Zainul AbideenZainul Abideen and Politics of the Time and Politics of the Time

By A.S. Hashim. MDBy A.S. Hashim. MD

In this slide show:In this slide show:

Discussed in this Slide Show:Discussed in this Slide Show:Zainul Abideen arriving at MedinaZainul Abideen arriving at MedinaYazid’s AtrocitiesYazid’s AtrocitiesPlan of Zainul AbideenPlan of Zainul AbideenRevolt in MedinaRevolt in MedinaZainul Abideen helps MarwanZainul Abideen helps MarwanIbn Zubair's RevoltIbn Zubair's RevoltContemporary to 7 Khalifas Contemporary to 7 Khalifas Marwan then Abdul Malik as the KhalifasMarwan then Abdul Malik as the KhalifasAl‑Tawwaboon, Revolt In IraqAl‑Tawwaboon, Revolt In IraqAl‑Mukhtar, Revolt In IraqAl‑Mukhtar, Revolt In IraqAbdul Malik and Ibn ZubairAbdul Malik and Ibn ZubairAl‑Hajjaj TerrorizesAl‑Hajjaj TerrorizesMuslim empire before Benu Umayya RuleExpansion during Benu Umayya RuleExpansion during Benu Umayya Rule

(Sermon 239, p 357)(Sermon 239, p 357)

Imam Ali refers to Ahlul Bayt by saying:Imam Ali refers to Ahlul Bayt by saying:

، �ج�ه�ل� ال و�م�و�ت ،� �م �ع�ل ال �ش ع�ي ، هم� �ج�ه�ل� ال و�م�و�ت ،� �م �ع�ل ال �ش ع�ي هم� ، �م�ه�م� ل ع� ع�ن� �مهم� ل ح� م� ك �ر ب خ� ، ي �م�ه�م� ل ع� ع�ن� �مهم� ل ح� م� ك �ر ب خ� ، ي �ط�ق�ه�م� م�ن � �م ح�ك ع�ن� هم� ، و�ص�م�ت �ط�ق�ه�م� م�ن � �م ح�ك ع�ن� هم� و�ص�م�ت

ف�يه�، �فون� �ل ت �خ� ي � و�ال �ح�ق( ال �فون� خ�ال ي � ف�يه�، ال �فون� �ل ت �خ� ي � و�ال �ح�ق( ال �فون� خ�ال ي � ال �ج �ئ و�و�ال ،� �م ال ��س� اال �م د�ع�ائ �ج هم� �ئ و�و�ال ،� �م ال ��س� اال �م د�ع�ائ �، هم� �ص�ام �ع�ت �، اال �ص�ام �ع�ت اال�ه� �ص�اب ن ف�ي �ح�ق7 ال ع�اد� �ه�م� �ه� ب �ص�اب ن ف�ي �ح�ق7 ال ع�اد� �ه�م� اح�، ، ب �ز� اح�و�ان �ز� مق�ام�ه�، و�ان ع�ن� �اط�ل �ب مق�ام�ه�، ال ع�ن� �اط�ل �ب ال

�ه� �ت �ب م�ن ع�ن� ه ان �س� ل �ق�ط�ع� �ه� و�ان �ت �ب م�ن ع�ن� ه ان �س� ل �ق�ط�ع� �ة ، ، و�ان و�ع�اي ع�ق�ل� الد<ين� وا �ة ع�ق�ل و�ع�اي ع�ق�ل� الد<ين� وا ع�ق�ل�ة �ةو�ر�ع�اي و�ر�ع�اي

�ة، و�ر�و�اي م�اع س� ع�ق�ل� � �ة، ال و�ر�و�اي م�اع س� ع�ق�ل� � ال ، Bير� �ث ك � �م �ع�ل ال و�اة� ر �ن( ، ف�إ Bير� �ث ك � �م �ع�ل ال و�اة� ر �ن( ف�إ

Bيل� ق�ل �ه ع�ات �يلB و�ر ق�ل �ه ع�ات ..و�ر

Ali Refers to Ahlul Bayt:Ali Refers to Ahlul Bayt:

They [Ahlul Bayt] are the life for [Divine] knowledge and the death They [Ahlul Bayt] are the life for [Divine] knowledge and the death keel to ignorance.keel to ignorance.

Their forbearance tells you of their knowledge, and their behavior Their forbearance tells you of their knowledge, and their behavior about their integrityabout their integrity

Their silence tells you of their wisdom…..Their silence tells you of their wisdom…..

Ahlul Bayt understood the correct spirit of Islam, attentively and Ahlul Bayt understood the correct spirit of Islam, attentively and painstakingly.painstakingly.

They carried Islam's precepts into practice. And all this was not by They carried Islam's precepts into practice. And all this was not by heresy or from narrators.heresy or from narrators.

Lo! The narrators of knowledge are many but those who truly Lo! The narrators of knowledge are many but those who truly understand it are only few. understand it are only few.

Zainul Abideen arriving at MedinaZainul Abideen arriving at Medina

The people of Medina heard the devastating news of the events of The people of Medina heard the devastating news of the events of Karbala as related by:Karbala as related by:

Imam Zainul Abideen, Imam Zainul Abideen, his aunt Zainab, his aunt Zainab, and others who broke the news to the loved ones.  and others who broke the news to the loved ones. 

