The Ahlulbayt Series
About the Series
This art series delves into the profound tragedies and celebrations of and relating to the noble family of the Holy Prophet Muhammad- peace be upon them. Each artwork within this series aims to capture the emotional weight, resilience, and enduring memory of these sorrowful events, with a particular focus on the heartwrenching events during the Tragedy of Karbala.
Ghadeer Khum
"Ghadeer Khum holds great significance in Islamic history as a pivotal event that occurred during the final pilgrimage of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Prophet (SWT)signifies the establishment of the institution of Wilayah (leadership) and the continuation of the Prophetic mission beyond the Prophet Muhammad's physical existence as he raises Imam Ali's hand to instate him for the leadership role in front of thousands of people coming back from Hajj.
They stand on the cargo that was taken by the travelers to elevate the Prophet(SWT) and Imam Ali (AS) so that everyone could hear and see the event.
The Arabic writing translates to:
"The Prophet (SWT) says: Ali is the mawla of whom I am mawla."
For More information about Gheeder Khum Check out
Sunni Sources:
Al-Mustadrak, by al-Hakim, v3, pp 169,371
Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, on the authority of Ilyas al-Dhabbi
Muruj al-Dhahab, by al-Mas'udi, v4, p321
Majma' al-Zawa'id, by al-Haythami, v9, p107
Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, v4, p370
- Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, v1, p119, see also v5, p366
- Khasa'is, by al-Nisa'i, pp 21,103, narrated similar to above on the authority of three others: Umayah Ibn Sa'd, Zaid Ibn yathigh, and
Sa'id Ibn Wahab.
Oh Fatima Al-Zahra!
Fatima Al - Zahraa (AS) is the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, Mohammed (P.B.U.H). her mother is Khadija bint Walid. After Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) passed away, Lady Fatimah (AS) Zahra cried and grieved for him continuously. The pain of losing her beloved father and mentor was only augmented by the devious plots which defied the commands of God’s Messenger. Lady Fatimah (AS) rebuked the mischievous planners in a segment of her famous speech, when she said,
“…the thorns of hypocrisy have appeared on you! The garb of faith has worn out, those of silent perversion have spoken, those of the least merit have come to the forefront and the camel of the falsifiers has growled…”iv
The oppressors in power did not accept Imam Ali’s (AS) refusal to pledge allegiance to them – they wanted the credibility of Imam Ali (AS) on their side. They sought to force a pledge of allegiance from him. According to several historical accounts, the same group that was busy conspiring against Imam Ali (AS), while he prepared the Prophet’s (pbuh) dead body attacked the house of Lady Fatimah Zahra (p). When Lady Fatimah (p) refused to open the door for such men, they threatened to burn the door down. A simple statement made by the leader of the gang gives a glimpse of the terror that followed.
Someone called out,
“But Fatimah is in there…”
Then came the dreadful shout of disregard,
“So what!”
Next, the intruders barged in by force, squeezing the blessed Lady Zahra (AS) between the door and the wall… As a result of this event, her child, Muhsin, was aborted, and her rib was broken. Ultimately, the tragic episode led to Lady Fatimah’s (AS) martyrdom.
In accordance with Lady Fatimah (AS)’s wishes, Imam Ali (AS) buried her secretly in the darkness of night. The Lady of Light did not want the oppressors to walk in her funeral. To this day, the exact location of Lady Fatimah’s (p) grave is unknown.
