🌙 Qasim ibn Hasan (AS): The Shining Moon of Karbala
The Story of a Young Hero Whose Bravery and Martyrdom Embodied the Spirit of Sacrifice at Just Thirteen Years Old
In the sacred city of Medina, on the 7th of Sha'ban, 47 A.H., a blessed soul entered this world — Qasim ibn Hasan (AS), the youngest son of Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (AS) and Umme Farwah. His birth, though joyous, carried within it the seeds of a future tragedy that would forever echo through the history of Islam.
Just three years after Qasim’s birth, his noble father was martyred. Following this, the young orphan was placed under the care of his beloved uncle, Imam Hussain (AS). Qasim was raised not only with compassion and love but also with spiritual training and martial preparation. His mentor in the art of battle was none other than Abu al-Fadl al-Abbas (AS), the Lion of Karbala. Imam Hussain would often look at Qasim and see the face of his brother Hasan — the very image of patience and dignity.
A Father’s Last Will
Before his martyrdom, Imam Hasan (AS) foresaw the coming tragedy of Karbala. He entrusted Umme Farwah with a letter and a message for his son:
“My son Qasim! A day will come when my brother Hussain will face an army of tens of thousands. On that day, Islam will be in need of sacrifice. Represent me, my son, and stand beside my brother.”
Qasim, though only a child, absorbed this message as a divine duty. That letter would become his license to embrace martyrdom.
The Day of Ashura: A Warrior's Awakening
On the 10th of Muharram, as the sands of Karbala turned red with the blood of martyrs, Qasim ibn Hasan, only thirteen years old, approached Imam Hussain and pleaded for permission to fight. Twice the Imam refused:
“Qasim, you are young. You are your mother’s only son.”
Heartbroken, Qasim returned to his mother, who remembered the letter. With trembling hands, she handed it to her son. Qasim returned to the Imam and placed the letter in his hand. Imam Hussain read the words of his brother and, with a heavy heart, said:
“O my brother’s son, how can I stop you from doing what your father wanted you to do?”
With tears in his eyes, Imam Hussain tied the turban of Imam Hasan on Qasim’s head and helped him onto his horse. The two embraced. It was a farewell that tore the heavens.
Death Sweeter Than Honey
Qasim entered the battlefield like a radiant moon. His youthful face shone with divine light, prompting whispers among the enemy:
“How can we kill one whose face shines like the moon?”
In a clear and brave voice, he introduced himself and challenged the warriors. Despite his age, he fought valiantly, killing several skilled fighters. After each victory, he would turn to Abbas (AS) and proudly wave. Abbas would lovingly wave back — a bond of courage and love.
But the enemy, unable to defeat him in one-on-one combat, surrounded him. Umar ibn Nafeel Azdee struck him from behind with a sword, wounding his head. The young hero collapsed, weakened by thirst and injury.
A Garden of Pieces
Imam Hussain (AS) and Abbas (AS) rushed to him. The enemy tried to block their path, and by the time they reached Qasim, the scene was unbearable.
Qasim’s body had been trampled by horses. It was in pieces, scattered across the sands.
Imam Hussain dismounted, removed his cloak, and gathered the remains of his beloved nephew — as one gathers flowers from a garden. He held back his tears and took Qasim back to the tents.
Ya Qasim… Ya Qasim…
Death was truly sweeter than honey for you.
Legacy of a Youthful Martyr
Though young in age, Qasim ibn Hasan (AS) was towering in faith and sacrifice. His bravery, purity, and undying loyalty have immortalised him in the hearts of believers forever. He was the son of Hasan (AS), the nephew of Hussain (AS), and the symbol of youthful martyrdom that still brings tears to the eyes of those who remember Karbala.
His name remains among the greatest warriors of Ashura — proof that even a child, when fuelled by love for truth, can shake the world.