Shia devotees worldwide mourn Imam al-Hassan al-Mujtaba, Generous of Ahlul-Bayt, on Safar 7
Imam al-Hassan al-Mujtaba, peace be upon him, the second of the Shia Twelve Imams, is a revered figure among all sects of Islam known for his piety, generosity, compassion, and his pivotal role in upholding the religion of God. Born in the year 625 CE in Medina, he was the eldest son of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib and Lady Fatimah, peace and blessings be upon them.
Imam al-Hassan’s Imamate was marked by his principled stand against oppression. His notable confrontations against Evil culminated in his stance against the oppressive Umayyad ruler, Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan. Despite facing immense pressure from his own companions, Imam al-Hassan remained resolute in his commitment to the Divine Cause, and continued his strategic fight by entering into a peace treaty with Muawiya to prevent further bloodshed among Muslims and unveil the tyrants’ vicious face. This act showcased his wisdom and deep concern for the well-being of the Muslim community.
There are several accounts of Imam al-Hasan’s (peace be upon him) forbearance, which was so great that earned him the epithet “al-Halim” (the Forbearing One). Imam al-Hasan (peace be upon him) was immensely generous, and because of that he was called “Karim” “Sakhi” and “Jawad” (three Arabic words meaning a generous person). It is reported that he donated all his properties and wealth to charity twice in his life and donated half of all he had three times to the poor and needy.
Imam al-Hassan fought bravely in Battles of Jamal, Siffin and Nahrawan to assist Amir al-Momineen, peace be upon him. His significant role in these battles is a testament to his valiant nature to serve the will of God.
After years of being plotted by the enemies of Ahlul-Bayt, Imam al-Hassan’s life tragically came to an end on the 7th of Safar in the year 670 CE in Medina. He was poisoned by his own wife, Jaʿda bint al-Ashʿath, which reflects his loneliness even among his own family. The enemies of Ahlul-Bayt did not stop there, and shot arrows to his body during his funeral before he was buried in Baqi cemetery.
Annually, during the first ten days of the month of Safar, Shia Muslims around the world commemorate Imam al-Hassan’s martyrdom. The Majalis held during this time serve as platforms to reflect on his life, virtues, teachings, and his unwavering dedication to righteousness. His legacy endures as a beacon of strength, inspiring believers to emulate his virtues of compassion, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to establishment of religious teachings and moral principles.
