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Hazrat Abul-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him), with all his concern, Hazrat Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) departed and gave him permission to go.
Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) said: "If you must go, then at least try to bring water for the children."
Abbas said: "I will go and try." He went to the river to fetch water. As he did, he was attacked and fought bravely. Despite his efforts, he was injured and could not bring the water back.
He returned, heavily wounded, and fell to the ground. Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) ran to him and held him. Abbas said: "Forgive me, Brother, I could not bring the water."
The Legacy and Valor of Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (PBUH): A Tribute to Karbala
Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) is revered as the ruler of the Dasht of Karbala and the standard-bearer (Alamdar) of Hazrat Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), the Master of Martyrs. His devotion to his brother and his unwavering commitment to serve are well-documented. Let us explore his attributes, titles, lineage, and significant contributions to Islamic history.
Attributes, Titles, and Lineage
Attributes, titles, and surnames reflect the character, origin, lineage, and status of a person. Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) is renowned for his valor, loyalty, and unwavering faith. His character is a testament to his noble lineage, being the son of Hazrat Ali (peace be upon him) and the brother of Imam Hasan and Imam Hussein (peace be upon them). The infallible Imams (peace be upon them) have elaborated on his virtues and titles, emphasizing his eminent status in Islam (1).
Valor and Historical Contributions
Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) is celebrated for his bravery and contributions to historical texts. He authored works such as Dilawari, Shujaat, Zibai, and Rukhsar, highlighting his virtues, good manners, and moral excellence (2).
In Bihar Al-Anwar, it is recorded that Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) possessed remarkable knowledge and unwavering loyalty to Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). His valor and physical prowess earned him the title "Qamar Bani Hashim" (the Moon of Bani Hashim) (3).
Titles and Their Significance
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Alamdar (Standard-Bearer): As the flag-bearer of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), he played a crucial role during the Battle of Karbala, leading with unparalleled bravery (4).
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Saqa (Water Carrier): His efforts to fetch water for the thirsty children and family members of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) during the Battle of Karbala earned him this title (5).
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Bab al-Hawaij (The Door to Fulfilling Needs): His reputation for interceding and fulfilling the needs of those who sought his help is widely acknowledged among both Shiites and Sunnis (6).
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Qamar Bani Hashim (The Moon of Bani Hashim): Known for his radiant appearance and noble demeanor, this title reflects his physical and spiritual beauty (7).
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Shahid (Martyr): His martyrdom at Karbala is a testament to his sacrifice and unwavering loyalty to Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). He is remembered as a symbol of ultimate sacrifice in the face of tyranny (8).
Martyrdom and Legacy
The tragic events leading to his martyrdom at the Battle of Karbala are well-documented in various historical texts. Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) fought valiantly to protect his family and uphold the principles of justice and righteousness. His final moments, as recounted in Bihar Al-Anwar and The Killing of Al-Hussein by Muqrim, showcase his unyielding courage and dedication to his cause (9).
The life and legacy of Hazrat Abu al-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him) continue to inspire generations. His titles and attributes reflect his noble character, unwavering faith, and extraordinary valor. He remains a beacon of courage and sacrifice in Islamic history, revered for his profound contributions and enduring legacy.
References:
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Bihar Al-Anwar, Volume 45, pages 40-39.
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Salashhuran Taf, page 77.
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Encyclopedia of Batal Al-Alqami, Volume 2, page 11.
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Literature of Al-Abbas bin Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (peace be upon him), pages 35-34.
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Encyclopedia of Karbala, Labib Baydoun, Volume 2, 132.
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Al-Abbas (peace be upon him), Volume 1, page 139.
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R.K. History of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), Volume 9, page 178.
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Manaqib of the family of Abu Talib (peace be upon them), Volume 4, page 108.
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The killing of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) Muqrim, pages 210 - 209 - Translation of Al-Tabari’s History, Volume 7, pages 3007 - 3006 - Al-Kamil, Volume 4, page 53 - Al-Akhbar Al-Tawwal, page 255.
Al-Abbas was tall, handsome, and unmatched in courage. He was called Qamar Bani Hashim for his beauty and grace.
hen his right hand was cut off, he recited, "By God, if you cut off my right hand, I will never stop defending my religion and the truthful Imam, the son of the pure and faithful Prophet."
Learn the details of the most famous “eight nicknames” by which Abu al-Fadl al-Abbas was known
The Birth of Al-Abbas bin Ali: The Moon of Bani Hashem
Today, the fourth of the month of Shaban, marks the birth of the Moon of Bani Hashem, Al-Abbas bin Ali bin Abi Talib, peace be upon them.
According to historians, Al-Abbas was the first child born to Lady Fatima bint Hizam Al-Kallabiya, known as “Umm Al-Banin,” the wife of Ali bin Abi Talib after the martyrdom of Fatima Al-Zahra, peace be upon her. Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, holds high titles due to his exceptional qualities derived from the teachings of Muhammad's message, and his noble and virtuous morals.
