The First Siege Begins in Karbala
By Momineen Quran Center – Online Quran Learning with Trusted Shia Teachers
Bismi-Llāh al-Raḥmān al-Raḥīm
On the 6th day of Muharram, the enemies of Ahl al-Bayt (a.s.) intensified their cruelty. It was on this day that the siege of the Euphrates River began. Under orders from ‘Umar Ibn Sa’d, the general Shabbath Ibn Rib’i led 3,000 soldiers to block off access to the River Furat, depriving Imam Husayn (a.s.), his family, and companions of water.
This was a calculated and inhumane move to weaken the camp before battle. In the scorching heat of Karbala, the thirst became unbearable—especially for the women and children. No act better exposes the brutality of the Umayyad forces than denying water to the Prophet’s beloved grandson.
💔 The Loyal Effort of Habib Ibn Madhahir (r.a.)
On this same day, the brave and devoted companion Habib Ibn Madhahir al-Asadi (r.a.) asked Imam Husayn (a.s.) for permission to reach out to his tribe, Bani Asad, for support. Around 70 members of the tribe responded to Habib’s call and came with him to aid the Imam.
Sadly, the attempt was thwarted by ‘Umar Ibn Sa’d, who sent troops to block their path. A skirmish followed. Some of the tribe were martyred, others scattered, and Habib returned—heartbroken, but firm in his loyalty.
🤝 A Final Plea for Peace
Also on the 6th of Muharram, Imam Husayn (a.s.) met ‘Umar Ibn Sa’d for a final attempt at reconciliation. With dignity and wisdom, the Imam tried to persuade him to avoid war and bloodshed. But Ibn Sa’d, lured by worldly rewards, remained unmoved.
The Imam raised his hands and prayed:
“O Allah, never forgive him for what he is about to do.”
This heartfelt du’a was a cry for justice, a response to the hardness of hearts and the betrayal of truth.
🕯️ Remembering Al-Sharif al-Radi (r.a.)
Coincidentally, the 6th of Muharram is also the death anniversary of the esteemed Shia scholar, Al-Sharif al-Radi (r.a.), best known for compiling the Nahj al-Balaghah—a timeless collection of sermons, letters, and sayings of Imam Ali (a.s.).
A student of Shaykh al-Mufid and teacher of Shaykh al-Tusi, he opened a school in Baghdad called Dar al-‘Ilm, which shaped generations of scholars. He passed away at only 47 years of age and is buried near the Shrine of al-Kadhimayn (a.s.).
🕌 Reflect, Learn, and Grow with Momineen Quran Center
As we reflect on the events of Karbala, we must also connect spiritually with the message of Imam Husayn (a.s.)—truth, sacrifice, and steadfastness in the face of oppression.
At Momineen Quran Center, we help students worldwide connect with the Quran and Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) through our online classes taught by certified Shia teachers. Whether you’re a child, a busy parent, or a lifelong learner, our flexible schedules and knowledgeable instructors are here to guide you.
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Let us raise a generation that learns the Qur’an with the spirit of Karbala, the bravery of Abbas (a.s), and the loyalty of Janabe John (r.a).
Wa al-ḥamdu lil-Lāhi Rabbil-‘ālamīn
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