An Inspirational True Story from the Life of Imām ʿAlī ibn al-Ḥusayn (ʿa)

After the heart-wrenching tragedy of Karbala, the battlefield fell silent—but the mission of Imām ʿAlī ibn al-Ḥusayn Zayn al-ʿĀbidīn (ʿa) had only just begun. The son of Imām al-Ḥusayn (ʿa), though physically weakened, was spiritually stronger than ever. Shackled, exhausted, and grieving, he was paraded as a prisoner through the streets of Kūfa and Shām alongside the noble women of the Prophet’s household (peace be upon them). His neck bore the marks of chains, and his eyes carried the weight of sorrow—but his heart remained steadfast, filled with unwavering faith, resilience, and a divine sense of purpose.

When the captives reached Shām, the tyrant Yazīd prepared a grand spectacle in his court. People gathered from all corners—courtiers, officials, and curious onlookers—all expecting to hear glorification of the Umayyad dynasty and mockery of the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa). Instead, what they witnessed shook them to their core.

In arrogance, Yazīd mockingly gave Imām al-Sajjād (ʿa) permission to speak. The court fell silent as the frail, pale Imām (ʿa) —still chained—rose to deliver his khutbah. Despite his physical state, he radiated dignity and divine authority. Beginning with praise of Allah and blessings upon his grandfather, Prophet Muḥammad (ṣ), he immediately established his noble lineage. “O people,” he declared with a firm voice, “I am the son of Mecca and Mina. I am the son of Zamzam and Safā…”

His words flowed like a river of truth. He eloquently recounted the virtues and sacrifices of his grandfather, father, and uncles—unmasking the reality of those who had turned against the Prophet’s family. His speech cut through hearts and awakened sleeping souls. The audience, once passive, was moved to tears. Whispers filled the hall: Who is this prisoner who speaks with such majesty and courage?

Sensing the tide turning, Yazīd panicked. In an attempt to silence him, he ordered the adhān to be called. As the call reached “Ashhadu anna Muḥammadan Rasūlullāh,” the Imām turned to Yazīd and asked, “Is Muḥammad your grandfather or mine? If you say he is yours, you lie. But if you admit he is mine—then how could you justify killing his family and taking us as captives?”

The court was stunned. Yazīd was left speechless, exposed before all.

Though bound in chains, Imām al-Sajjād (ʿa) stood spiritually unshackled. Through his prayers, patience, and eloquent sermons, he carried the message of Karbala forward—not with swords, but with tears and truth. His legacy lives on in Ṣaḥīfa al-Sajjādiyya, a treasury of supplications that continue to heal and inspire.

To this day, he is remembered as Zayn al-ʿĀbidīn—the adornment of the worshippers—and the torchbearer of Karbala’s eternal light.