Preface
Looking at the lofty peaks of faith, courage and fidelity, we find a great and unique virtuous man, named Abbas, the brave son of Amiralmomenin (a.s.), who is a prominent example of virtue, perfection, chivalry, generosity, devotion, strength and support, and in general of any good trait and attribute of merit concerned with human benevolence. We have always learned faithfulness, truth seeking, struggle with falsehood, and self-sacrifice from him. Our generation is indebted to the ideology of Jihad and martyrdom in which Abalfazl is the standard-bearer, and shines like the sun.
Now, although more than one thousand three hundred years pass from the scenes of such a lot of self-sacrifice, prowess and fidelity on Ashura, but the history clearly shows the dignities of Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.), and his name is always accompanied with fidelity, courtesy, self-sacrifice and devotion. The visage of chivalry manifested in his behavior has not faded by lapse of such long a period.
Ashura was a grand, inspirational and epic day, on which the noble men, great spirits and mighty determinations displayed their magnificence and nobility to the world, and the history was vitalized by the sacrifice of the people of Ashura, and time throbbed with the pulse of hero and epic people of Karbala.
Karbala became an educative and positive school, the graduates of which were awarded with the medals of faith, sincerity, promise, Jihad, …, and Abbas was the crown of students in that university.
This grand school is still open, and admits student. One of the professors of training courses of fidelity and stages of acquiring knowledge, is the standard-bearer of Karbala, who standing on the height of love and courage, opens the passage of freedom and liberty with his cut hands, and leads to the path of light. All of these realities are hidden in the name of Abbas, and scent of a “culture” is smelt with his name.
We need a lead to reach to the spring of faith and belief. Our spirit is thirsty and our heart is aspirant. The saints of religion and the samples of virtue and sincerity can shows us the path, and quench our thirst with the soft water of Zamzam available with them.
If we find Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.) among the examples, it is for the light of the lamp which he has kindled for the men, calling us to this path from such a far distance. He is an example, not only of courage and campaign, but also of faith and spirituality; not only of resistance and steadiness, but also of worship and vigil; not only of the knighthood and epic, but also of sincerity and awareness, knowledge and faithfulness.
What you read hereunder describes only a brief about the personality of Hazrat Abalfazl (a.s.). We wish the name, remembrance and biography of this great martyr and brave warlord to kindle the light of faith and certainty in our mind and life.
1.02.2000
Qom, Javad Mohaddesi
Birth of prowess
Many years lapsed after painful martyrdom of Prophet’s daughter. After her, Ali (a.s.) had married with Ammame, Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.) granddaughter. With lapse of more than ten years from the heart-rending event, Ali (a.s.) was still sorrowful for missing Zahra.
The Prophet’s household had a strange destiny. Hashemites were oppressed while they had utmost honor and grandeur. When Ali (a.s.) had decided to marry, he was aware of Ashura. He called his brother, Aqil, who was expert in genealogy and know well various tribes and clans, as well as their moral and spiritual characters and features. He asked him: Find a qualified spouse for me, from a clan the ancestors of which are among the brave and lionhearted men, so that such a wife could bring a courageous and brave son for him.
Then, Aqil introduced a girl from Kallab clan to Amiralmomenin (a.s.) having the same qualifications. Her name was Fatimah, daughter of Hazam Ebne Khalid, and her ancestors were all among the courageous men. She was a girl of gentle birth and nobility from mother side too. She was called Fatima Kallabia, and later known as “Ommolbanin”, that is, mother of sons. She gave birth to four sons, and Abbas was one of them.
Aqil went to her father to propose to her daughter. He accepted and agreed honorably. Hazrat Ali (a.s.) married with the noble woman. Fatima Kallabia was the pure chastity, sincerity and virginity. When she entered Ali’s house after marriage, Hassan and Hossein (a.s.) were sick. She cared for them, and behaved them kindly.
It has been narrated that when they called her Fatima, she said them: Do not call me Fatima, for not remembering the pains of your mother, Fatima. You may call me as your servant.
She gave birth to four sons after marriage with Ali, named: Abbas, Abdollah, Jafar and Osman, and all of them were martyred in Karbala. Abbas, the hero that we are talking of his virtues and goodness in this book, is the first fruit of this blessed marriage and the elder son of Ommolbanin.
Fatima Kallabia (Ommolbanin) was a virtuous woman loving Prophet’s household, and respected this pure family. Her kindness, respect and amity was in observance of the Quran’s command which has called “amity with the Prophet’s household” as the wage for his messengership. She treated motherly with Hassan, Hossein, Zaynab and Omme Kolsoum, the beloved children of Zahra, and called herself as their servant. She was also very faithful to Amiralmomenin Ali (a.s.). Although she lived for a long time after his martyrdom (more than twenty years), but she did not marry to show her respect.
