Lessons from Karbala

We need to rediscover sense of togetherness, learn from examples set years ago, avoid replicating cruelty of Karbala.

The events that took place in Karbala many centuries ago still arouse pain as the tragedy of the battle fought between forces representing good and evil is recalled. The example of courage and forbearance set by Imam Hussain (RA), as he led his troops against a cruel enemy is a story history cannot forget. Nor the wise leadership of Imam Hussain’s (RA) elder brother, Imam Hassan (RA), who died before Karbala took place, as he attempted to bring peace which would benefit the people.

The sacrifices made at Karbala in the years that followed the massacre inspire Muslims and people of other faiths, everywhere. We can only wish that in the world of today, there were more persons willing to emulate Imam Hussain (RA) and what he stood for, refusing to give in to wrong and to stand up for principle.

For centuries, the story created a sense of unity among Muslims. Today, in our country, it divides. Muharram, the month on the Islamic calendar when that battle was fought, has turned into a time of renewed terror and pain for our nation. Over the last decade, hundreds have died in brutal terrorist attacks on Ashura processions, taken out as per tradition by the Shia sect. Extremist Sunni outfits have, in fact, targeted Shias on other occasions as well. During the 9^th and 10^th of Muharram, which are most fervently marked as days of mourning by Shias, fresh pain has often been inflicted by suicide bombers or gunmen.

Yet, there was a time, not so long ago in our past, when there was unity; when Sunnis, too, joined in the mass mourning for the death of the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by putting up ‘sabeels’ and offering refreshments along the route of processions — when fear was not the focus of Muharram. That has, unfortunately, changed. We need to rediscover the sense of togetherness, learn from the example set years ago and avoid replicating the cruelty of Karbala by brutally slaying people.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 25^th, 2012.