mosque of Damascus before Yazid, which shook the foundations of tyranny, remains a profound example of his eloquent defiance. As Yazid himself acknowledged, “He is from a household that has been fed knowledge from childhood.”
In the oppressive climate of the Umayyad and Marwanid rule, Imam al-Sajjad (peace be upon him) adopted a unique cultural strategy of spiritual supplication to guide the bewildered masses. His Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, a collection of the most eloquent and profound prayers, serves as a timeless spiritual guide, illuminating the path to communion with Allah. Furthermore, his Risalat al-Huquq (Treatise on Rights) meticulously outlines the true essence of human rights, offering a depth unmatched by modern perspectives due to its focus on humanity’s intrinsic nature.
Imam al-Sajjad’s enduring legacy continues to inspire millions, reminding us of his profound impact on preserving the true teachings of Islam. He was martyred by poison on the 25th of Muharram, 94 AH, at the hands of Walid ibn Abd al-Malik (may the eternal curse of Allah be upon him), and is laid to rest in the sacred Baqi’ cemetery, alongside his uncle Imam Hassan, and his son and grandson, Imam Muhammad al-Baqir and Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (peace be upon them all).