The family was devastated, women cried in grief, The family was devastated, women cried in grief, and out of anguish, Zainul Abideen's uncle fainted, the news was too and out of anguish, Zainul Abideen's uncle fainted, the news was too much for him to bear. much for him to bear. The heart wrenching news of Karbala spread fast to friends and The heart wrenching news of Karbala spread fast to friends and relatives, and all of Medina went into mourning. relatives, and all of Medina went into mourning. They felt very guilty that Al‑Husain, the beloved by Muhammad, had They felt very guilty that Al‑Husain, the beloved by Muhammad, had his flesh torn by the swords, and the severance of his head from his his flesh torn by the swords, and the severance of his head from his body.body.

Medina’s Reaction to Karbala news Medina’s Reaction to Karbala news

The people of Medina were in shock, speechless and The people of Medina were in shock, speechless and feeling very guilty.  feeling very guilty.  This simmering feeling grew for some time, then it boiled This simmering feeling grew for some time, then it boiled into an outbreak of revolt.  into an outbreak of revolt.  The people of Medina agonized that such a thing could The people of Medina agonized that such a thing could ever happen.  ever happen.  Their complacency gave way to guilt and this focused their Their complacency gave way to guilt and this focused their energy on an intense desire: energy on an intense desire:

to revolt and to revolt and To get rid of Yazid of Benu Umayya, the despised ruler. To get rid of Yazid of Benu Umayya, the despised ruler.

Zainul Abideen Goes Into Seclusion Zainul Abideen Goes Into Seclusion

Initially Zainul Abideen wanted seclusion, away from the Initially Zainul Abideen wanted seclusion, away from the people.  people.  Seclusion was a form of solace for him, and a time to Seclusion was a form of solace for him, and a time to collect his thoughts.collect his thoughts.For one year in seclusion he would see no more than 3-5 For one year in seclusion he would see no more than 3-5 people, no more than you could count on your fingers. people, no more than you could count on your fingers. (Seerah of the twelve Imams, H.M. Al-Hassani, Vol. 2, Imam Zainul Abideen.  (Seerah of the twelve Imams, H.M. Al-Hassani, Vol. 2, Imam Zainul Abideen.  Also Al-Sajjad, by Husain Baaqir, Page 40, quoting Al-Kash'shi.) Also Al-Sajjad, by Husain Baaqir, Page 40, quoting Al-Kash'shi.)  He communicated with these people on religious matters He communicated with these people on religious matters and points of social importance, but not beyond that.  and points of social importance, but not beyond that.  Zainul Abideen's aunt, Zainul Abideen's aunt, ZainabZainab, not only tended to him but , not only tended to him but was the principal means to take his answers to the many was the principal means to take his answers to the many questions people asked in religious matters. questions people asked in religious matters. 

Plan of Zainul AbideenPlan of Zainul Abideen

But Imam Zainul Abideen wouldn't spend his time idly, for he put the But Imam Zainul Abideen wouldn't spend his time idly, for he put the blueprint and design for a plan to:blueprint and design for a plan to:

outsmart his adversaries,outsmart his adversaries,work in an imperceptible manner as not to raise suspicion,work in an imperceptible manner as not to raise suspicion,focus on Karbala and its consequences, andfocus on Karbala and its consequences, andgradually begin to educate people into the genuine Islam and build a gradually begin to educate people into the genuine Islam and build a base of Piety‑minded community,base of Piety‑minded community,And to build a base of scholars to spread the teachings of Islam to the And to build a base of scholars to spread the teachings of Islam to the rest of the Ummah,rest of the Ummah,

At the same time undo the inroads of pre‑Islamic practices that Benu At the same time undo the inroads of pre‑Islamic practices that Benu Umayya's government was reviving. And toUmayya's government was reviving. And topreserve the Islamic Directives from subtle distortions by Benu preserve the Islamic Directives from subtle distortions by Benu Umayya.Umayya.

For his strategy and planningFor his strategy and planning

Zainul Abideen's strategy proved extremely successful. The Zainul Abideen's strategy proved extremely successful. The execution of his plan took the better part of his lifetime. execution of his plan took the better part of his lifetime. Zainul Abideen worked:Zainul Abideen worked:

a) diligently,a) diligently,b) methodically,b) methodically,c) imperceptibly, andc) imperceptibly, andd) with uncanny determination.d) with uncanny determination.

The result was that we all owe him much of our The result was that we all owe him much of our understanding of Islam as we know it now. understanding of Islam as we know it now.

  We are indebted to him and his courageous and dauntless We are indebted to him and his courageous and dauntless efforts.efforts.

Revolt in Medina Revolt in Medina

The agony of pain felt for Al‑Husain, coupled with the anger The agony of pain felt for Al‑Husain, coupled with the anger at the atrocities at Karbala were too much to take.  at the atrocities at Karbala were too much to take.  There was an outcry to rise against Yazid and his There was an outcry to rise against Yazid and his government.  government.  The government, they felt, was corrupt if not rotten. The government, they felt, was corrupt if not rotten. Being the seat of learning, with numerous Sahaaba still living, Being the seat of learning, with numerous Sahaaba still living, Medina was buzzing with activity.  Medina was buzzing with activity. 