Sunni Sources
(Al-Musannaf – Kitabul Maghazi 8:572)
Ansaabul Ashraaf 1:586
Al-Imamah was-siyasah 13&12
TARIKHUL TABARI 2:443
Al-‘Iqdul Farid 4:93
Al-Amwaal 144
Al-Wafi bil Wafiyyat 6:17
Sharh Nahjul Balagha li-ibn Abi Al-Hadid 2:46
Mizan Al-I’tidal 3:459
Abdul Fattah Abdul Maqsood: Ali bin Abi Taleb 4:276
Al-Imamah wal khilafah 160-161
- History of Tabari (Arabic), v1, pp 1118-1120
- History of Ibn Athir, v2, p325
- al-Isti’ab, by Ibn Abd al-Barr, v3, p975
- Tarikh al-Kulafa, by Ibn Qutaybah, v1, p20
- al-Imamah wal-Siyasah, by Ibn Qutaybah, v1, pp 19-2
More information and sources can be found:
https://www.al-islam.org/shiite-encyclopedia/attacking-house-fatimah-sa
https://imam-us.org/martyrdom-anniversary-sayyida-fatimah-al-zahra-p
Eternal Farewell
The painting "Eternal Farewell" captures an intensely emotional and profound moment between Imam Ali(AS) and his beloved wife, Fatima Zahra(AS). This scene portrays the last goodbye of Fatima Zahra as her soul ascends to the heavens while Imam Ali reaches out to embrace her one last time. The falling petals represent the hardships that they face in their lifetime and how they still are with each other regardless. Additionally, some of the petals represent the fatal injuries that led to their deaths- for Imam Ali(AS), a petal is seen on his head, where he was struck in sujood, and for Fatima Al-Zahara (AS), it can be seen on her rib, where the nail crushed her ribs and leading to the miscarriage of her unborn son Mushsan. The ten gleaming stars in the background represent the years that they were married in this world. Lastly, the wisps around Imam Ali (AS ) represent how part of him left this world with his beloved wife and that he was never truly whole again after her death.
For more information, check out:
https://www.al-islam.org/media/death-and-funeral-bibi-fatima-al-zahra
The Martyrdom of Ali Akbar- Mirror of the Prophet
Ali Akbar was the eldest son of Imam Hussain (a.s) and bore the closest resemblance to the Prophet Muhammad (sawa) in both appearance and personality. Many reports tell us that when the Ahlul Bayt missed the Prophet, they would look at Ali Akbar. His presence was a source of solace and a reminder of the Prophet’s virtues and character.
By the time Ali Akbar faced his ultimate test, all of Imam Hussain's companions had been martyred, leaving only his closest family members to defend their cause. Recognizing the dire situation, Ali Akbar asked his father for permission to enter the battlefield. Despite the heart-wrenching nature of the request, Imam Hussain consented, knowing the bravery and steadfastness of his son.
Before Ali Akbar departed for the battlefield, Imam Hussain turned to Ali Akbar's mother, Laila, asking her to pray for their son’s return, if only for a brief moment. Laila's supplications were filled with the hope of seeing her beloved son one last time. As Ali Akbar rode out, his bravery and striking resemblance to the Prophet left a profound impact on both friends and foes.
After an intense battle, Ali Akbar managed to return to the camp, albeit briefly. He embraced his father with tears flowing from both their eyes. In this moment of intense emotion and fatigue, Ali Akbar asked his father for water. Imam Hussain, with a heavy heart and tears in his eyes, responded, “Return back to the battlefield, and I hope that before the night comes forth, your grandfather shall hand you a cup with an overflowing drink, consuming which you shall never ever feel thirsty.”
Ali Akbar returned to the battlefield with renewed determination, inspired by his father's words and the promise of eternal quenching from his grandfather, the Prophet Muhammad (sawa). He fought valiantly, demonstrating unparalleled courage and unwavering faith. Ultimately, Ali Akbar was struck down by the overwhelming forces of Yazid's army.
Imam Hussain rushed to his fallen son, cradling his lifeless body. With profound grief, he mourned the loss of Ali Akbar, a symbol of the Prophet’s legacy and the embodiment of the virtues they held dear. Ali Akbar's martyrdom is remembered as a testament to the profound sacrifices made by Imam Hussain's family in the pursuit of justice and righteousness, serving as a poignant reminder of their unwavering faith and the ultimate cost of their devotion.
Sources:
Nafsul mahmum
https://www.al-islam.org/maqtal-al-husayn-sayyid-abd-al-razzaq-al-muqarram/martrydom-ahl-al-bayt
Oh, Abbas!
