Leaflet 5

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KARBALA DAY

We Shia Muslims are marking the anniversary of killing of our holy family. We weep and mourn for them. They were murdered 1400 years ago. This is their brief account.

Ruthless tyrant Moaweya died in 680. He appointed his evil son Yazid as his heir. Both father and son were brutal enemies of Prophet and his descendents. Moaweya had killed Hasan and Ali. He also butchered thousands of followers of Ali. Now, Yazid set is Satanic eyes on the remaining bloodline of the holy family.

Husain was the last holy grandson of Mohammed. As soon Yazid became ruler, he ordered Husain to give him allegiance. Husain refused to recognise the dictator. Yazid threatened Husain. He thought Husain would give up under pressure. But Husain was pure Saint of God. He would rather die then submit to an oppressive ruler. He knew what kind of evil Yazid was. Therefore, Husain prepared his family for sacrifice in the way of God. Martyrdom of Husain was prophesised in ancient book such as the Bible.

When Husain denied Yazid, he had to leave his town. he went to Karbala. Husain and his family caravan was ambused. Yazid’s army at Karbala slaughtered Husain. Soldiers also killed 72 loyal of Husain. These men were from among Husain's family and friends. Yazid’s soldiers butchered the family of God’s Messenger. Women were taken as captured and dragged to Yazid.

Yazid tried to hide his evil murder at Karbala. But Husain’s sister Zainab gave a remarkable speech in Yazid’s palace. She exposed Yazid and the massacre of Prophet’s grandson. Zainab’s defiant speech shook the foundations of Yazid’s kingdom. Popular revolution followed in which Yazid was removed from power.

Husain and Zainab caused the collapse of the oppressive Omeyad dynasty. Husain stood for freedom, piety and justice. His brave sister Zainab saved his sacrifice. She prevented martyrdom from being wasted. Peace be upon holy brother and sister.

Today millions of people visit their shrines to honour the holy siblings. People all over the world mourn Husain. Every year we remember Karbala.


For questions or comments, email: saklayn@yahoo.com
http://www.ukshias.blogspot.com/

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