Now the outcry was for everyone to withdraw his allegiance to Now the outcry was for everyone to withdraw his allegiance to Yazid.  Yazid.  Then dismissing the governor of Medina.  Then dismissing the governor of Medina.  Then looking for any of Benu Umayya, probably intending to Then looking for any of Benu Umayya, probably intending to punish them.  punish them.  This culminated in the revolt against Yazid.This culminated in the revolt against Yazid.

Marwan, as governor is on the RunMarwan, as governor is on the Run

Marwan was a prominent member of Benu Umayya:Marwan was a prominent member of Benu Umayya:He was the Secretary of State but the source of much trouble during He was the Secretary of State but the source of much trouble during the time of Khalifa Uthman,the time of Khalifa Uthman,Marwan fought against Imam Ali during Jamal Confrontation,Marwan fought against Imam Ali during Jamal Confrontation,He killed Talha (who was also fighting against Ali), andHe killed Talha (who was also fighting against Ali), andbefore Karbala, Marwan suggested to the Governor of Medina to before Karbala, Marwan suggested to the Governor of Medina to arrest and kill Imam Al‑Husain.arrest and kill Imam Al‑Husain.

Marwan was a source of much trouble to the Muslim Marwan was a source of much trouble to the Muslim Ummah, particularly to Ahlul Bayt!  Ummah, particularly to Ahlul Bayt!  Marwan was a foe to Zainul Abideen, yet Zainul Abideen Marwan was a foe to Zainul Abideen, yet Zainul Abideen was a friend even to his adversaries as we shall see!was a friend even to his adversaries as we shall see!

Zainul Abideen helps MarwanZainul Abideen helps Marwan

Now that Marwan and other members of Benu Umayya Now that Marwan and other members of Benu Umayya were being chased by people of Medina, were being chased by people of Medina,

Marwan wanted to leave Medina to a safer place. Marwan wanted to leave Medina to a safer place. But it was almost impossible to take with him his family and others But it was almost impossible to take with him his family and others of Benu Umayya for they were about 400 in number. of Benu Umayya for they were about 400 in number. Marwan wanted to leave them in custody in Medina, but not a Marwan wanted to leave them in custody in Medina, but not a single one in Medina accepted the responsibility. single one in Medina accepted the responsibility. About 400 individuals were at stake, mostly women and children, About 400 individuals were at stake, mostly women and children, they needed sustenance, safety, and protection. they needed sustenance, safety, and protection.

In desperation, when Marwan was refused help by the In desperation, when Marwan was refused help by the notables of Medina, he proceeded to Imam Zainul notables of Medina, he proceeded to Imam Zainul Abideen. Abideen.

Zainul Abideen in Custody of Benu UmayyaZainul Abideen in Custody of Benu Umayya

Zainul Abideen welcomed Marwan wholeheartedly even Zainul Abideen welcomed Marwan wholeheartedly even though Marwan has been his foe.though Marwan has been his foe. Zainul Abideen welcomed them as his valued guests,Zainul Abideen welcomed them as his valued guests,

[all 400] were fed, [all 400] were fed, had the facilities at their disposal, had the facilities at their disposal, were made to feel at home, for as long as several weeks, probably were made to feel at home, for as long as several weeks, probably months until matters of Medina were settled. months until matters of Medina were settled.

Their treatment was so kind and benevolent that some of Their treatment was so kind and benevolent that some of them said they felt better in Zainul Abideen's quarters that them said they felt better in Zainul Abideen's quarters that in their own homes! in their own homes! (Rabi' Al-Abraar, Zamakh'shari.)(Rabi' Al-Abraar, Zamakh'shari.)

The Revolt of Medina The Revolt of Medina

The uprising of Medina culminated in a ferocious battle outside the The uprising of Medina culminated in a ferocious battle outside the town.  town.  The forces of Yazid were professional fighters, far superior to the The forces of Yazid were professional fighters, far superior to the forces of Medina.  forces of Medina.  The Medina forces were no match, and they were defeated, leaving a The Medina forces were no match, and they were defeated, leaving a good many dead or wounded.good many dead or wounded.Having won the battle, Yazid's army played havoc in Medina—mind Having won the battle, Yazid's army played havoc in Medina—mind you this is the Prophet's city, and the place of growth of Islam, you this is the Prophet's city, and the place of growth of Islam, Yazid's fighters were given freedom to do anything they pleased in Yazid's fighters were given freedom to do anything they pleased in Medina for 3 whole days.  So:Medina for 3 whole days.  So:

Property was pilfered,Property was pilfered,numerous ordinary citizens killed in cold blood, andnumerous ordinary citizens killed in cold blood, andwomen assaulted!women assaulted!People were forced to pledge to Yazid as subjects or be killed.People were forced to pledge to Yazid as subjects or be killed.