The Martyrdom of Imam Abbas
Imam Abbas, the brother of Imam Hussain (a.s), served as the flagbearer of the army during the Battle of Karbala. Renowned for his bravery, loyalty, and unwavering faith, he held a special place among the companions of Imam Hussain. Due to his maternal relation to the Umayyads, he was offered a pardon to leave the battlefield, which he steadfastly refused. His loyalty to his brother and their righteous cause was unshakable.
The cries of the children for water deeply moved Imam Abbas. The scorching heat and the unbearable thirst of the children compelled him to ask his brother for permission to attempt to break through the blockade surrounding the Euphrates River. Imam Hussain granted his permission, and Imam Abbas set out on his mission.
Riding his horse with unmatched courage, Imam Abbas reached the river and held the water in his hands. Despite his own thirst, he did not drink, for how could he when the children of his brother were suffering? He filled a waterskin and began his return to the camp, determined to quench the children's thirst.
However, the enemies surrounded him on his way back. They severed his arms and shot arrows at him. Despite his injuries, Imam Abbas continued to protect the waterskin with his remaining strength. Ultimately, he was struck down and martyred. In his final moments, Imam Abbas's selflessness and devotion to his family and faith shone brightly.
Upon hearing of Imam Abbas's martyrdom, Imam Hussain (a.s) expressed his profound grief, saying, "Now my back has bent, and my maneuver has lessened" (Biharul Anwar). The loss of Imam Abbas was a devastating blow to Imam Hussain, both strategically and emotionally.
Sayyida Zainab's Love for Her Brother Abbas
Sayyida Zainab, the sister of Imam Hussain and Imam Abbas, shared a deep bond of love and respect with her brothers. Her admiration for Abbas was immense, recognizing him not just as a sibling, but as a pillar of strength and loyalty. Sayyida Zainab often looked up to Abbas for his unwavering bravery and the steadfast support he provided to their family.
On the day of Ashura, Sayyida Zainab's heart ached seeing the immense sacrifices being made. Her love for Abbas was evident in her eyes and her prayers. She witnessed Abbas's heroic efforts to fetch water for the thirsty children and his ultimate martyrdom. The sight of her brother's lifeless body filled her with profound sorrow, yet she remained resilient, drawing strength from her faith and the memory of Abbas's valor.
The Slaughter of Innocence- Ali Alasgar
Ali Asghar, the infant child of Imam Hussain (a.s), is remembered as the youngest martyr of Karbala. After many of his companions and family members had been killed, Imam Hussain held up his six-month-old baby to plead with the army of Yazid (LA) for water for his child. His appeal was an effort to awaken their humanity and mercy, highlighting the innocence and vulnerability of the infant.
Dissension arose within the ranks of Umar ibn Sa'ad's army, as some soldiers were moved by the sight and considered granting the request. However, Umar (LA) was concerned about this potential wavering in his troops. To swiftly quell the situation, he ordered Hurmala bin Kahil (LA), a skilled archer, to resolve the dispute. Hurmala (LA) then shot a three-pronged arrow into the infant's neck, killing him instantly in his father's arms.
Devastated but unwavering in his faith, Imam Hussain collected his son's blood in his hands and threw it into the air, declaring, "Every hardship is easy upon me when Allah is the Beholder." This act symbolized his complete submission to Allah's will, even in the face of unimaginable suffering.
Imam Hussain then buried his son with his own hands, mourning the tragic loss but remaining steadfast in his mission. The martyrdom of Ali Asghar stands as a poignant symbol of the innocence that was sacrificed on the day of Ashura, highlighting the cruelty of Yazid's forces and the profound faith and resilience of Imam Hussain and his family.
