ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books The Life of Imam Husain ('a) Period of Imam Amirul Momineen Ali (‘a) Part 2 General Battle When the Imam became sure that there was no possibility of a truce he readied his army in an elaborate way. Ayesha’s supporters similarly followed, making her sit astride her camel, Askar. She was made to sit on a Howdah covered by iron coat of mail and they came out to the battlefield in this way. A severe battle ensued between the two armies.

Some historians say that Imam Husain (‘a) was leading a battalion and was in the left wing. He participated in the battle with firmness and determination**[1]** while Ayesha’s camel, according to those who were present there was the standard of the Basran army and people used to take refuge in it like people take refuge under a standard. The Imam attacked them holding the flag in his left hand and wielding the Zulfiqar in his right.

It was the sword used extensively during the period of the Prophet in defense of faith and to fight the polytheists. Both armies continued to fight a furious battle and Ayesha’s supporters wanted to obtain victory and help their mother while Ali’s followers desired to support their Imam and lay down their lives in defense of His Eminence.

Zubair is Killed Zubair was kind-hearted and held a position of esteem with the Holy Prophet (s) but lust for power had deceived him and made him come out in opposition to the Imam. In addition to this, it was his son, Abdullah Ibn Zubair who had forced him into this calamity and created a split between him and his faith.

The Imam was aware of Zubair’s soft-heartedness, therefore he went out to the battlefield and called out aloud, “Where is Zubair?” At that time Zubair was fully armed and he came out.

When Imam (‘a) saw him he hastened to him and the Imam embraced him and said to him in a kind manner, “O Abu Abdillah, what has brought you here?” “I have come to seek revenge of Uthman’s murder.” Imam glanced at him and asked, “Do you want revenge for Uthman’s murder?” “Yes.” “May Allah kill the murderers of Uthman. I swear to you by God, do you remember, one day you passed by me while you were with the Prophet and he was leaning on your hand.

Then the Messenger of Allah (s) saluted me and smiled to me.