As a Result of the RevoltAs a Result of the Revolt

The casualty of the battle was:The casualty of the battle was:More than 1,750 Companions of the Prophet More than 1,750 Companions of the Prophet (Sahaaba) lost their lives, many of whom highly learned (Sahaaba) lost their lives, many of whom highly learned men.  men.  This is beside an estimated 5,000 ordinary people This is beside an estimated 5,000 ordinary people killed! killed! (Taareekh Al-Islam, Vol. 1, Page 36.  Also Taareekh Al-Kamil Vol. 4, (Taareekh Al-Islam, Vol. 1, Page 36.  Also Taareekh Al-Kamil Vol. 4,

Page 49.Also Seerah of the Imams, H.M. Al-Hassani, Vol. 2, Page 133.) Page 49.Also Seerah of the Imams, H.M. Al-Hassani, Vol. 2, Page 133.)  In addition, a number from Abu Talib's and Benu In addition, a number from Abu Talib's and Benu Hashim's family were killed Hashim's family were killed As well as better than 90 prominent men from Quraish As well as better than 90 prominent men from Quraish and Ansaars.  and Ansaars. 

Ibn Zubair's Revolt Ibn Zubair's Revolt Ibn Zubair was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr; his mother was Ibn Zubair was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr; his mother was Asmaa', the daughter of Abu Bakr, and his father was Zubair, a Asmaa', the daughter of Abu Bakr, and his father was Zubair, a notable Companion.notable Companion.Ibn Zubair was not much of a sympathizer of Ahlul Bayt.Ibn Zubair was not much of a sympathizer of Ahlul Bayt.Ibn Zubair coveted the Khilaafah.  Ibn Zubair coveted the Khilaafah.  He was a power‑hungry man, cruel at times, but well known to the He was a power‑hungry man, cruel at times, but well known to the people of Medina, Hijaz and other areas.  people of Medina, Hijaz and other areas.  Ibn Zubair was of a mercurial nature, an opportunist, and very stingy.  Ibn Zubair was of a mercurial nature, an opportunist, and very stingy.  People knew that.People knew that.

Ibn Zubair was agitating in Medina, but when he failed, Ibn Zubair was agitating in Medina, but when he failed, he escaped to Mecca, gaining their loyalty, then declaring that the he escaped to Mecca, gaining their loyalty, then declaring that the Khilaafah is his, challenging Yazid.  Khilaafah is his, challenging Yazid.  As a result, Yazid's army (which had just ransacked Medina) went to As a result, Yazid's army (which had just ransacked Medina) went to meet him in battle in Mecca.meet him in battle in Mecca.

YAZID DIES YAZID DIES

Yazid was imposed on the Ummah by his father Mu'awiya, though Islam Yazid was imposed on the Ummah by his father Mu'awiya, though Islam is against rule-by-inheritance. is against rule-by-inheritance. Yazid was a wicked man, a pervert. not fit for Khilaafah. Yazid was a wicked man, a pervert. not fit for Khilaafah. Within 3 years of his rule, Within 3 years of his rule,

Yazid managed the unparalleled atrocities at Karbala, Yazid managed the unparalleled atrocities at Karbala, the desecration of Medina and its blood bath, the desecration of Medina and its blood bath, and his army was attacking Ibn Zubair's forces in Mecca at the time of his and his army was attacking Ibn Zubair's forces in Mecca at the time of his death. death.

Yazid's forces had many confrontations with Ibn Zubair's forces, they Yazid's forces had many confrontations with Ibn Zubair's forces, they even threw rocks by catapult at the Ka'ba, and burned the Ka'ba's cover! even threw rocks by catapult at the Ka'ba, and burned the Ka'ba's cover! It was at this time that the news of Yazid's death reached Medina. Having It was at this time that the news of Yazid's death reached Medina. Having heard that Yazid had died, his army left for Damascus.heard that Yazid had died, his army left for Damascus.Yazid was Khalifa at the age of 30 years and died 3 years later. Some Yazid was Khalifa at the age of 30 years and died 3 years later. Some say he was a little older when he became Khalifa.say he was a little older when he became Khalifa.

Yazid’s AtrocitiesYazid’s Atrocities

1. Karbala

2. Medina

3. Mecca

Zainul Abideen Contemporary KhulafaaZainul Abideen Contemporary Khulafaa

During his Lifetime, During his Lifetime, Zainul Abideen was Zainul Abideen was contemporary to the contemporary to the Following Rulers of Following Rulers of Benu Umayya: Benu Umayya:

3 of Benu Sufyan 3 of Benu Sufyan andand

4 of Benu Marwan4 of Benu Marwan

Benu Sufyan:Benu Sufyan:

1.1. Mu'awiya son of Abu SufyanMu'awiya son of Abu Sufyan

2.2. Yazid son of Mu'awiyaYazid son of Mu'awiya

3.3. Mu'awiya son of YazidMu'awiya son of Yazid

Benu Marwan:Benu Marwan:

1.1. Marwan son of Al‑HakamMarwan son of Al‑Hakam

2.2. Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

3.3. Waleed son of Abdul MalikWaleed son of Abdul Malik

4.4. Suleiman son of Abdul MalikSuleiman son of Abdul Malik

Contemporary to KhalifasContemporary to Khalifas

Zainul Abideen Zainul Abideen being contemporary being contemporary to 7to 7 of Benu Umayya of Benu Umayya Khalifas:Khalifas:

3 of Benu Sufyan 3 of Benu Sufyan andand

4 of Benu Marwan4 of Benu MarwanAl-WaleedAl-Waleed

SuleimanSuleiman

MarwanMarwan

YazidYazid

Abdul MalikAbdul Malik

Mu’awiyaMu’awiya

Mu’awiyaMu’awiya

Marwan the Khalifa Marwan the Khalifa

After Yazid's death there came a time when the Khilaafah was for After Yazid's death there came a time when the Khilaafah was for grabs.  grabs.  The son of Yazid (Mu’awiya II) abdicated after 4 months as Khalifa:The son of Yazid (Mu’awiya II) abdicated after 4 months as Khalifa:

acknowledging in a Friday Khutba that Khilaafah did not belong to him, acknowledging in a Friday Khutba that Khilaafah did not belong to him, to his father (Yazid), or to his grandfather (Mu'awiya).  to his father (Yazid), or to his grandfather (Mu'awiya).  After abdicating he was poisoned by members of Benu Umayya (his After abdicating he was poisoned by members of Benu Umayya (his family).family).