Prominent Titles of Al-Abbas
1. The Moon of Bani Hashem:
This title is attributed to his radiant splendor and beautiful appearance, making him one of the distinguished members of Bani Hashem.
2. Al-Saqqa’:
This title, which means "the water carrier," reflects his courage and repeated efforts to break the siege imposed by the accursed “Ibn Marjana” to provide water during the incident of Ashura. Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, was martyred while carrying water.
3. The Hero of Al-Alqami:
Named after the river “Al-Alqami,” on whose banks Al-Abbas was martyred. Despite being surrounded by the soldiers of Omar bin Saad's army, Al-Abbas repeatedly defeated them and stormed the fortified river.
4. The Flag-Bearer:
He was entrusted with carrying the standard of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, in the Battle of Al-Taf due to his military prowess. This position was highly sensitive and important in the army, and Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, chose Al-Abbas for this role over other family members and companions.
5. The Battering Ram of the Battalion:
This title reflects his role as the supreme commander in the army, showcasing his excellent management skills and formidable strength, making him a terrifying force for his opponents.
6. Brigadier General:
Al-Abbas earned this title as the most prominent member of the military leadership, serving as the brigadier general of his brother Abu Abdullah’s army and leading forces in the Battle of Al-Taf.
7. The Protector of Al-Da’inah:
Al-Da’inah refers to the woman who passed away across the howdah, and Al-Abbas earned this title for his dedication to protecting and caring for the vulnerable during the battles.
8. Fulfiller of Needs:
This title was given based on the experiences of people whose needs were met through the intercession of Abu al-Fadl al-Abbas, peace be upon him, as God alleviated their distress through him.
The legacy of Al-Abbas bin Ali, peace be upon them, continues to inspire and evoke reverence due to his unmatched valor, loyalty, and selflessness, marking him as a beacon of virtue and heroism in Islamic history.
He remains a beacon of sacrifice and dedication, whose virtues are celebrated and emulated by those who honor his memory.
Al-Abbas bravely approached the Euphrates, filled the waterskin, and on his way back, he was attacked, his hands were cut off, and he was martyred. Despite his thirst, he did not drink the water, showing his selflessness and devotion to his brother Hussein.
Was Abbas forgetful of Hussein’s thirst, so he remembered his thirst when he wanted to drink water?!
“Did Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas forget the thirst of Al-Hussein, peace be upon him, when he stormed the Euphrates River (so he remembered) his thirst when he wanted to drink? And wasn’t it appropriate for him to drink water in order to be strong enough to fight the enemies? Or was he obligated to drink in order to maintain his health? Himself from destruction?”
The response clarified that the origin of the news is from the account of Al-Hussein’s killing by Abu Mikhnaf Al-Azdi, which states: "(... Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) said to him, ‘If you decide, let him draw water for us.’ So he took his waterskin and carried it on the people until he filled the waterskin. They said, and he scooped up a large amount of water. Then he mentioned the thirst of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him), so he threw it away and said, ‘Oh soul, after Al-Hussein, there will be peace, and after him, you would not have been.’"
The condition of Abu al-Fadl al-Abbas are apparent descriptions of the incident without the narrator knowing what was ailing Abbas’s soul at that time. It was not mentioned in a reliable narrative text from the infallible to provide knowledge of the subject. Furthermore, the mention of an incident does not imply negligence, especially since remembrance has varying levels of strength and weakness.
Assuming the description is accurate and reveals the condition of Abu al-Fadl (peace be upon him), it can be said that he had just returned from a massive military operation where he broke through the ranks until he reached Al-Mushra'ah, removing from it four thousand knights, led by Amr bin Al-Hajjaj Al-Zubaidi, and descended to the shore of the Euphrates. The matter may be similar to a subconscious movement that occurs to a thirsty person when he sees water; he rushes to it as a quick reaction. Abu al-Fadl, despite this initial impulse, poured the water out and refrained from drinking.
As for the argument of self-preservation and escaping death, it was not known that Abu al-Fadl (peace be upon him) had become so thirsty that he would end his life by abstaining from drinking. He was observed fighting like a hero for quite some time, indicating he was not fatally affected by thirst.
In response to why he did not drink to gain strength to fight the enemies, the value of these individuals' lives was not in mere survival but in presenting a high model of faith and morals for future generations to emulate. The true value lay not in a drink of water but in abstaining from it to establish an unparalleled example of altruism and brotherhood.
Abbas, peace be upon him, the blessed newborn
The Heroic Legacy of Al-Abbas: Courage and Loyalty Embodied
This newborn carried all the meanings of heroism and courage, embodying them in the battle of Karbala, characterized by blood and martyrdom. He was a hero of the truth, fighting against injustice and oppression. His name, Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, reflects the courage inherent in his being, combining the qualities of generosity and the advantages of perfection.
