When his sad reflections had subsided...

When his sad reflections had subsided, he replied to them in a tone tinged with pathos, Alas, I only wish I could entrust my Ali Akbar to your care! In my mission he has to play a role, the importance of which time alone will tell. I cannot accede to your request for reasons which I cannot reveal to you; but rest assured that I shall always remember your kindness to me. I shall carry with me vivid memories of this parting and remember you in my prayers.

When the heavens were glowing with the last rays of day, the caravan left on its long-drawn journey to the unknown destination. Soon darkness descended upon Medina as if symbolic of the darkness and gloom which the departure of Hussain had cast on the town, associated with a myriad memories of his childhood. Meandering through the desert, the caravan had reached its destination, a destination which Allah had willed for it.

The march of Hussain and his kinsmen in this world had ended; but it was just the beginning of their march toward their real goal. With the dawn of the 10th day of the month of Muharram the events, for which the Prophet and Ali and Fatima had prepared Hussain, started unfolding themselves. What a day it was and what fateful events it encompassed! Previous…