Arabic Accounts of Al-Husayn's Martyrdom

Arabic Accounts of Al-Husayn's Martyrdom

The martyrdom of Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhi al-salām — peace be upon him) at Karbalāʾ is among the most faithfully recorded events in Islamic history. Arabic Accounts of al-Ḥusayn’s Martyrdom gathers early Arabic narratives that preserve the immediacy, emotion, and theological insight surrounding the tragedy of ʿĀshūrāʾ (the tenth day of Muḥarram).

About the Book

Published by the World Organization for Islamic Services, Arabic Accounts of al-Ḥusayn’s Martyrdom presents a curated collection of classical Arabic reports on the martyrdom of Imam Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī (ʿa), the grandson of Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him and his Family). These accounts, drawn from early historians and transmitters of akhbār (reports) and ḥadīth (prophetic tradition), depict the unfolding of the events at Karbalāʾ through authentic voices of the time. The book highlights the depth of emotion and faith that defined the eyewitness narratives, while also examining how these records shaped Muslim collective memory. Contextual introductions and annotations help modern readers appreciate the literary style, moral tone, and historical integrity of these sources. The collection situates the martyrdom of Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa) within the continuous mission of the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhim al-salām — peace be upon them, the Prophet’s Household), emphasizing the unity between Imam Ḥasan’s (ʿa) patience and Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) sacrifice.

What You Will Discover

• The earliest Arabic historical and devotional narratives describing Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) martyrdom.
• The relationship between akhbār (reports) and ḥadīth (prophetic tradition) in documenting the events of ʿĀshūrāʾ.
• The stylistic, emotional, and theological dimensions of Arabic martyrological literature.
• The continuity of purpose between Imam Ḥasan’s patience and Imam Ḥusayn’s martyrdom as reflections of divine will.
• How these early Arabic sources preserve the moral essence and enduring message of Karbalāʾ.

About the Author

The World Organization for Islamic Services is a Shīʿī scholarly and publishing institution based in Tehran, dedicated to preserving Islamic heritage and making primary sources accessible to global audiences. Its editorial mission emphasizes the faithful transmission of classical texts, the contextualization of early Arabic sources, and the promotion of the moral and intellectual legacy of the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa).

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for students, scholars, and readers seeking a reliable and well-annotated selection of early Arabic narratives that chronicle Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) martyrdom and preserve the spiritual and historical legacy of Karbalāʾ.