Meaning and Significance of His Name
In the language, the meaning of Abbas is a lion from which other lions escape, and thus the man was named - Abbas. According to Lisan al-Arab (Part 9, p. 20, Article: Abs), the name signifies a person who shows fear and panic through his strength and courage when confronting an opponent. These characteristics perfectly describe Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, who was like a great mountain with a heart equally immense. He was a passionate knight, a stubborn hero, and bold in attacking and striking in the field of jihad and war (Muntakhab Al-Tarihi, p. 306).
Characteristics of Al-Abbas, Peace Be Upon Him
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The Sea of Sciences, Mysteries, and Biographies: Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, was knowledgeable and well-versed in science, mysteries, and history.
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Knowledge of Stool and Courage: He was famous for his prowess and courage, holding the highest rank in these qualities.
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Bold in Feet and Strength: He inherited boldness and strength from his father, Imam Ali, peace be upon him, carrying the banner of victory, heroism, and courage in the Battle of Karbala.
Decent Life and Upbringing
Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, was distinguished by his qualities and academic status, which did not come from nothing. His father, Ali, the Commander of the Faithful, peace be upon him, needs no introduction. His mother, chosen from among the males of the stallions, was distinguished by her moral characteristics and loyalty. Imam Ali, peace be upon him, said: “Look for me a woman who was given birth to Arab stallions of family, lineage, and prowess, so that I may have a son from her who will be brave and supportive and support this son of mine - and he pointed to Al-Hussein - console him in the valley of Karbala” (Batal Al-Alqami, Part 1, p. 121). Umm al-Banin, peace be upon her, was loyal and generous, breastfeeding and raising Al-Abbas in the arms of guidance, practicing Islam and jihad, becoming a symbol of courage, will, and patience. He was born on the fourth of Shaban in the year 26 AH (Shiite Notables, Part 11, p. 476).
Historical Lies and Misconceptions
Despite his distinguished status, some historians have attempted to distort Al-Abbas’s legacy. They sought to undermine his humanity and his role in the Karbala epic. For example, Ibn al-Atheer claimed that Al-Abbas told his brothers to advance so that he might inherit from them, as they had no children (Al-Kamil in History, vol. 3, p. 529). This claim is also repeated by Al-Tabari (History of Al-Tabari, vol. 5, p. 448). However, this distortion contradicts all evidence and the noble character of Al-Abbas.
True Historical Accounts
In reality, Al-Abbas urged his brothers to defend Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, until their last breath. As Al-Dinouri mentions: “When Al-Abbas bin Ali saw the large number of dead, he said to his brothers Abdullah, Jaafar, and Othman bin Ali: Come forward, and defend your master until you die without him” (Al-Twal News, p. 257). This account shows Al-Abbas’s loyalty and dedication, urging his brothers to fight valiantly and protect Imam Hussein.
The Legacy of Al-Abbas
Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, remains a symbol of zeal, determination, and courage, as named by Imam Ali, peace be upon him. His legacy continues to inspire generations, embodying the values of sacrifice, loyalty, and unwavering faith in the face of oppression and injustice.
Imam Husain (peace be upon him) said to him: "Brother, you are the flag-bearer, and without you, our army will fall apart."
Hazrat Abbas replied: "..but for a long time now, I have wanted to fight and show my courage."
Al-Abbas bin Ali: The Legendary Water Bearer of Karbala
Historical sources confirm that Al-Abbas bin Ali, peace be upon them, was renowned for his role in providing water and that he was able to storm the Euphrates multiple times on the day of Ashura. This stands in contrast to the accounts by some fighter leaders, history writers, and pulpit preachers who claim that Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, went to the Euphrates and was martyred on his way back without delivering water to the family of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him. This discrepancy raises the question of why Abbas, peace be upon him, was called a cupbearer if he did not give them water to drink.
These sources confirm that Abbas, peace be upon him, had a lifelong affinity for providing water to the thirsty. This virtue was not born in a moment of necessity in Karbala but had been with him since his childhood. He used to provide water to his brothers and sisters whenever they needed it. His major role in the Battle of Siffin is also highlighted, where he took control of the Euphrates from Muawiyah Ibn Abi Sufyan, who had denied water to the companions of Imam Ali, peace be upon him. Abu al-Fadl carried his sword, confronted Muawiyah’s army, and forced them to retreat, securing the water for his companions.
History books also confirm that during the Battle of Karbala, Al-Abbas stormed the Euphrates three times and successfully brought back water to the camp of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him. He filled a large number of waterskins with water and delivered them to the thirsty people of Karbala.
These sources add that Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, was able to deliver water and irrigate the thirsty people of Karbala. However, he was martyred in his final attempt when he was betrayed by an arrow that struck one of his eyes and a pole that smashed his head. Thus, he remained a water-carrier from childhood until his martyrdom, earning his title through his unwavering commitment to quenching the thirst of those around him.
Abu al-Fadl carried his sword, confronted Yazid's army, and forced them to retreat, securing the water for his companions.
Shimr exaggerated to his people about Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and his family: “If water reaches them, they will annihilate you.”
