Table of Contents
Introduction
Hussain Ibn Ali (b. 626 AD) is regarded as the symbol of justice, selflessness, and sacrifice in Islamic history.
He was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad and son of Ali Ibn Abi Talib, the two most central figures in Islam.
Imam Hussain’s sacrifice in the tragic battle of Karbala transcends the boundaries of religion and time, as he refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid’s unjust and tyrannical rule, resulting in the selfless sacrifice of himself, his family, and his companions.
In this blog post, I’ve compiled 44 Imam Hussain quotes on life, Karbala, death, humanity, and the day of Ashura. So, let’s start reading these Imam Hussain quotes in English.
18 Inspirational Imam Hussain Quotes
Do not say something which would undermine your self-worth.
Imam Hussain
Do not expect to be rewarded more than you deserve.
Imam Hussain
Gain people’s praise with your efforts and successes, and do not expose yourself to people’s blames through laziness and lethargy.
Imam Hussain
The most merciful person is the one who forgives when he is able to revenge.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
When we’re hurt, angry, or betrayed, it can be extremely difficult to forgive. We might even interpret it as a sign of weakness as if we were letting them off the hook. But forgiveness is a sign of incredible strength and courage.
Choosing forgiveness means refusing to strike back, even when the pain is overwhelming. It means rising above our own hurt and anger. Now, it doesn’t mean forgetting what happened but releasing ourselves from the burden of carrying resentment.
And by forgiving, we break the cycle of revenge and pave the way for a life of love and compassion instead of being defined by pain, as this Hazrat Imam Hussain quote suggests.
So, let’s remember that true greatness lies not in seeking revenge, but in being able to forgive and embrace forgiveness in a world filled with tension.
Also Read: 40 Imam Ali Quotes About Life, Patience, Love, Death, Silence & Knowledge
Be steadfast and firm in the way toward what is right, even if your journey is full of pain and challenges.
Imam Hussain
If you don’t believe in any religion, at least be free-spirited and honest in your actions.
Imam Hussain
People are slaves of this world. Religion is just what they say.
Imam Hussain
They use it as long as it provides them with their living. When they are tested, there remain only a few true religious ones.
Beware!
Imam Hussain
Do not be among those who are concerned about the sins of others while neglectful of their own sins.
Brief Analysis
Today, it’s so easy to get sucked into pointing fingers at others’ mistakes. Society sometimes encourages this behavior and we end up investing all our energy into judging others, forgetting that we, too, are imperfect.
But what if we changed our perspective as this Imam Hussein quote suggests us to? What if we took a step back and turned the spotlight inward? That’s the message Imam Hussain is trying to convey.
Instead of being overly concerned about what everyone else is doing wrong, we should take the time to discover ourselves and be more introspective.
So, let’s pause for a moment and be kinder to ourselves and to others and let’s foster an atmosphere of empathy and understanding.
Avoid oppressing the one who does not have any supporter against you, other than the Almighty God.
Imam Hussain
One who reveals your faults to you like a mirror is your true friend, and one who flatters you and covers up your faults is your enemy.
Imam Hussain
Wisdom will not be gained, unless through following the right path.
Imam Hussain
Kindness elevates human beings, and faithfulness is a sign of decency.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
In a world filled with differences, showing kindness not only makes our lives better but also elevates us to a higher level of humanity. It’s like a ripple effect of goodness that spreads beyond boundaries.
And being faithful is what holds families, communities, and societies together. In fact, it’s not just a nice thing to do, but it’s a true mark of decency and a reflection of our character.
Kindness and faithfulness are not just some fancy ideals we read about; in our busy lives, we often forget how important they are for a compassionate and trustworthy society.
So, let’s take a moment to reflect on this Imam Hussain saying, and let’s make an effort to be kinder, to show compassion to others, and to stay faithful to our relationships.
Seeking knowledge will lead you toward wisdom and elevation.
Imam Hussain
Hastiness is foolishness.
Imam Hussain
Among the signs of ignorance is arguing with irrational people.
Imam Hussain
When you are frustrated and do not know a way out, only flexibility and moderation towards difficulties will save you.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
Imam Hussain was a prominent figure in Islamic history, renowned for his steadfast dedication to justice and compassion. He faced immense trials throughout his life and that’s why he is ideally suited to speak these words.
