While the caliph was looking at the captives...

While the caliph was looking at the captives, a young man approached him and said, "I heard the Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) say: 'The noble and honorable ones of their people should be respected. Their status should be considered'. These captives are of high status. As Muslims, we are not supposed to leave them in captivity. For my part, I set my own share free, seeking the pleasure of Allah and His Messenger".

The man was none but IMAM ALI IBN ABI TALIB (as) whose words were appreciated by all. Immediately the other believers, AL-ANSAR and AL-MUHAJREEN, followed his footstep and set free theirs. Peace and blessing of Allah be upon His Messenger who honored SAFANA daughter of HATIM AL-TAYEE, the man who was very famous for his generosity in the pre-Islamic era, though she was not yet Muslim. He set her free in regard due to her honorable status.

In pursuit of the sublime morals of the holy Prophet, his truthful and trustworthy cousin ALI (AS) put Islamic ethics to practice. Ali's action had a good impact on the Persian captives who felt at ease and no more worried about their future. They became sure of Islamic justice and tolerance. Undoubtedly, Islamic instructions and teachings do not discriminate between Arabs and non-Arabs, or between white and black.

All are equal in rights and should enjoy the caliph's protection and care, since he is supposed to be the best man after the Messenger of Allah. They felt special love for Ali (as). A DIVINE FAVOUR Soon after this event, SHAHRBANO daughter of YAZDAJERD was chosen a wife for IMAM AL-HUSAIN (AS), the younger son of IMAM ALI (AS). She gave birth to a son who was named ALI AL-ASGHAR (Ali the Junior), known also as ZAIN AL-ABDIN (the best of the worshippers) due to his great piety and chastity.

He is the fourth Imam from the Prophet's lineage. Some historians do not know the exact story of SHAHRBANO as it has been related. IMAM HUSAIN (AS) had another son called ALI AL-AKBAR (Ali the Senior) who greatly resembled the holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.) and who was blessed with martyrdom at the battle of KERBALA on the 10th of MUHARRAM the year 61 of HIJRA.

IMAM ZAIN AL-ABIDIN (AS) resembled his grandfather IMAM ALI (AS) in bravery, patience and piety along with his sound knowledge and brilliant talent. Narrators say that when he accompanied his father on their way to KERBALA, he was full of determination and prowess. When the battle started, everyone had a sword and a shield.