Lectures on Ashura

Lectures on Ashura

The story of Karbalāʾ continues to echo through the centuries as a source of faith, reflection, and moral awakening. Lectures on Ashura offers a profound exploration of the tragedy of ʿĀshūrāʾ—the tenth day of Muḥarram—when Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhi al-salām — “peace be upon him”) the grandson of Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him and his Family), was martyred for his stand for truth (ḥaqq) and justice (ʿadl). This volume presents a series of intellectually engaging lectures that uncover the spiritual depth and ethical significance of this defining event in Islamic history.

About the Book

Lectures on Ashura contains four sermons delivered by the eminent Iranian scholar Murtadā Muṭahharī and translated into English by ʿAlī Qulī Qaraʾī. In these lectures, Muṭahharī examines the meaning of ʿĀshūrāʾ, the moral lessons of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) uprising, and the challenges of taḥrīf (distortion) that have affected how Karbalāʾ has been remembered through popular retellings. He emphasizes the need to distinguish between historical authenticity and emotional exaggeration, calling on Muslims to preserve the true message of sacrifice, resistance, and renewal of faith. The text combines scholarly precision with spiritual sincerity, reflecting Muṭahharī’s enduring commitment to the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhim al-salām — “peace be upon them,” referring to the Prophet’s Household).

What You Will Discover

• The historical and spiritual dimensions of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) martyrdom at Karbalāʾ. • The concept of taḥrīf (distortion) and its impact on understanding the ʿĀshūrāʾ narrative. • The role of truth (ḥaqq) and divine justice (ʿadl) as guiding principles in the mission of Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa). • The intellectual and emotional balance between devotional mourning and critical reflection in Shīʿī thought. • The ethical relevance of Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) message in confronting moral decay and social injustice in modern times. • The continuity of the mission of Imam Ḥasan (ʿa) and Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa) as twin embodiments of patience and sacrifice.

About the Author

Murtadā Muṭahharī (1919–1979) was a philosopher, theologian, and reformist thinker whose works remain central to modern Islamic intellectual discourse. A student of ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabāʾī and a close associate of Imām Khomeinī, he wrote and lectured extensively on ethics, philosophy, and social justice. His clarity of expression and deep insight into the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa) tradition made his writings essential reading for both seminary and academic audiences.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for readers seeking a lucid and spiritually grounded understanding of ʿĀshūrāʾ, Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) stand, and the timeless moral and theological lessons drawn from the tragedy of Karbalāʾ.