Allah, Exalted and Glorious, granted Imām Ḥusayn (a) a unique distinction: the survival of Islam is intrinsically tied to his martyrdom and his pure blood. Islam is Muhammadan in origin, but Ḥusayni in endurance. This is one of the meanings behind the Prophet’s (a) statement: “Ḥusayn is from me, and I am from Ḥusayn.”
For this reason, in all Islamic occasions, there is a special emphasis on visiting Imām Ḥusayn (a). In fact, among all recommended deeds during Islamic commemorations, the most virtuous and emphasized is the visitation (ziyarah) of Imām Ḥusayn (a). This recurring instruction from the Ma‘sumeen (a) is a deliberate directive, aimed at constantly directing hearts and minds toward Ḥusayn (a) and his cause. The reasoning behind this is:
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Without Imām Ḥusayn (a), nothing would remain of Islam except its name, let alone any Islamic occasions to commemorate.
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The purpose of reviving these religious occasions is to draw nearer to Allah through acts of worship and devotion, and Imām Ḥusayn (a) is the swiftest path to nearness to Allah. Without him, these acts of devotion would not have endured.
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Imām Ḥusayn (a) is the heir of all prophets and successors. He is the extension of Muhammad, ‘Ali, Fatimah, and Hasan (a), and the father of nine Ma‘sumeen. Thus, when we visit Ḥusayn (a), we are, in effect, renewing our allegiance to all of them.
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The ultimate victory of the people of truth over falsehood, under the leadership of Imam al-Hujjah (aj), will be realized under the banner of “O avengers of Ḥusayn!”
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One cannot be truly Mahdawi (devoted to the Mahdi) without first being Ḥusayni.
Many ziyarat texts have been narrated for Imām Ḥusayn (a), and nearly every Islamic occasion includes a specific visitation for him. However, among all these visitations, Ziyarat Ashura holds a unique status. Indeed, one may say: Ziyarat Ashura and its profound significance stand apart.
Thār Allāh Series is a collection of blog posts that aim to introduce the meanings and themes of Ziyarat Ashura.