The journey of Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) — from Madinah to Makkah and finally to Karbala — was not only historic but spiritual. It was a mission to uphold the truth of Islam and protect the legacy of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from falling into the hands of tyranny. When the noble caravan arrived in Karbala, it marked the beginning of the most heart-wrenching and tragic siege in Islamic history.
explore what happened after Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) and his family were stopped, how they were denied water, and what occurred in the final moments before the Day of Ashura.
The Arrival and Encampment at Karbala
On the 2nd of Muharram 61 AH, Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه), his family, and a small group of loyal companions arrived in the barren land of Karbala, situated near the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq.
Upon reaching the area, Yazid’s army, under the leadership of Umar ibn Sa’ad, surrounded them. Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) was told that he could neither go forward to Kufa nor return to Madinah. He was forced to stop in this desolate land — and it was here that the final encampment was set up.
Despite being blocked on all sides, Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) maintained patience, continued offering prayers, and reminded his companions to remain steadfast and hopeful in Allah.
The Siege and Denial of Water
Soon after the encampment, Yazid’s army cut off access to the Euphrates River. This happened on the 7th of Muharram, as part of a brutal strategy to pressure Imam Hussain into surrendering. The denial of water lasted for three days — causing extreme thirst, especially among the children, women, and the elderly.
Even infants, like Ali Asghar (رضي الله عنه) — the six-month-old son of Imam Hussain — suffered the pain of thirst. The cries of the children echoed in the camp of Ahl-e-Bayt, yet Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) and his companions bore it with unmatched sabr (patience).
Despite being surrounded, Imam Hussain did not lose hope in Allah. He made several attempts to negotiate peace and reminded the enemy of his noble lineage and connection to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, saying:
“O people! Recognize me. Who am I? Am I not the grandson of your Prophet ﷺ ?”
But hearts had been hardened by worldly desires and fear of Yazid’s punishment.
The Noble Character of Imam Hussain During the Siege
Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) demonstrated unmatched leadership and character even in such a dire situation. He spent his final nights:
Praying, making du’a, and reciting the Qur’an
Comforting his family members
Encouraging his companions to remain firm
He addressed his loyal followers and gave them permission to leave if they wished, saying:
“Those who stay with me will be killed. So I lift the bay’ah (pledge) from you.”
But not one of his companions left. They chose martyrdom over betrayal. This shows the love, loyalty, and commitment to the truth that surrounded Imam Hussain.
The Night Before Ashura (9th Muharram)
The night before Ashura, known as Shaam-e-Ghariban, was a night of intense devotion, reflection, and spiritual preparation.
Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) spent the night in worship and prayer.
His companions, knowing death awaited them, still remained content and at peace, even joyful for the honor of martyrdom.
The women and children, including Sayyidah Zainab (رضي الله عنها), remained firm in their faith and dignity.
This night reflects the highest level of imaan (faith) ever seen — where every individual in Imam Hussain’s camp chose truth over life.
Lessons from the Siege of Karbala
The siege of Karbala was not merely a military blockade — it was a spiritual test, a symbol of how far truth must be protected, even at the cost of life.
It teaches us:
Never to surrender to oppression or falsehood
Always to stand by the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ
That martyrdom (shahadat) for the sake of Deen is the highest honor
Conclusion: A Divine Mission in the Face of Cruelty
The arrival at Karbala, the denial of water, and the last moments before Ashura are chapters written with blood, faith, and sacrifice. Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) and his blessed family showed that Islam is not a religion of silence in the face of evil — it is a Deen of courage, honor, and divine submission.
As followers of Ahl-e-Sunnat wal Jama’ah, we remember Karbala not to mourn with rituals, but to live with lessons. Let us make du’a to Allah that He grants us the strength to remain firm in Deen, to stand against injustice, and to walk in the footsteps of Imam Hussain (رضي الله عنه) — the lantern of guidance and the savior of Islam.