Imam Husain and His Martyrdom

Imam Husain and His Martyrdom

The tragedy of Karbalāʾ stands as one of the most transformative moments in Islamic history. Imam Husain and His Martyrdom offers a reflective study of the life, principles, and sacrifice of Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa), whose unwavering stand for truth (ḥaqq) and justice (ʿadl) continues to shape the moral imagination of Muslims across centuries and traditions.

About the Book

Imam Husain and His Martyrdom was written by Abdullah Yusuf Ali, a twentieth-century Muslim scholar and translator best known for his English commentary on the Qurʾān. In this thoughtful and concise work, he presents the historical background and ethical meaning of the martyrdom of Imam Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī (ʿa), the grandson of Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him and his Family) and the younger brother of Imam Ḥasan al-Mujtabā (ʿa). The author situates the events of Karbalāʾ within their broader theological and moral context, explaining how Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) stand against tyranny represents the triumph of faith, courage, and moral integrity. Written in clear and accessible English, the book bridges devotional emotion with intellectual reflection, making it suitable for readers both within and beyond the Muslim world.

What You Will Discover

• Historical circumstances leading to Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) uprising and the social forces that shaped the events of Karbalāʾ.
• The spiritual concept of shahādah (martyrdom) and its role in defining moral responsibility and steadfastness.
• The ethical principles of truth (ḥaqq) and divine justice (ʿadl) that guided Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) struggle.
• The lasting influence of Karbalāʾ on both Shīʿī and Sunnī thought, showing unity in shared moral ideals.
• The evolution of remembrance and mourning rituals that preserve the ethical and emotional depth of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) legacy.
• Reflections on the timeless relevance of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) example for confronting oppression and preserving spiritual dignity.

About the Author

Abdullah Yusuf Ali (1872–1952) was a British-Indian scholar, translator, and commentator on the Qurʾān. Renowned for his eloquent English rendering of the Holy Qurʾān and its comprehensive commentary, he sought to harmonize classical Islamic scholarship with modern intellectual discourse. His writings reflect deep engagement with Islamic ethics, spirituality, and the moral dimensions of faith.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for students, scholars, and general readers seeking a concise yet profound exploration of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) martyrdom and its enduring message of faith, courage, and justice.