Now, let’s come to this quote by Imam Hussain. Flexibility doesn’t mean abandoning our principles. The key is to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances around us. If our original plans seem blocked, we must adapt and find new paths, just as an enduring tree branch sways in the wind.
Moderation, on the other hand, helps us respond to challenges in a balanced manner. It allows us to take a step back, breathe, and respond with a composed attitude.
By embracing flexibility and moderation, we shift from feeling like helpless victims to being in control of our own fates. And Imam Hussain’s words don’t deny the intensity of our struggles or the pain we feel but rather empower us with the wisdom and resilience to face them.
Imam Hussain was asked:
Imam Hussain
What causes noble and eminent personality?
He replied: “Controlling your tongue and doing good deeds.”
When a poor man begs for your help, his pride is hurt. Then you don’t deal another blow to his pride by letting him down.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
The act of begging itself is a testament to the fragility of a human. Pride, which is an integral part of every person’s dignity, feels wounded when we are forced to ask for help.
So, once someone turns to us for assistance, their hope is tied to our response. And when we deny them assistance, we cause a deeper wound to their already fragile self-esteem. That’s why we should see beyond our own worries whenever possible.
In a world often defined by its divisions, our little acts of such kindness can literally bridge the gaps between wealth and poverty, privilege and need, by treating each individual with dignity.
So, let’s try to look past our own egos and prejudices, and acknowledge the inherent worth of every human being in times of need.
8 Imam Hussain Quotes About Life
Visiting relatives and keeping in touch with them will bring you a longer and more substantial life.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to neglect the importance of spending time with family and nurturing relationships.
Studies in the field of psychology and sociology back up the idea that maintaining strong family bonds can improve our well-being and even prolong our lives.
After all, the bond we share with our family members creates a safety net. This emotional support not only improves our mental health but also gives us a better quality of life professionally and personally.
So, let’s pay heed to Imam Hussain quote about life and try to be active members of family life, strengthen the bonds that bind us together, and cherish the love and support that only family can provide.
Whoever seeks the satisfaction of people through disobedience of God; Then God subjects him to people.
Imam Hussain
Observe your physical health in your lifetime.
Imam Hussain
Should poverty, illness, and death not exist, man would not bow to anything.
Imam Hussain
Never show off your happiness in front of a person who is sad.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
Often, we share our joys with the world without considering how it might affect those who are dealing with grief, loneliness, or pain.
That’s why we should temper our happiness, not to diminish our joy, but to uplift others by being considerate of their feelings.
We have a responsibility to reach out to others in need, offering a listening ear, a comforting embrace, or even a kind word. By doing so, we can mend broken hearts and lighten the burdens others carry.
So, let us celebrate our joys with humility and sensitivity, mindful of those who may be struggling.
You deserve Paradise.
Imam Hussain
Don’t sell yourself for anything less. Whoever is content to worldly pleasures, has sufficed to something base and low.
Tolerance is man’s ornament, keeping promises is a sign of nobility, and bonding with others is grace.
Imam Hussain
Silence is an ornament (for man).
Imam Hussain
8 Imam Hussain Quotes on Karbala & Death
On the night of Ashura, he gathered his followers in his tent, put out the light and said:
“Beware that I give you permission to leave this place; there is no obligation on you anymore, and you can all leave.”
However, not even one of them left his side.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
Imagine yourself transported back in time to Karbala, where Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, faces an evil enemy, Yazid’s army. Despite being vastly outnumbered, he stands steadfast in his principles, refusing to submit to tyranny and oppression.
As the night of Ashura (10th Muharram) approaches, he gathers his loyal followers in his tent as the gravity of the situation becomes apparent. As they assemble in the dimly lit enclosure, the air is thick with tension and uncertainty. Imam Hussain gives his companions an extraordinary choice here-to leave the battlefield freely and without obligation. This is a moment of immense significance, for Hussain releases them from their allegiance, understanding the danger they face together.
As each follower contemplates the offer before them, the room is filled with emotion. At least a few might seize the opportunity to escape the approaching danger out of fear and self-preservation. But then, a remarkable act of loyalty and devotion unfolds. Despite the potential freedom that lies before them, not a single soul moves from Imam Hussain’s side, as this quote about Karbala tells.