For more information, check out:
https://www.al-islam.org/media/story-ali-al-asghar
Nafas al-Mahmum fi Musibah Sayyidina al-Husayn al-Madhlum
نَفَسُ المَهموم فی مصیبة سیّدنا الحسین المظلوم
Zuljanah
During the Battle of Karbala, Imam Hussein and his small group of followers faced a much larger and ruthless army of Yazid ibn Muawiya, the Umayyad caliph. The battle took place in the desert of Karbala, located in present-day Iraq. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Imam Hussein(AS)and his followers valiantly fought for justice and the preservation of the true teachings of Islam.
Among the significant figures involved in this event was Imam Hussein's loyal and beloved horse named Zuljanah. Zuljanah was known for its loyalty and devotion to Imam Hussein, and it played a crucial role in the battle. According to historical accounts, Zuljanah remained steadfast in the face of the chaos, carrying Imam Hussein during the intense fighting, and represented loyalty and sacrifice.
Ultimately, Imam Hussein and his companions were martyred in the Battle of Karbala. Zuljanah also brought back the news of the Imam's death to the camps of the women and children. when they saw that the horse had no rider.
This tragic event is commemorated by Shia Muslims every year during the month of Muharram, particularly on the day of Ashura, which marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his followers.
For more information, check out:
https://www.al-islam.org/media/what-do-we-know-about-dhul-janah-horse-imam-husayn
The Prophet's (SWT) Beloved
The Prophet Muhammad (sawa) held a profound and exceptional love for his grandsons, Imam Hasan and Imam Hussain (a.s). His affection for them was not only as a grandfather but also as a messenger who understood the significant roles they would play in the future of Islam. Many authentic hadiths and traditions capture the Prophet's deep bond with Hussain, often referring to him as "Sayyid Shabab Ahl al-Jannah" (the master of the youth of Paradise) and saying, "Hussain is from me, and I am from Hussain."
Every grandfather dotes on his grandson, but the Prophet Muhammad (sawa) was no ordinary grandfather. According to the Holy Quran, "He (Muhammad) does not speak out of (his own) desire" (Quran 53:3). On many occasions, the Prophet indicated the very high status of Imam Hussain. For example, in the well-known hadith, "Hasan and Hussain are the masters of the youth of Paradise" (Sunan Ibn Majah Vol. 1, Book 1, Hadith 118). In the famous hadith of Al-Kisa, Imam Hussain is included among the people that the verse of purification was revealed about: "Allah only desires to keep away the uncleanness from you, O people of the House! and to purify you a (thorough) purifying" (Quran 33:33). In the hadith of Thaqalayn, which the Prophet often repeated, he said, "Verily, I have left behind two precious things amongst you, one of which is greater than the other: the Book of Allah, the Exalted, and my ‘itrah (kindred). So watch out how you treat these two after me, for verily they will not separate from each other until they come back to me by the side of the Pond" (Narrated by Abu Nasr Ahmad ibn Suhayl, the faqih of Bukhara).
The Prophet (sawa) was fully aware of what would befall his grandson in Karbala and would often weep over it. He would relate to close family members and companions the fate of the Imam and his family.
One poignant hadith reflects the Prophet’s sorrow and his deep connection to Hussain’s future martyrdom:
"Be patient, O Abu Abdillah (the kunya of his son Hussain), be patient, O Abu Abdillah, by the banks of the Euphrates." Nujayy said, “What is this?” Ali (a.s) replied, “I entered upon the Prophet (sawa) one day while his eyes were shedding tears. I said, ‘What causes your eyes to shed tears?’ He said, ‘Rather, Jibreel was here earlier and he told me that Hussain will be killed by the bank of the Euphrates. He [Jibreel] said, ‘Do you want me to provide you a sample from his soil [where he will be killed] so you can smell it?’ and I said ‘Yes.’ So he extended his hand and took a grip from the soil and gave it to me, and I couldn’t help my eyes from filling with tears'" (Recorded by Ahmad, vol. 1, p. 85).