By use of force, aligning with some tribes, Marwan became a Khalifa.  By use of force, aligning with some tribes, Marwan became a Khalifa.  But only 9 months later, Marwan's wife chocked him to death by putting But only 9 months later, Marwan's wife chocked him to death by putting a pillow on his face and sitting on it. He was 63 years old.a pillow on his face and sitting on it. He was 63 years old.

At this time, Ibn Zubair's rule was all over Arabia, Yemen, and south of At this time, Ibn Zubair's rule was all over Arabia, Yemen, and south of Syria.  Syria.  Also at this time there was a revolt in Iraq against Benu Umayya's rule, Also at this time there was a revolt in Iraq against Benu Umayya's rule, to take revenge for Imam Al‑Husain.to take revenge for Imam Al‑Husain.

Abdul Malik the KhalifaAbdul Malik the Khalifa

Once Marwan was killed, his son Abdul Malik Once Marwan was killed, his son Abdul Malik was proclaimed the ruler or Khalifa.  was proclaimed the ruler or Khalifa. 

Abdul Malik was a shrewd but capable Abdul Malik was a shrewd but capable administrator, administrator,

a tough person taken to violence, a tough person taken to violence,

and believing in harsh firmness.  and believing in harsh firmness. 

Abdul Malik’s domain by this time was only Syria, Abdul Malik’s domain by this time was only Syria,

the rest of the Islamic territories were in the the rest of the Islamic territories were in the hands of others. hands of others. (Murooj Al-Dhahab, by Al-Mas'oodi, Vol 3.)(Murooj Al-Dhahab, by Al-Mas'oodi, Vol 3.)

Abdul Malik the KhalifaAbdul Malik the Khalifa

Abdul Malik maintained central authority over the many Arab Abdul Malik maintained central authority over the many Arab landlords.landlords.Abdul Malik Arabizes:Abdul Malik Arabizes:Abdul Malik decreed the Arabic language on the administration as Abdul Malik decreed the Arabic language on the administration as mandatory mandatory

to replace Greek, Aramaic, and Persian languages to replace Greek, Aramaic, and Persian languages that were used till his time.  Andthat were used till his time.  And

Tax‑books and books of administration henceforth were in Arabic.Tax‑books and books of administration henceforth were in Arabic.All officials were made to learn and deal through Arabic language, All officials were made to learn and deal through Arabic language,

to replace other languages which dominated before then by to replace other languages which dominated before then by indigenous administrative tradition.indigenous administrative tradition. (The Venture of Islam, Marshall Hodgson, (The Venture of Islam, Marshall Hodgson, Vol. 1, Page 246.)Vol. 1, Page 246.)

Abdul Malik son of MarwanAbdul Malik son of Marwan

Abdul Malik enlarged the Prophet's mosque, Abdul Malik enlarged the Prophet's mosque, but had to tear down some of the historic buildings.but had to tear down some of the historic buildings.

Abdul Malik tried to show affinity to the growing Abdul Malik tried to show affinity to the growing piety‑minded people (spearheaded by Zainul Abideen) piety‑minded people (spearheaded by Zainul Abideen) in Medina to gain their supportin Medina to gain their supportAbdul Malik builds the Dome of the Rock:Abdul Malik builds the Dome of the Rock:

Dome of the Rock took 7 years to build.Dome of the Rock took 7 years to build.It cost all the funds from Egypt (taxation) collected over a It cost all the funds from Egypt (taxation) collected over a period of 7 years.period of 7 years.Builders, engineers, artisans, and artists from all over were Builders, engineers, artisans, and artists from all over were employed.employed.

Abdul Malik Appoints Al-HajjajAbdul Malik Appoints Al-Hajjaj

Al-Hajjaj bloodily clashed with Ibn Zubair in Mecca and wrecked the Al-Hajjaj bloodily clashed with Ibn Zubair in Mecca and wrecked the Ka'ba,Ka'ba,

He killed Ibn Zubair who was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr.He killed Ibn Zubair who was the grandson of Khalifa Abu Bakr.When as governor, Al‑Hajjaj showed terrifying violence in Iraq, leading When as governor, Al‑Hajjaj showed terrifying violence in Iraq, leading to a lot of bloodshed, to a lot of bloodshed,

killed numerous innocent people, especially the loyalist to Ahlul Bayt.  killed numerous innocent people, especially the loyalist to Ahlul Bayt.  Al‑Hajjaj had a lust for bloodshed.Al‑Hajjaj had a lust for bloodshed.

