Standing Alone: The Independent Choice of Muslim ibn Awsaja
How one companion’s unwavering resolve on the eve of Ashura teaches us the true meaning of moral courage and independent thought.
The Weight of the Crowd
We human beings are often influenced by the group much more than we realise. Have you ever believed deeply in a principle, only to doubt it when faced with dissenting opinions? Or perhaps you have acted simply because everyone else was doing the same?
Frequently, before asking what the right course of action is, we first check to see what the rest of the group is doing. However, a belief only gains true value when you possess the strength to stand by it even without the group’s support.
The Night When Everyone Was Free
On the night before Ashura, Imam Husayn (AS) gathered his companions and delivered a message rarely spoken by leaders in history. He informed them that the enemy sought only him, releasing them from their oaths of allegiance and declaring that anyone who wished to leave was entirely free to go.
In that moment, there was no reproach, no compulsion, and no obligation holding anyone back. Anyone could have departed into the night to save their life. This profound declaration stripped away the shield of the collective; no one could hide behind the group anymore, rendering everyone’s decision an intensely personal choice.
The Man Not Guided By the Crowd
Following the Imam’s words, one companion immediately stood up. He did not ask what the others intended to do, nor did he wait to see how many would choose to stay. Turning to the Imam, he asked how they could possibly abandon him, questioning what excuse they would have before God tomorrow regarding the Imam’s rights.
He had made his decision based firmly on what he believed was right, completely unswayed by the potential behaviour of others. This man was Muslim ibn Awsaja.
The True Measure of Character
Through his actions, Muslim ibn Awsaja taught us that holding an independent opinion means your criteria for making a decision must be the truth and your own conscience, rather than the number of people who agree or disagree with you. He showed that:
Sometimes, when everyone else is moving in one direction, you must stand still.
When everyone is afraid, you must consciously choose not to fear.
The most significant and valuable decisions of your life are those that no one else can make for you.
Ultimately, a person’s true character is forged in the quiet moments when all social pressure is completely removed—when there is no encouragement, no fear of judgment, and no coercion. Character is defined by a single, resonant question: “If no one else is involved in this decision, will I still choose this same path?”.