Her faith and affection to the Prophet’s grandchildren was so much that she liked them more than her own children. When Karbala event happened, she was looking for the news coming from Kufa and Karbala. When she heard the news about martyrdom of her sons, first she asked about Hossein (a.s.), and it was more important for her.
Abbas Ebne Ali was the son of such a grateful and decent lady, and had a father like Ali Ebne Abitaleb (a.s.). A future mixed with the scent of faith and essence of belief and sincerity was destined for him.
Ommolbanin gave birth to her first son on the fourth of Sha’ban 26 A.H. in Medina. Birth of Abbas lightened Ali’s house and his heart with hope, because he knew that in Karbala event which will happen later, he will be the standard-bearer and liegeman to his son, and Abbas, son of Ali will show sacrifice for Hossein son of Fatima.
When he was born, Hazrat Ali (a.s.) recited Azan and Iqama, name of God and the Prophet and related him with monotheism, messengership and religion, and called him “Abbas”. On the seventh day of his birth, according to the Islamic customs, he slaughtered a sheep for sacrifice and gave the meat to the poor as alms.
Sometimes, he embraced the infant Abbas, and kissed his little arms and shed tears. Once, Ommolbanin saw it, and asked the reason why Imam weeps. Hazrat replied: These arms will be cut for assistance to his brother Hossein. I am weeping for that day.
With birth of Abbas, Ali’s house was mixed with grief and happiness. Happiness for the blessed infant, and tear for his future and his hands in Karbala.
Abbas grow up in Ali’s house besides his faithful and loyal mother, Hassan and Hossein, and learnt the great lessons of humanity, truthfulness and morality from the pure family and Prophet’s household.
Undoubtedly, the training of Imam Ali (a.s.) had an essential role in formation of the prominent mental and spiritual character of this youth, and his high understanding originated from such high training.
Once Imam Ali (a.s.) had the little Abbas sitting beside himself. Hazrat Zeynab too was present. Imam said to the child: Utter one. Abbas said: one. He asked him to utter two. Abbas refrained to say, and said: I am shamed to utter two with the tongue I have called the Single God. Imam Ali (a.s.) was pleased to hear this from the child and kissed Abbas.
His innate talent and family training caused him to grow in the moral and spiritual perfection along with bodily and muscular growth and become a perfect, distinguished and admirable youth. He was elegant in view of stature as well as sanity and humanistic manifestations. He knew well that for what a great day he has been reserved to make sacrifice for helping Allah’s Authority. He was born for Ashura.
This reality was considered by Ali (a.s.) when he was going to marry with Ommolbanin. At the threshold of martyrdom, Imam Ali (a.s.) reminded Abbas of the “mystery of blood”.
At night of 21 Ramadan, 41 A.H., at the last hours of his life, Ali (a.s.) embraced Abbas, and said: My son, soon I will be rejoiced by you. My son, when Ashura comes, and you enter Euphrates, don’t drink water while your brother, Hossein (a.s.) is thirsty.
This was the first lesson which he learned at the night of martyrdom of Ali (a.s.), and never forgot it till Ashura.
At the last moments of Ali’s life, when his children had gathered around his bed and were anxious about the future, he made recommendations to each of them. He has likely put Abbas’s hand in that of Hosein (a.s.), and has recommended that, “O Abbas, your life and my Hossein’s life in Karbala! Don’t leave him alone!
Abbas was of a noble line, and had enjoyed the pure breaths and special attention of Ali (a.s.) and his mother, Ommolbanin. Ommolbanin too was chaste and affectionate to the Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.) Household. On the other hand, she was respected by the Prophet’s Household and had a distinguished station and reputation with them. After Ashura and returning to Medina, Zeynab went to her house, and offered her condolences to this bereaved mother for the martyrdom of Abbas and his brothers. She went to her house regularly, and shared her grief. These indicate respect and admirable station for her by the Prophet’s Household.
Youth season
Abbas was with Amiralmomenin, Imam Hassan and Imam Hossein since his birth, and had enjoyed the spring of their knowledge and virtue.
Abbas lived with Ali (a.s.) for fourteen years, when Ali (a.s.) was struggling with the enemies. Abbas participated in some of the battles. At 12 years old, he was brave, fearless and hero, and at the same age, he could cope with the champions and warriors. Ali (a.s.) did not let him, as well as Imam Hassan and Imam Hossein to fight. They were reserves for the future days of Islam, and Abbas should keep his life, power and courage for Karbala, and be the standard-bearer of Hossein’s host.