Al‑Hajjaj ruled over the eastern part of the Islamic nation, Al‑Hajjaj ruled over the eastern part of the Islamic nation, using ruthless means at his disposal to wield obedience to the central using ruthless means at his disposal to wield obedience to the central authority of Abdul Malik.authority of Abdul Malik.

Al‑Hajjaj put down Khariji revolts.Al‑Hajjaj put down Khariji revolts.Al‑Hajjaj built Wasit and could use only Syrian troops since he could not Al‑Hajjaj built Wasit and could use only Syrian troops since he could not rely on Iraqis, the Iraqis hated him profoundly.rely on Iraqis, the Iraqis hated him profoundly.Al‑Hajjaj improved the irrigation canals in Iraq, thus improving thereby Al‑Hajjaj improved the irrigation canals in Iraq, thus improving thereby the agricultural yield.the agricultural yield.

And he increased revenue to the treasury.And he increased revenue to the treasury.

Al‑Tawwaboon, Revolt In Iraq Al‑Tawwaboon, Revolt In Iraq

Karbala shook the Islamic world very deeply.  Karbala shook the Islamic world very deeply.  People in Iraq felt extremely guilty.  People in Iraq felt extremely guilty. 

That they had betrayed Al‑Husain in the ugliest manner.  That they had betrayed Al‑Husain in the ugliest manner.  And to correct their error they wanted to fight back.  And to correct their error they wanted to fight back.  The confrontation took about 4 years after Karbala.  The confrontation took about 4 years after Karbala.  They were called Al‑Tawwaboon, meaning the Repenters.They were called Al‑Tawwaboon, meaning the Repenters.

Vowing to fight unto death, Al‑Tawwaboon marched toward Vowing to fight unto death, Al‑Tawwaboon marched toward a Syrian force headed by Ibn Ziyad, the killer of Al‑Husain.  a Syrian force headed by Ibn Ziyad, the killer of Al‑Husain.  Ibn Ziyad was near defeat when Syrian reinforcements Ibn Ziyad was near defeat when Syrian reinforcements poured in at a steady stream.  poured in at a steady stream. 

Being so outnumbered, the Tawwaboon continued to fight until almost Being so outnumbered, the Tawwaboon continued to fight until almost everyone was killed everyone was killed It is said that as many as 16,000 lost their life.It is said that as many as 16,000 lost their life.

Al‑Mukhtar, Revolt In Iraq Al‑Mukhtar, Revolt In Iraq

Not too long after the Tawwaboon's uprising a leader in Kufa agitated Not too long after the Tawwaboon's uprising a leader in Kufa agitated to avenge the blood of Imam Al‑Husain.to avenge the blood of Imam Al‑Husain.

The man’s name was Al‑Mukhtar.  The man’s name was Al‑Mukhtar.  A good many people responded to his call.  A good many people responded to his call. 

Al‑Mukhtar took advantage of the disintegration in Benu Umayya's Al‑Mukhtar took advantage of the disintegration in Benu Umayya's power at the timepower at the time

The disintegration took place after Yazid had died.The disintegration took place after Yazid had died.Al‑Mukhtar had connections with Muhammad Ibn HanafiyahAl‑Mukhtar had connections with Muhammad Ibn Hanafiyah

Muhammad Ibn Hanafiyah was the uncle of Zainul Abideen and a Muhammad Ibn Hanafiyah was the uncle of Zainul Abideen and a highly respected man.  highly respected man. 

In the beginning Al‑Mukhtar succeeded in his questIn the beginning Al‑Mukhtar succeeded in his questand in a short time all of Iraq came under his rule.  and in a short time all of Iraq came under his rule. 

Al‑Mukhtar's Revenge Al‑Mukhtar's Revenge

Al‑Mukhtar was now reigning all over Iraq and conditions seemed to Al‑Mukhtar was now reigning all over Iraq and conditions seemed to be in his favor. be in his favor. He scrutinized Kufa and vicinity hunting for everyone who had fought He scrutinized Kufa and vicinity hunting for everyone who had fought Imam Al‑Husain and participated against him in Karbala. Imam Al‑Husain and participated against him in Karbala.

Shimr, the killer of Imam Al‑Husain, Shimr, the killer of Imam Al‑Husain, Omar Ibn Sa'ad, the leader of the forces against Imam Al‑Husain, Omar Ibn Sa'ad, the leader of the forces against Imam Al‑Husain, and numerous others were all arrested. and numerous others were all arrested. They were all executed though not in the cruel manner in which they They were all executed though not in the cruel manner in which they had killed Imam Al‑Husain. had killed Imam Al‑Husain. It is said, most, if not all, of those who fought Imam Al‑Husain were It is said, most, if not all, of those who fought Imam Al‑Husain were killed, only a matter of a few years after the events of Karbala.killed, only a matter of a few years after the events of Karbala.

Al‑Mukhtar, Revolt In IraqAl‑Mukhtar, Revolt In Iraq

About a year or so later Al‑Mukhtar had to face a large About a year or so later Al‑Mukhtar had to face a large force heading toward him, coming from Syria.  force heading toward him, coming from Syria.  The force was sent by Abdul Malik Ibn Marwan the new The force was sent by Abdul Malik Ibn Marwan the new Khalifa.  Khalifa.  Abdul Malik sent a force consisting of 80,000 strong, with Abdul Malik sent a force consisting of 80,000 strong, with the best generals, the best generals, The force was under the leadership of Ibn Ziyad, the killer The force was under the leadership of Ibn Ziyad, the killer of Imam Al‑Husain in Karbala. of Imam Al‑Husain in Karbala. A fierce battle took place with many casualties, especially A fierce battle took place with many casualties, especially to the Syrians.  to the Syrians. 