Expressions of Grief and Condemnation
Witnessing the brutal slaughter of Hussain and his companions, the Prophet Muhammad (sawa) would undoubtedly express his deep anguish and grief. He would condemn the actions of those who perpetrated such atrocities, recognizing them as a severe betrayal of the principles of justice, mercy, and compassion that he had tirelessly preached.
From these narrations, we see the high status Imam Hussain has and how much the Prophet cared for him. The Prophet Muhammad’s (sawa) reaction to the martyrdom of his grandson Hussain would be one of profound sorrow and heartbreak. He would mourn deeply for the immense suffering and sacrifice endured by Hussain and his family. Through his grief, the Prophet would remind the Muslim ummah of the importance of justice, sacrifice, and steadfastness in faith, ensuring that the legacy of Karbala remains a guiding light for generations to come.
The Tears of Karbala
This painting centers around Imam Zain al-Abadeen, the sole surviving son of Imam Hussain, who bore witness to the horrors of Karbala. The painting depicts him in seclusion as well as despair as he goes back to bury his father, brothers, and uncle, as well as the 72 companions that were murdered in Karbala. As he returns, the burning memories of the events that befell his holy family are re-ignited.
Depicted in the painting are the deaths of Imam Al-Hussain (AS), Imam Al- Abbas, Ali Alasgar(AS), and the burning of the womens tents after Imam Al-Hussain was murdered. And behind Sayyeda Zaniab (AS) receiving the news of Al-Hussains death from his horse that went back to camp. In the chaos and fire, there are also depictions of the Imams' and companions' heads- severed and lifted on spears. And Lastly, the innocent son of Hussain(AS) Ali Alasgar being hosted to the heavens as he was martyred, both innocent and thirsty at the age of 6 months.
For more information About the tragedy of Karbala, check out
Ruqayya al-Kubra
Ruqayya bint Imam Hussein, also known as Ruqayya al-Kubra, was the daughter of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and the great-granddaughter of Imam Ali and Fatimah, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad. Her life is intertwined with the tragic events of the Battle of Karbala.During the Battle of Karbala, the family of Imam Hussein, including his infant daughter Ruqayya, suffered immensely. The battle culminated in the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his loyal companions. Following the battle, the surviving women and children, including Ruqayya, were taken captive by Yazid's forces.Ruqayya's story is one of great sorrow and endurance. She, along with the other captives, endured a long and arduous journey from Karbala to the court of Yazid in Damascus. The hardships and emotional trauma she experienced at such a tender age are unimaginable. Her innocence and the injustice inflicted upon her family moved many to tears.
Depicted in this painting is Ruqayya, the daughter of Imam Al-Hussain(AS), who is shown in the dark alone after her father, brothers, uncles, and cousins' death. She is clinging to the lit lantern, which symbolically represents he father, who is known metaphorically as the "candle" because he is:
the Light in the Darkness: Just as a candle provides illumination in the darkness, Imam Hussein is seen as a beacon of light in times of moral and spiritual darkness. His stand at the Battle of Karbala is considered a shining example of unwavering commitment to justice and truth in the face of oppression and tyranny.
Guidance: A candle is a symbol of guidance, and Imam Hussein is revered for the guidance he provides through his steadfast adherence to the principles of Islam and his willingness to sacrifice everything, including his life, to uphold those principles.
Sacrificial Flame: A candle, when lit, consumes itself to provide light and warmth to others. Similarly, Imam Hussein is seen as one who sacrificed his life for the sake of preserving the true teachings of Islam and for the betterment of the Muslim community.
Additionally, She holds a water sash that she asked her uncle Abbas to get as her final request to him as she was withering from thirst after three days in the desert with no water. Water is seen flowing out the sash, as that was her uncle's farewell when he was killed in his quest for water.
Her face is distorted due to the fact she felt as if her whole identity was left with her father, as she was estimated to have only been two years old at the time of Karbala and at her death.
For more information about Ruqqayah Bint Al-Hussein, check out:
***For any questions regarding these works or the stories and sources provided, feel free to contact me at narjesfinearts@gmail.com! I would be more than happy to explain or clarify!***