The Eternal Loyalty of Al-Abbas
Here the image of loyalty remains in the memory of water. Here is the journey of the earth in the secrets of heaven. Here the river trembled at the voice of its master, carrying its eagerness. In his style, covered with wounds, immense love, and his banner, crowned with patience and insight, and his hands that became beacons. It is the image to which he closed his eyelids for the last time and did not drink the water. The cries of the children were echoing in his ears. The image of his brother Hussein’s thirsty face did not leave his mind, so he threw the water from his hand and did not drink.
By God, if you cut off my hands, I will never defend my religion, and a truthful and certain Imam *** the son of the pure and trustworthy Prophet. He is the moon of Banu Hashim, Al-Abbas bin Ali bin Abi Talib (peace be upon them), the heir of his father’s courage and banner. The flag that did not and will not fall because it was raised according to the saying: There is no god but God and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.
Honesty, courage, nobility, chivalry, loyalty, and altruism are traits that combined and blended in drawing the features of Abbas’s great personality, shaped by his great loyalty and intense adherence to the cause of his master and brother, Imam Hussein (peace be upon him).
Al-Abbas declared the love and loyalty that shone within him for Hussein and his body in Karbala with the most wonderful signs of loyalty, sacrifice, and steadfast faith. He became the immortal anthem of courage, an icon of eternal love, and a shining book of loyalty, when the pure ideological features were embodied in his words and actions. Truly, as Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) described him: "My uncle, Al-Abbas bin Ali, was keen-eyed and steadfast in his faith. He struggled with his brother Al-Hussein, did well, and passed away as a martyr."
His heroics will remain carved in the finest sands, and the palm trees will continue to sing his songs. These songs, born from a soul filled with love for Hussein, represented the most wonderful images of epics and horsemanship, so they were named and characterized as they were named and personified their owner in the highest degree of immortality: O soul, after Hussein, be easy and after him you will not be or be.
The banner that the Commander of the Faithful carried in all of the Messenger’s wars while laying the foundations of Islam was carried by his son Abbas bin Ali bin Abi Talib (peace be upon him) in Karbala as he wrote the most wonderful epic in the history of Islam under the leadership of his brother Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) for the sake of truth and belief. He wrote for the world and history, and generations are the most wonderful lessons of sacrifice and redemption, which will remain a beacon and example for every rebel against injustice and tyranny.
Al-Abbas felt proud that he is the son of the Commander of the Faithful, the hero of Islam and the greatest personality known to history after the Messenger of God. Al-Abbas felt proud to be a brother to Al-Hussein, the master of the youth of the people of Paradise, so he combined with his great personal qualities his sublime lineage. The honorable one is the bright branch that branched out from the honorable Doha. What soul is more honorable than this great soul? What altruism is like this? What soul is more healed than this soul? What nobility is greater than this nobility?
Oh, my lord... O Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas bin Ali... O you who established faith in your heart and embodied it in your stances, and who implanted the love of Hussein in your soul and demonstrated it in your defense of him. You struggled and did your best and sacrificed your soul for the religion of God, so God decreed for you eternity in both worlds and made you a door of His mercy. You are the door of needs from which exudes the sublime fragrance, and you are the hero of Al-Alqami, that river whose traces have been erased, because you are the immortal river from which generations draw meanings of dignity and pride. You are the bearer of the banner that will never fall, for it still and will continue to fly on your lofty edifice. You are the moon of Banu Hashim in your splendor, your glory, and your nobility.
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They tried to prevent him from getting water, fearing it would reach the family of the Prophet (peace and blessings of God be upon him).
He filled a large number of waterskins with water and delivered them to the thirsty people of Karbala.
The Martyrdom of Hazrat Abul Fazl Abbas: The Pinnacle of Loyalty and Sacrifice
After the martyrdom of the companions of Hazrat Seyyed al-Shahda, Hazrat Abul Fazl Abbas (peace be upon him), who was older than all his brothers and excelled in courage, strength, and beauty, went to Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) and asked for permission to engage in battle. Hazrat Imam Hussain (a.s.) said to him: "O brother, you are my standard-bearer, and my army will fall apart if you leave." Hazrat Abbas replied: "O honorable brother, my heart is filled with the grief of my brothers, companions, and friends, and I am tired of life. I have longed to meet the Almighty, and I have no more patience to see the suffering of my friends. I want to avenge the blood of my brothers and relatives and rid the opposition."
Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) then said: "If you are determined to embark on your journey to the hereafter, seek water for the children of the Ahl al-Bayt who are suffering from thirst." Abbas approached the enemy and said: "O shameless ones, if you consider us sinners, what sin do our women and children have? Have mercy on them and give them water."
When he saw that his advice did not affect the disbelievers, he returned to Imam Hussain. Many in the tents were thirsty. Hazrat Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) rode on a camel towards the Euphrates, and his brother Abbas accompanied him. The horsemen of Saad's army, cursed by God, attacked them, and a man from Bani Darem said to the army: "Stand between him and the Euphrates and do not let him access the water."
