Imam Ali ar-Ridha (AS): “Those who weep should weep over the likes of Husain (a.s.) for surely, weeping over him does away with one’s great sins.” Bihar ul Anwar vol 94 pg. 184

At the sighting of the crescent moon of Muharram, Shias all over the world begin to mourn the loss of Imam Husain (as) and the events of the day of Ashura.  As we gather to remember the sacrifice of Imam and his family we must never forget the message he left behind.  From the battles on the field to the tribulations of the women such as Bibi Zainab (as) and the children such as Bibi Sakina and Ali Asgher, the family of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has set examples of courage, faith, and Imaan for every man, women and child to follow. 

Commemorating the events of Ashura should not be considered just a ritual that we complete each year.   Rather, it should be a time to strengthen our Imaan.  The day of Ashura should forever be embedded in our hearts as a reminder that we are on the right path. 

When Imam Husain (as) called out on the plains of Kerbala and said ‘Is there anyone to help me?’ he knew he would not get an answer.  But his call was for his Ummah.  It was a call to the followers of the Ahlul Bayt to rise against all oppression and injustice towards humanity, at whatever time, or whatever place.  

Even now, in all corners of the world mankind is faced with challenges that leave us questioning our faith.  How can we forget that whatever small sacrifices we make to protect truth and justice in our daily lives are minimal compared to that of Husain (as) and his family?  Let us remember the events of Kerbala and let them serve as a reminder of what we should stand for every single day. 

Imam Husain (AS) said to his son Ali (AS): “Stand for the truth even if it is bitter.”

Our heartfelt condolences to Prophet Muhammad on the shahadat of his grandson and his family.  Our condolences to our 12th Imam - Imam Al-Mahdi.   May Allah give us all the courage to follow in the teachings of the Prophet and his family -  Ameen.