Al-Mukhtar was born in Taif in 622 CE (the same year the...

Al-Mukhtar was born in Taif in 622 CE (the same year the migrated to Medina) but later moved to Iraq at a young age and grew up in Kufa. At the age of 13, he took part in the Battle of al-Jisr, where he lost his father and brothers. Regardless of his young age, he insisted on going to the battlefield but was prevented by his uncle, Sa’d ibn Mas’ud.

His Noble Qualities The narrators mentioned that al-Mukhtar used to fast most days during his short-term Caliphate in gratitude for his revenge on the murderers of Imam al-Husain (peace be upon him), al-Mukhtar. Minhal ibn ‘Amr says, “I invited al-Mukhtar to my house on the day that Harmala was killed, but I was told that al-Mukhtar is fasting in gratitude to Allah.” Ibn Taqtaqi records that al-Mukhtar was a noble and effortful man.

Given that the Thaqif tribe was known for their bravery, and al-Mukhtar’s father and uncle were the great military leaders of early Islam, al-Mukhtar was nurtured in the same way. Al-Mukhtar was God-fearing and pious. He devoted his life to his religion. He built the foundations of his government on inclusive justice among the people. Despite his many works, he sat among the people and gave them legal decisions.

He followed the policy of the Commander of the Faithful, ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be on him). As for his friendship and loyalty toward the members of the pure Prophet’s Household (peace be on them), al-Mukhtar showed sincere friendship toward them and adored them. A proof for this is that Muslim b.

‘Aqil, al-Husayn’s emissary to Kufa, stopped at his house, told him of his secrets, negotiated with him about the affairs of the revolt, and informed him of those who pledged allegiance to Imam al-Husain (peace be on him). Among the qualities of al-Mukhtar was that he was a military-inspired commander. He was the most brilliant of the army commanders in designing war plans and appointing military methods to overcome the events. It was he who schemed the successful plans of the military coup.

He led this coup against the government of Kufa. Hence his plans were then unique in the Islamic world. It is pertinent to mention that al-Mukhtar occupied an exalted position in the sight of the Imams of (peace be on them), and secured their good pleasure. He pleased them when he avenged their blood, and destroyed those who shed their blood. There are many traditions concerning lauding him, respecting him, and admiring his benefits toward the Prophet’s Household.