Hussain (peace be upon him) prayed: "O God, make this man thirsty." The impure man got angry and shot an arrow at him, which struck under his chin. Hussain (peace be upon him) pulled out the arrow, and his hands were filled with blood. He spilled the blood into the air and said: "By God! I complain to You about what these people do to the son and daughter of Your prophet." The army surrounded Abbas (peace be upon him) and he fought them alone.
When he reached the river, four thousand men who were guarding it surrounded him and shot at his noble body. That lion of courage showed his bravery and threw eighty of them to the ground, reaching the water. As he took a cup of water to drink, he remembered the thirst of Imam Hussain and his family. He poured the water out, filled the waterskin, and carried it on his shoulder. While he was fighting, he noticed the tents of the shrine. The infidels attacked him on the way, and he fought valiantly. Suddenly, Yazid bin Warqa ambushed him, and Hakam bin Tufail helped. They struck Abbas and cut off his right hand.
That lion of the grove of courage, the seedling of the garden of Imamate, drew the waterskin onto his left shoulder and held the sword in his left hand. He fought and marched until Hakam bin Tufail struck him again, severing his left hand. Abbas took the waterskin in his teeth and ran to bring water to the thirsty lips. Suddenly, an arrow hit the waterskin, spilling the water, and another arrow struck his chest, causing him to fall from his horse. He called out: "O brother, find me." When Abbas (peace be upon him) was martyred, Hazrat Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) said: "Now my back is broken and it is difficult for me to find a solution."
In another hadith, it is narrated from Imam Baqir (peace be upon him) that Zaid bin Raqad Jahani and Hakim bin Tufail Ta'i both participated in the killing of Abbas bin Ali. According to another narration, Imam Jafar Sadiq (peace be upon him) honored him with two wings instead of two hands, with which he flies in Paradise.
References
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Encyclopedia of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him), volume 4, pages 236-237 - Jala Al-Ayun, pages 678-680
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Nafs al-Mahmoum, pages 329-330 - Encyclopedia of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), volume 4, pages 224, Al-Mufid, Al-Irshad, volume 2, pages 113-114 - About him: The Shedding Tear, volume 4, pages 321-322 - Lessons, volume 2, pages 82 - Alam Al-Wari, page 248 - Shiite notables, volume 1, page 608, Lawa’ij Al-Ashjan, pages 182-183
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Encyclopedia of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him), volume 4, pages 236-237 - Jala Al-Ayun, pages 678-680
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Encyclopedia of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him), volume 4, page 231 - Al-Avalam, volume 17, pages 283-285; Muhammad bin Abi Talib, The Consolation of the Majlis, volume 2, pages 308-310 - Al-Dama'a al-Saqba, volume 4, pages 323-324 - Muthir Al-Ahzan, pages 83-84
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Encyclopedia of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him), volume 4, page 221 - Muqatil al-Talibeyin, page 56
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Encyclopedia of Imam al-Husayn (peace be upon him), volume 4, pages 236-237 - Majlesi, Jala Al-Ayoun, pages 678-680
When they saw Al-Abbas come forward they started running and hiding out of fear.
Abu Fazl Al Abbas:"O honorable brother, my heart is filled with the grief of my brothers, companions, and friends, and I am tired of life. I have longed to meet the Almighty, and I have no more patience to see the suffering of my friends. I want to avenge the blood of my brothers and relatives and rid the opposition."
He was observed fighting like a hero for quite some time, indicating he was not fatally affected by thirst.
Hazrat Abbas replied: "For a long time now, I have wanted to fight and show my courage."
Thirst and the death of Abbas (peace be upon him)
The mind remains perplexed whenever it thinks about the family or internal system of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and the good upbringing of his family and dependents. They, even in times of adversity, were more obedient to him than his shadows and more loyal to his commands. No group is as good as one that obeys its leader, even in times of hate or adversity. As it is said, “Obey your leader in what you hate, and do not disobey him in what you love.” Defeat would have been the furthest thing from such a group if they had not been afflicted by extreme hunger or thirst. Shimr, one of the enemies, exaggerated to his people about Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and his family, saying, “If water reaches them, they will annihilate you.”
Preventing the army of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) from water was his enemy’s strongest weapon against him. Patience with hunger is difficult, but patience with thirst is almost impossible, especially when their swords are in their right hands and water is just out of reach. They could hear the cries of their thirsty children, and among them was the brave boy, Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas (may God be pleased with him). The situation deeply affected him, arousing his emotions, so he approached his brother Al-Hussein (peace be upon him), asking for permission to fight, apologizing that he was fed up with life and hated staying.
Yes, life is precious, but it is cherished as long as it contains pleasures and joys. When life is devoid of these and becomes a condition of unbearable pain, sweet life turns bitter. In such a state, strong souls cannot console themselves and choose death over the suffering of waiting for death. Dying for the sake of defending is better and more honorable than waiting for death. Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) was in despair, and everyone with him shared that despair, drinking from the cup of sacrifice and embracing the path of martyrdom.
