ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books A Shi'ite Encyclopedia (chapter 5) Tragedy of Karbala As Reported By the Sunnis (part I) In this series we provide the history of the events of Karbala as recorded by the Sunnis. Although dampened, and sometimes inaccurate on the favor of the tyrants, such Sunni documents are the lasting testimony for the undeniable horrible massacre of the household of the Prophet (PBUH&HF). The information, unless otherwise specified, are from the History of al-Tabari.

Few remarks on the History of al-Tabari by the Sunni scholars. Shibli Numani wrote: Among books of historical character, an authentic and very comprehensive book is that of the Imam al Tabari, known was Tarikh Kabir. Al Tabari is a writer whose scholarly attain- ments and whose sure and extensive knowledge are unanimiuosly recognised by the traditionists. His commentary by far is the best of the commentaries.

The well known traditionist, Ibn Khuzaima, says that he knew no man learned than al Tabari. Al Tabari died in the year 310 A.H - 921 C.E. Some traditionists, al Sulaimani in particular, have remarked that al Tabari coined traditions for the Shia. Regarding this charge against al Tabari, Allama al Dhahabi, in his Mizan al-I'tidal says: This is an allegation based on false misgivings. The fact is that Ibn Jarir is one of the most trust worthy Imam.

al-Dhahabi has further remarked: All the authentic and comprehensive books of history, such as Tarikh al Kamil and those written by Ibn al Athir, Ibn Khuldun, Abual Fida etc, are based on his work and abridged Tarikh of al- Tabari.

Sunni reference: Sirah al-Nabi -- The Life of the Prophet, by Shibli Numani, English version, v1, p25 The Martrydom foretold On the death of Muawiya, when Imam Hussain (as) refused to pledge his allegiance to Yazeed, he went to the tomb of his grandfather, (saw, pbuh&hf). He worshipped there for the most of the night, and also slept there for a while, in his dream he saw the Messenger of Allah, May Allah bless him and his cleansed progeny, surronded by angels.

The Prophet (saw, pbuh&hf) embraced him and said: My beloved Hussain, I foresee you when you will be, in the very near future, covered with your blood, slain at the land of Karballa, while thirsty, being deprived of water. This will be done to you by people who claim that they are from my followers. Imam Hussain (as) in his dream looked at his grandfather and said: My grandfather, I ask you to admit me into your grave.