Ibn Ziyad, their leader, and many generals were killed, Ibn Ziyad, their leader, and many generals were killed, and after that their army surrendered.and after that their army surrendered.

The End of Al-Mukhtar The End of Al-Mukhtar

Some time later there was intrigue behind the back of Al‑Mukhtar. Some time later there was intrigue behind the back of Al‑Mukhtar. Through the combination of the forces of Ibn Zubair, Through the combination of the forces of Ibn Zubair,

under the leadership of his brother, under the leadership of his brother, along with some local people who were not sympathetic to along with some local people who were not sympathetic to Al‑Mukhtar, Al‑Mukhtar, a revolt against Al‑Mukhtar was staged in which he was killed. a revolt against Al‑Mukhtar was staged in which he was killed. 

As a result Iraq came under the sovereignty of Ibn Zubair whose rule As a result Iraq came under the sovereignty of Ibn Zubair whose rule by then extended:by then extended:

Over all of Arabia, Over all of Arabia, Yemen, Yemen, Iraq, Iraq, and the southern part of Syria. and the southern part of Syria.

Benu Umayya's domain consisted only of Syria proper. Benu Umayya's domain consisted only of Syria proper.

Abdul Malik and Ibn Zubair Abdul Malik and Ibn Zubair

With Al‑Mukhtar gone, Abdul Malik, who was on the throne in Syria, had With Al‑Mukhtar gone, Abdul Malik, who was on the throne in Syria, had only one foe left, Ibn Zubair. only one foe left, Ibn Zubair. Ibn Zubair's headquarter was in Mecca, Ibn Zubair's headquarter was in Mecca,

his domain was quite extensive, his domain was quite extensive, and he had been claiming the Khilaafah with the majority of people behind and he had been claiming the Khilaafah with the majority of people behind him. him.

Imam Zainul Abideen and Benu Hashim, however, refused to give Al-Imam Zainul Abideen and Benu Hashim, however, refused to give Al-Zubair allegiance Zubair allegiance

for they knew his questionable character, greed, and his personal ambitions. for they knew his questionable character, greed, and his personal ambitions. Ibn Zubair was not much of a sympathizer of Ahlul Bayt. Ibn Zubair was not much of a sympathizer of Ahlul Bayt. Not only that, but Ahlul Bayt knew that from Shari'ah point of view the Not only that, but Ahlul Bayt knew that from Shari'ah point of view the Khilaafah belonged to them and not to anyone else.Khilaafah belonged to them and not to anyone else.

The Ka’ba, Ibn Zubair, and Al-HajjajThe Ka’ba, Ibn Zubair, and Al-Hajjaj

To subdue Ibn Zubair, Abdul Malik sent a large force under Al‑Hajjaj To subdue Ibn Zubair, Abdul Malik sent a large force under Al‑Hajjaj Al‑Thaqafi's leadership. Al‑Thaqafi's leadership. A ferocious battle took place in Mecca, A ferocious battle took place in Mecca,

Ibn Zubair was cornered in the Ka’ba areaIbn Zubair was cornered in the Ka’ba areaAl‑Hajjaj ransacked the area and the sacred Ka'ba was damaged by Al‑Hajjaj ransacked the area and the sacred Ka'ba was damaged by the large stones hurled by catapult!the large stones hurled by catapult!Ibn Zubair's forces were no match, and his forces disintegrated. Ibn Zubair's forces were no match, and his forces disintegrated.

It is said that was because he was stingy (not paying or feeding his It is said that was because he was stingy (not paying or feeding his fighters enough), fighters enough), They left him rather than risk their lives for such a stingy man! They left him rather than risk their lives for such a stingy man! Ibn Zubair was finally killed with only few loyalists fighting by his side.Ibn Zubair was finally killed with only few loyalists fighting by his side.

Al‑Hajjaj TerrorizesAl‑Hajjaj Terrorizes

After Al‑Hajjaj had defeated Ibn Zubair in Mecca, After Al‑Hajjaj had defeated Ibn Zubair in Mecca, he was dispatched to Iraq.he was dispatched to Iraq.Economically Iraq was the breadbasket of the Middle East because of Economically Iraq was the breadbasket of the Middle East because of the revenue it generated.  the revenue it generated.  Al‑Hajjaj was promised the Governorship of Iraq and beyond if he Al‑Hajjaj was promised the Governorship of Iraq and beyond if he succeeded in subduing the rebellious Iraqis.  succeeded in subduing the rebellious Iraqis. 

With that in mind, Al‑Hajjaj began a campaign of terror, With that in mind, Al‑Hajjaj began a campaign of terror, People were alarmed, in fear, horror, and dread.  People were alarmed, in fear, horror, and dread.  Devastation if not liquidation of so many people and families took Devastation if not liquidation of so many people and families took place.  place.  Mind you, in many cases this was because people showed Mind you, in many cases this was because people showed dissatisfaction with the situation!  dissatisfaction with the situation! 

