The Timeline of Imam Hussain’s (AS) Uprising
A Stand Against Tyranny
The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) in the desert of Karbala remains one of the most defining moments in Islamic history. His courageous stand against oppression and injustice continues to inspire millions around the world. Below is a detailed timeline of the events leading up to and including the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions.
1. The Demand for Allegiance and Imam Hussain’s Refusal
After the death of Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan in Rajab 60 AH (April 680 CE), his son Yazid seized power and demanded allegiance from Imam Hussain (AS). However, Yazid was known for his corruption, oppression, and deviation from Islamic principles. Imam Hussain (AS), as the rightful leader of the Muslim Ummah and grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), refused to legitimise Yazid’s tyrannical rule.
2. Departure from Medina (28th Rajab 60 AH)
To avoid bloodshed in Medina and to seek a safer place to plan his next steps, Imam Hussain (AS) left for Mecca on the 28th of Rajab. He intended to perform Hajj and use this time to gather support against Yazid’s oppressive regime.
3. The Call from Kufa and Muslim ibn Aqil’s Mission (Ramadhan-Shawwal 60 AH)
While in Mecca, Imam Hussain (AS) received thousands of letters from the people of Kufa (in present-day Iraq), urging him to lead them in revolt against Yazid’s governor, Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad. To assess the situation, Imam Hussain (AS) sent his cousin, Muslim ibn Aqil, to Kufa. Initially, Muslim was welcomed, and thousands pledged allegiance to Imam Hussain (AS).
However, Yazid’s forces soon cracked down on the uprising. Through bribery and threats, they turned the people of Kufa against Muslim ibn Aqil. Betrayed and abandoned, Muslim was captured and executed on 9th Dhul-Hijjah 60 AH.
4. Imam Hussain’s Decision to Continue Toward Kufa (8th Dhul-Hijjah 60 AH)
Upon learning of Muslim ibn Aqil’s martyrdom, Imam Hussain (AS) realised that the people of Kufa had broken their promises. Despite warnings from well-wishers, he chose to proceed toward Kufa, declaring:
"I see death as nothing but happiness, and life under tyrants as nothing but misery."
He left Mecca on 8th Dhul-Hijjah, the same day Hajj pilgrims were performing their rituals, ensuring his departure did not disrupt the sacred pilgrimage.
5. Interception by Hurr ibn Yazid al-Riyahi (2nd Muharram 61 AH)
As Imam Hussain (AS) and his small caravan (comprising family members and loyal companions) neared Kufa, they were intercepted by Hurr ibn Yazid al-Riyahi, a commander of Yazid’s army. Hurr’s orders were to force Imam Hussain (AS) toward the barren land of Karbala, cutting off access to water and reinforcements.
6. Arrival in Karbala (3rd Muharram 61 AH)
Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers set up camp in Karbala, surrounded by Yazid’s forces. Over the next days, the enemy army grew to thousands, while Imam Hussain’s group remained only 72 (including his family, young children, and loyal companions).
7. The Night Before Ashura (9th Muharram 61 AH)
On the night of 9th Muharram, Yazid’s commander, Umar ibn Sa’ad, received orders to attack unless Imam Hussain (AS) surrendered unconditionally. Imam Hussain (AS) spent the night in prayer and supplication, preparing his companions for martyrdom.
8. The Day of Ashura (10th Muharram 61 AH – October 10, 680 CE)
At dawn, the Battle of Karbala began. One by one, Imam Hussain’s companions and family members fought valiantly and were martyred. By midday, the water supply was completely cut off, and the heat intensified the suffering of Imam Hussain’s camp.
In the final moments, Imam Hussain (AS) stood alone against the enemy forces. He was brutally martyred, his body mutilated, and his head severed. His six-month-old son, Ali al-Asghar, was killed by an arrow, and his brother Abbas (AS) was martyred while trying to fetch water for the children.
9. The Aftermath: Captivity and the Spread of Truth
Following the massacre, the women and children, including Imam Hussain’s sister Lady Zainab (AS) and his surviving son Imam Zain-ul-Abideen (AS), were taken as prisoners. They were paraded through the streets of Kufa and Damascus, where Lady Zainab (AS) fearlessly exposed Yazid’s crimes, ensuring that the tragedy of Karbala would never be forgotten.
The Eternal Legacy of Karbala
Imam Hussain’s (AS) sacrifice was not just a battle for political power—it was a stand for truth, justice, and human dignity. His refusal to submit to tyranny has made him a universal symbol of resistance against oppression.
Every year, millions commemorate Ashura, mourning Imam Hussain (AS) while renewing their commitment to justice.
As Imam Khomeini (RA) once said:
"Every day is Ashura, and every land is Karbala."
The message of Karbala remains alive: Never surrender to oppression, no matter the cost.