The Valor of Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas
At the forefront was Abu Al-Fadl, the eldest brother of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him), known for his perfection and beauty, the moon of Banu Hashim, the bearer of Al-Hussein's standard, and the pillar of his hopes for preserving his family. Therefore, it was difficult for Al-Hussein to allow him to face the enemies. He hoped that in dueling, Abbas would convey the proof, revive the offspring, and help sustain the family by securing water, as he had done previously. This made him the envy of the martyrs. Despite his wickedness, Shimr, one of the enemy leaders, offered security to Abbas and his brothers due to his relationship with their mother, Umm Al-Banin. Abbas was steadfast and dedicated to watering the family. Al-Hussein's response to Abbas's request was, “Then ask the people for a drink of water for these children.”
The Ultimate Sacrifice
Abbas bin Ali (peace be upon him) headed towards the armies stationed around the Sharia. They tried to prevent him from accessing water, encouraging each other to oppose and fight him. Al-Abbas continued to confront them, turning groups against each other, and reducing their numbers. They ambushed him behind a palm tree from Al-Ghadhariya, cutting off his right hand. He took up the sword with his left hand and persevered in defense, not caring about his injuries, reciting verses, and reminding people of the Ahl al-Bayt's lineage and their connection to the Messenger of God (peace and blessings be upon him and his family).
They ambushed him again from behind a palm tree, striking him on his left hand and cutting it off. He defended himself with his hands cut off, reminiscent of his uncle Jaafar al-Tayyar (may God be pleased with him). Then Dharmi approached him fearlessly, struck him with an iron pillar, and he fell, screaming and shouting, “Brother, catch up with your brother.” Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) reached him only after the crowds had overwhelmed him. In his final moments, Al-Hussein mourned him, saying, “Now my back is broken, my strategy has diminished, and my enemy gloats over me.”
They shot so much arrows at him that the sky turned dark..
"Stand between him and the Euphrates and do not let him access the water."
The Esteemed Personality of Abbas bin Ali, Peace Be Upon Him
The personality of Abbas bin Ali, peace be upon him, garnered significant attention from the Imams of Ahl al-Bayt due to his crucial role in the events of Karbala. His actions and heroism during these events earned him a place of prominence in the biographies and missionary projects of the Imams. Abbas, peace be upon him, is seen as a paragon of virtue, bravery, and loyalty, inspiring loyal devotees who seek a role model in their faith.
Historical Significance and Recognition
The character of Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, has been extensively documented by historians and investigators. His epic deeds and steadfastness have left an indelible mark on history, earning him a revered place in the hearts of believers. The Imams of Ahl al-Bayt, peace be upon them, frequently acknowledged his exemplary personality, shedding light on his virtues and his pivotal role in the Husseini mission.
Testimonies from the Imams
From Imam Ali, Peace Be Upon Him
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, placed great emphasis on the scholarly and virtuous upbringing of his son Abbas. He recognized Al-Abbas's dedication to knowledge and praised his character, indicating that Abbas was prepared from an early age for the significant role he would play in the Husseini project. This preparation was crucial for the success of the mission led by Imam Hussein, peace be upon him.
From Imam Zain Al-Abidin, Peace Be Upon Him
Imam Zain Al-Abidin, peace be upon him, frequently mentioned Al-Abbas and praised his unparalleled rank and position. He wept for him, cared for his son, and acknowledged the greatness of Al-Abbas's sacrifices. In one narration, Imam Zain Al-Abidin compared the martyrdom of Al-Abbas to the tragic losses of Hamza in the Battle of Uhud and Ja'far in Mu'tah, highlighting the profound grief these events caused.
From Imam Jaafar Al-Sadiq, Peace Be Upon Him
Imam Jaafar Al-Sadiq, peace be upon him, described Al-Abbas as having penetrating insight and solid faith. He praised Al-Abbas's unwavering support for Imam Hussein and his heroic performance in jihad. This insight and faith enabled Al-Abbas to fully comprehend and support the divine project of Imam Hussein, leading to his ultimate sacrifice.
From Imam Al-Hujjah, May God Hasten His Appearance
Imam Al-Hujjah, in his salutations to Al-Abbas, emphasized the qualities of consolation, redemption, and sacrifice that defined Al-Abbas's personality. He highlighted the loyalty and protection that Al-Abbas offered to his brother Imam Hussein, ultimately sacrificing his life in the process.
Conclusion
The life and legacy of Al-Abbas bin Ali, peace be upon him, serve as a testament to his exceptional character and unwavering faith. His actions in Karbala, his dedication to his brother, and his profound knowledge and insight have left a lasting impact on Islamic history and continue to inspire believers worldwide. His revered status is reflected in the words and praises of the Imams, underscoring his significance as a symbol of loyalty, courage, and devotion.
References:
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Asrar al-Shahada by Al-Darbandi, stone edition: p. 324
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Bihar Al-Anwar: Part 22, p. 274
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Revising the article, part 2, p. 128
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Al-Bihar, vol. 45, p. 65
The army surrounded Abbas (peace be upon him) and he fought them alone.