Al‑Hajjaj TerrorizesAl‑Hajjaj Terrorizes

Al‑Hajjaj was a sworn enemy to any sympathizer to Ahlul Bayt, Al‑Hajjaj was a sworn enemy to any sympathizer to Ahlul Bayt, and he killed even Companions of the Prophet because of that!  and he killed even Companions of the Prophet because of that!  Such sympathizers were targeted as potential enemies of the State.Such sympathizers were targeted as potential enemies of the State.

It is said that as many as 50,000 (others say 250,000) people perished It is said that as many as 50,000 (others say 250,000) people perished at his hands.  at his hands. 

Al‑Hajjaj even put men and women in tiny cells of prison, Al‑Hajjaj even put men and women in tiny cells of prison, so tiny they had to stand side by side like a bundle; so tiny they had to stand side by side like a bundle; and in the heat of summer —in horrifying conditionsand in the heat of summer —in horrifying conditionsAl-Hajjaj ordered to pour hot ashes on their heads, to let them die! Al-Hajjaj ordered to pour hot ashes on their heads, to let them die! For such was his brutality and vindictiveness.For such was his brutality and vindictiveness.

Estimates vary from 50,000 to 250,000 people perished at his hands. Estimates vary from 50,000 to 250,000 people perished at his hands.

AL‑HAJJAJAL‑HAJJAJ

Because the people could not stand such ruthlessnessBecause the people could not stand such ruthlessnessA number of revolts took place in Iraq, A number of revolts took place in Iraq, But Al‑Hajjaj was able to subdue them.  But Al‑Hajjaj was able to subdue them. 

By such use of force, under such tyrannical conditions, By such use of force, under such tyrannical conditions, the country was subdued into submission after about 6 the country was subdued into submission after about 6 years.  years.  Al‑Hajjaj was so hated and the conditions were such bad, Al‑Hajjaj was so hated and the conditions were such bad, that afterwards he had to build a new town (Wasit) to that afterwards he had to build a new town (Wasit) to make it the capital of the province.  make it the capital of the province. 

He had to utilize only loyal Syrian Arabs to form the bulk of his He had to utilize only loyal Syrian Arabs to form the bulk of his forces.  forces.  No Iraqi ever wanted to be on his side, No Iraqi ever wanted to be on his side, Neither did he trust any of them. Neither did he trust any of them.

AL‑HAJJAJAL‑HAJJAJ

During his governorship, Al‑Hajjaj managed to kill such Sahaaba as:During his governorship, Al‑Hajjaj managed to kill such Sahaaba as:Ibn Jubair, and Ibn Jubair, and Aamir Abu Tufail (was the last of the Sahaaba left), and Aamir Abu Tufail (was the last of the Sahaaba left), and Even the aged Qanbar, the dedicated servant of Imam Ali, Even the aged Qanbar, the dedicated servant of Imam Ali, Al-Hajjaj murdered them because they refused to curse or damn Al-Hajjaj murdered them because they refused to curse or damn Imam Ali!  Imam Ali! 

Zainul Abideen remained detached from politics, and passed through Zainul Abideen remained detached from politics, and passed through this horrible conditions in the Islamic history with agonizing pain.  this horrible conditions in the Islamic history with agonizing pain. 

He continued to educate and teach Islam during this arduous period He continued to educate and teach Islam during this arduous period which lasted about 20 years.  which lasted about 20 years. 

Finally the tyrant Al‑Hajjaj died of what seems to be an intestinal Finally the tyrant Al‑Hajjaj died of what seems to be an intestinal disease at the age of 54!  disease at the age of 54! 

He died almost in the same year Zainul Abideen died.He died almost in the same year Zainul Abideen died.

Muslim empire before Benu Umayya Rule

Muslim empire before Benu Umayya Rule, 656.

Expansion during Benu Umayya RuleExpansion during Benu Umayya Rule

MediterraneanMediterranean

SpainSpain

TransoxaniaTransoxania

Sind AreaSind Area

Muslim empire During Benu Umayya Rule

Expansion during Benu Umayya KhilaafahExpansion during Benu Umayya Khilaafah

SpainSpainTransoxaniaTransoxania

Sind areaSind area

MediterraneanMediterranean

The three phases of IslamThe three phases of Islam

Islam

1. Muhammad

2. Ali, Hasan &Husain3. Rest of Imams

ISLAMISLAM

Picture of Al-Baqii 1925Picture of Al-Baqii 1925

Al-Baqii after it was Al-Baqii after it was destroyeddestroyed

Al-Baqii before 1925Al-Baqii before 1925

In ConclusionIn Conclusion

Zainul Abideen and the times of Benu Umayya rulers

1. Yazid’s Atrocities2. Revolt in Medina3. Zainul Abideen helps Marwan4. Ibn Zubair's Revolt5. Marwan then Abdul Malik as the Khalifas6. Al‑Tawwaboon, Revolt In Iraq7. Al‑Mukhtar, Revolt In Iraq8. Abdul Malik and Ibn Zubair9. Al‑Hajjaj Terrorizes

Be in Allah’s CareBe in Allah’s Care

Thank you and May God Bless you.Thank you and May God Bless you.

Dr. A.S. HashimDr. A.S. Hashim