The devotion displayed by these followers in spite of adversity captures the essence of the tragedy of Karbala. The tragedy of Karbala, resulting in the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family and companions, symbolizes the eternal struggle against oppression and injustice. Today, millions of people around the world remember these martyrs against tyranny, and their legacy lives on as a result of their devotion while the army of Yazid has long faded into oblivion.
Also Read: 56 Quran Quotes on Peace, Love, Patience, Forgiveness, Life & Death (Quranic Verses)
Death with dignity is better than life with humility.
Imam Hussain
I do not know companions more loyal and better than my companions, neither do I know a household more honorable and passionate than my household. May the Almighty rewards you for the favors you have done me.
Imam Hussain
On the Day of Ashura, he addressed his companions:
“Be patient, you noble ones. Death is only a bridge which takes you from misery and loss to the vast Paradise and the eternal graces.
Imam Hussain
To me, death for the sake of what is right, is nothing but happiness, and living under tyrants nothing but living in hell.
Imam Hussain
Brief Analysis
In the year 680 AD, during the month of Muharram, Imam Hussain fought against the oppressive forces of the Umayyad caliph, Yazid I. Even though outnumbered, he refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, whom he considered unjust and deviating from Islam’s true teachings.
And it’s important to remember that the Battle of Karbala was not just a clash of arms, but a struggle between the forces of tyranny and the fight for righteousness. For Imam Hussain, dying for a righteous cause brought ultimate fulfillment and contentment.
On the flip side, this Imam Hussain’s quote also reflects his hatred for living under the rule of oppressive tyrants. He couldn’t bear the thought of compromising his values, even if it meant enduring unimaginable hardships.
The tragedy of Karbala, where Imam Hussain and his companions were martyred, holds immense significance for Muslims, and millions of Muslims & non-Muslims visit Karbala, Iraq, where Imam Hussain and his family and companions are buried in honor of the martyrs.
The aim of my revolution is to reform society and revive the true teachings of Islam.
Imam Hussain
Yazid, the natural son of an illegitimate has placed me in a dilemma, drawing my sword and fighting or being humiliated by allegiance to him. But it is impossible for us to be humiliated, God, His Messenger, the believers, my respectable family would not prefer obedience to mean people. To dying with glory.
Imam Hussain
O’ the son of Adam! Think for a while and ask yourself: Where are the kings and emperors of the world? Where are those who rebuilt the ruins, dug ditches and wells, planted trees, and set up habitable towns? Where are those who gathered wealth? They had to part with their wealth and properties and leave them to others reluctantly. We, too, will have the same fate.
Imam Hussain
10 Quotes About Imam Hussain by Famous Personalities
If India wants to be a successful country, it must follow in the footsteps of Imam Hussain.
Mahatma Gandhi
The best lesson which we get from the tragedy of Karbala is that Hussain and his companions were rigid believers in God. They illustrated that the numerical superiority does not count when it comes to the truth and the falsehood. The victory of Hussain despite his minority, marvels me.
Thomas Carlyle
It was possible for Hussain to save his life by submitting himself to the will of Yazid, But his responsibility as a reformer did not allow him to accept Yazid’s Caliphate, He therefore prepared to embrace all sorts of discomfort and inconvenience in order to deliver Islam from the hands of Omayyad’s, under the blazing sun, on the parched land and against the stifling heat of Arabia, stood the immortal Hussain.
Washington Irving
If Husain had fought to quench his worldly desires, then I do not understand why his sister, wife, and children accompanied him. It stands to reason, therefore, that he sacrificed purely for Islam.
Charles Dickens
In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Hussain will awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader.
Edward Gibbon
The world is unable to present an example finer and brighter than the personality of Imam Hussain.
Muhammad Ali Jinnah
If I had an army like the 72 soldiers of Hussain, I would have won freedom for India in 24 hours.
Mahatma Gandhi
No tragic event of human history can vie with the end of Hazrat Imam Hussain in point of its heart – rendering pathos, in the field of Karbala.
Dr. Rajandra Prasad
Is there a heart that may not brim with grief and sorrow when it hears about the tragedy of Karbala, even a non-Muslim also cannot deny the cleanness and purity of this Islamic war.
Edward Browne
Imam Hussain’s sacrifice is for all groups and communities, an example of the path of righteousness.
Edward Gibbon
Read ‘Imam Hussain: Life and Legacy’
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