As he took a cup of water to drink, he remembered the thirst of Imam Hussain and his family. He poured the water out, filled the waterskin, and carried it on his shoulder.
The Lion of Banu Hashim: Al-Abbas ibn Ali
Al-Abbas, peace be upon him, was the son of the Commander of the Faithful, Ali ibn Abi Talib, and the brother of the Master of Martyrs, Imam Hussein. On the day of Ashura, he served as the standard-bearer, embodying the qualities of valor and loyalty. The name Al-Abbas in Arabic means "the lion of the forest from which other lions flee." His mother, Fatima Al-Kalabiya, later known as Umm Al-Banin, married Ali after the martyrdom of Fatima Al-Zahra.
Early Life and Family
Al-Abbas was born on the 4th of Shaban in the year 26 AH in Medina. He was the eldest son of Umm Al-Banin and grew up under the care of his father, Imam Ali, until the martyrdom of his father when Al-Abbas was fourteen years old. At the time of the battle of Karbala, he was 34 years old. He was known by the nicknames Abu al-Fadl and Abu Fadil, and his titles included Qamar Bani Hashim (the Moon of Banu Hashim), Saqi al-Atashi (the Water-Bearer for the Thirsty), Bearer of the Standard of Hussein, and many others.
Al-Abbas married Lubabah bint Ubayd Allah ibn Al-Abbas and had two sons, Ubayd Allah and Al-Fadl. Some sources also mention two other sons named Muhammad and Al-Qasim.
Attributes and Responsibilities
Al-Abbas was tall, handsome, and unmatched in courage. He was called Qamar Bani Hashim for his beauty and grace. As the standard-bearer for Hussein on the day of Ashura, he was responsible for guarding the tents and fetching water for the children and families. His presence brought stability to the camp, and his bravery was evident as he fought alongside his brother Hussein.
On the day of Ashura, Al-Abbas's three brothers were martyred before him. He then asked Imam Hussein for permission to fight, but Hussein asked him to fetch water for the thirsty children instead. Al-Abbas bravely approached the Euphrates, filled the waterskin, and on his way back, he was attacked, his hands were cut off, and he was martyred. Despite his thirst, he did not drink the water, showing his selflessness and devotion to his brother Hussein.
Altruism and Martyrdom
Al-Abbas was a symbol of altruism, loyalty, and dedication. When he entered the Euphrates, though he was very thirsty, he did not drink because of his brother Hussein's thirst. His commitment to his faith and family was evident in his actions and words. When his right hand was cut off, he recited, "By God, if you cut off my right hand, I will never stop defending my religion and the truthful Imam, the son of the pure and faithful Prophet."
Legacy and Reverence
The martyrdom of Al-Abbas left a profound impact on Imam Hussein, who mourned his loss deeply. Al-Abbas was buried near the Al-Alqami River, and his shrine remains separate from that of Hussein due to the location of their final moments.
Imam Al-Sajjad, peace be upon him, praised Al-Abbas for his loyalty and sacrifice, noting that God replaced his severed hands with wings, like those of Jaafar al-Tayyar, allowing him to fly with the angels in Paradise. Imam Al-Mahdi, peace be upon him, also revered Al-Abbas, greeting him with honor and acknowledging his sacrifices.
Al-Abbas's status is further highlighted in his visitation prayers, which reflect his obedience to God, His Messenger, and the Imams. His legacy as a paragon of virtue, courage, and loyalty continues to inspire and be venerated by millions.
Final Reflections
Al-Abbas's life and martyrdom serve as a testament to his unwavering faith, courage, and loyalty. He remains a beacon of sacrifice and dedication, whose virtues are celebrated and emulated by those who honor his memory.
They ambushed him behind a palm tree like cowards because they would never be able to confront him face to face.
Al-Abbas continued to confront them, turning groups against each other, and reducing their numbers. They ambushed him behind a palm tree from Al-Ghadhariya, cutting off his right hand. He took up the sword with his left hand and persevered in defense, not caring about his injuries, reciting verses, and reminding people of the Ahl al-Bayt's lineage and their connection to the Messenger of God (peace and blessings be upon him and his family).
"The Final Moments and Sacrifice of Hazrat Abul-Fadl Abbas (Peace Be Upon Him)"
In view of the martyrdom of Hazrat Sayyidul-Shahdah and Hazrat Abul-Fadl Abbas (peace be upon him), with all his concern, Hazrat Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) departed and gave him permission to go.
Hazrat Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) said to him: "Yes, Brother, you are the standard-bearer, and without you, our army will fall apart."
Hazrat Abbas replied: "Yes, I know, but for a long time now, I have wanted to fight and show my courage."
Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) said: "If you must go, then at least try to bring water for the children."
Abbas said: "I will go and try." He went to the river to fetch water. As he did, he was attacked and fought bravely. Despite his efforts, he was injured and could not bring the water back.
He returned, heavily wounded, and fell to the ground. Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) ran to him and held him. Abbas said: "Forgive me, Brother, I could not bring the water."
Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) said: "Now my back is broken, and my resourcefulness has diminished."
When Abbas was killed, Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) said: "Now, I have lost my strength and support."
According to Hazrat Imam Baqir (peace be upon him), Zayd bin Raqqad Juhani and Hakim bin Tufail were involved in killing Abbas bin Ali.
According to Hazrat Imam Jaafar Sadiq (peace be upon him), God will reward Hazrat Abbas for his sacrifice and bravery.
"The Final Moments and Sacrifice of Hazrat Abul-Fadl Abbas (Peace Be Upon Him)"
The mind remains perplexed when thinking about the family of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and the excellent upbringing of his family and dependents. Even in times of adversity, they were more obedient to him than his shadows, and no command was as good as their obedience. I am not exaggerating when I say: “Obey the leader in what you dislike and do not disobey him in what you love.”
Defeat would have been impossible for such a group if they had not been afflicted by extreme hunger and thirst. Shimr exaggerated to his people about Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and his family: “If water reaches them, they will annihilate you.” Thus, preventing Al-Hussein’s (peace be upon him) army from accessing water was his enemy’s strongest weapon. Whoever finds patience with hunger difficult, finds patience with thirst impossible. The strength of Hashem, their swords in their right hands, and the sight of water, while hearing the cries of their thirsty and sick children, affected Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas deeply. He approached his brother Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) asking for permission to defend, apologizing that he was fed up with life and hated staying.
Yes, life is delicious and desirable, but one only loves it as long as it contains pleasures. If it is devoid of those pleasures and filled with unbearable pain, the sweet life becomes bitter. Strong souls, unable to console themselves, may choose death over an unbearable life. Dying to defend is better than dying while waiting for death. Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) and his companions were desperate and ready for sacrifice.
At the forefront was Abu Al-Fadl, the eldest brother of Al-Hussein (peace be upon him), known for his perfection and beauty, the moon of Banu Hashim, the flag-bearer of Al-Hussein, and the pillar of hope for preserving his family. It was difficult for Al-Hussein to allow him to face the enemies, but he hoped that Abbas would bring water for the family, as he had done before.
Despite his misfortune, the enemy leader (Shimr Al-Kalabi) offered security to Abbas and his brothers due to his relationship with their mother, Umm Al-Banin. Abbas, determined, sought permission to fetch water for the children.
Abbas bin Ali (peace be upon him) headed towards the enemy stationed around the river. They tried to prevent him from getting water, fearing it would reach the family of the Prophet (peace and blessings of God be upon him). Abbas fought bravely, turning the tide against the enemy, until they ambushed him and cut off his right hand. He continued to fight with his left hand, reciting verses and reminding the enemy of the Ahl al-Bayt’s lineage. Another ambush cost him his left hand. Defending himself like his uncle Jaafar al-Tayyar (may God be pleased with him), he fought on, hands severed. It was as if the enemy had cut off Al-Hussein’s (peace be upon him) hands.
Then Dharmi struck him with an iron pillar, causing him to fall while shouting, “Brother, catch up with your brother.” Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) mourned him, saying: “Now my back is broken, my strength diminished, and my enemies rejoice over my misfortune.”
The Offer of False Security to Al-Abbas and His Response
Before the ninth day of Muharram, Shimr bin Dhi Al-Jawshan offered safety to Al-Abbas and his brothers if they abandoned their brother, Al-Hussein (peace be upon him), due to their mother’s kinship. He called out loudly:
"Where are our sister’s sons? Where are Al-Abbas and his brothers?"
They ignored him, but Al-Hussein (peace be upon him) said, "Answer him, even if he is a sinner."
They replied, "What do you want?"
Shimr said, "My nephews, you are safe. Do not kill yourselves with Hussein and pledge allegiance to Yazid."
Al-Abbas responded, "May God curse you and your security! Do you think we would abandon the son of the Messenger of God for safety with the cursed Yazid?"
Shimr’s offer was insincere. He thought the sons of Ali (peace be upon him) would abandon their brother for safety. But Al-Abbas and his brothers, raised with strong faith and principles, would never forsake Imam Hussein (peace be upon him).
Imam Hussein gathered his family and companions the night before his death and told them the time of his martyrdom was near. He gave them permission to leave, as the Umayyads sought only him. However, his companions showed unwavering loyalty. Saeed bin Abdullah Al-Hanafi said:
"By God, we will not leave you until God knows we have fulfilled our duty to protect you. Even if I were killed, revived, and killed again seventy times, I would not leave you. How could I? It is only one death, leading to eternal dignity."
Zuhair bin Al-Qayn echoed this sentiment, wishing to be killed a thousand times if it meant protecting Imam Hussein (peace be upon him).
These statements highlighted their deep faith and commitment, showing they valued honor and martyrdom over life.
References:
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The killing of Hussein, p. 237.
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Nafs al-Mahmoum, p. 242-243.
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Nafs al-Mahmoum, p. 242.
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Nafs al-Mahmoum, p. 243.
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The killing of Hussein, p. 233.