Some of the instances of his bravery in Saffein battle has been registered, and if the narration is authentic, it indicates his prowess in the teen ages and twelve years old.
Didn’t his 13 years old nephew, Qassem, create the epic beside his uncle that all admired him? Didn’t his father, Ali Ebne Abitaleb (a.s.), fight at youth with the Arab famous champions, like Marhab in Kheybar battle, and Amro Ebne Abdovad in Khandaq battle, and kill them? Wasn’t Abbas the brother of Imam Hassan, Imam Hossein, Mohammad Hanafye, Zeynab and Kolthoum? Weren’t his ancestors from mother’s side in the Kallab clan all among the warriors and cavaliers in fighting, bravery, swordsmanship and javelin throwing? Abbas was the meeting of two vessels of bravery, both from father’s side, Ali (a.s.), and mother’s side. Now the epic which he displayed at youth:
On one of the days of Saffein battle, a youth man came from Ali’s host, who had covered his face, and his actions showed the signs of courage, awe and strength. No one from the Syrian host dared to come to the field. All were watching the battle scene fearfully and anxiously. Moavieh, called one of his host’s men, named Ebne Shaetha, who was a warrior equal to thousands, and said: Fight with this young man. He said: O Amir, the people consider me equal with ten thousands men. How do you order me to fight with this young man? Moavieh asked: what we shall do? Ebne Shaetha said: I have seven sons. I will send one of them to kill him. Moavieh agreed. He sent one of his sons, but he was killed by the young man. All of his sons were killed one by one by the young man from Ali’s (a.s.) host.
Ebne Shaetha himself came to the field, saying: O young man, you killed all of my sons. By God, I will kill you. He attacked and the struggle was started. He also killed Ebne Shaetha and he joined his sons. All were amazed and surprised. Amiralmomenin called him, and asked to unveil his face, and kissed his forehead. He was the moon of Hashemites, Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.).
It has been also narrated that in Saffein battle, Moavieh’s host found control on the water, and Ali’s (a.s.) host were thirsty. When Hazrat Ali instructed a number of his men to go with Hossein and open the river, Abbas Ebne Ali too was besides and with his brother.
On 40 A.H., the bloody event in the Kufa prayer sanctuary occurred. Abbas Ebne Ali was fourteen years old when Ali (a.s.) was martyred, and saw the night and hidden burial of Amiralmomein (a.s.). Undoubtedly, this great grief hurt his sensitive spirit severely. But after father, he had a good support like Hassan and Hossein. Abbas never forgot the advice of his father at night of 21st of Ramadan on the eve of martyrdom. Ali (a.s.) asked him not to leave alone Hossein on Ashura and in Karbala. He knew that bitter days will come, and he shall strengthen his endeavor and courage, and sacrifice himself in Karbala to join eternality.
Ten bitter years passed, when his brother Imam Hassan Mojtaba (a.s.) was appointed to Imamate. The tricks of Moavieh impelled him to accept the imposed reconciliation. The oppressions of Umayyads had increased. Hojar Ebne Odai and his companions were martyred. Amro Ebne Hamaq Khazaei was martyred. Sternness with Ali’s family was continued. The preachers and orators affiliated to Moavieh’s court, reviled his father, Ali (a.s.). Abbas Ebne Ali witnessed those heart-breaking days till martyrdom of Imam Hassan (a.s.). When Imam Mojtaba was poisoned and martyred, Abbas Ebne Ali was 24 years old, and again he had to suffer another grief.
When Hashemites mourned for martyrdom of Imam Mojtaba (a.s.), his relatives met again the experience of demise of Prophet (s.a.w.a.), Fatima Zahra and Ali Mortaza, and their grieves were renewed. House of Imam Hassan was full of tear and agony. Abbas Ebne Ali too was one of those who wept bitterly and screamed in agony for his brother.
There was no other choice save forbearance of the grief, and leaving oneself to Divine decree, and preparing himself for the more bitter days. Imam Hassan Mojtaba (a.s.) was bathed and buried. Abbas accompanied with his other brothers (Imam Hossein & Mohammad Hanafieh) participated in the bathing ceremonies of the clean body of Imam Hassan (a.s.). When Imam Hassan’s coffin was brought to the Prophet’s shrine, Marvanian thought that they want to bury him there, and prevented them, and shooted his coffin. At this time, the anger of zealous Hashemite youths was provoked, and if Sayedoshohada (a.s.) had not invited to patience and self-control, they had killed the spiteful enemies. Among Hashemite youths, Abbas too moped, but forbore as he was obliged to. He wanted to put them to the sword, but Hossein Ebne Ali did not let him, and invited him to continence and patience, and remembered the will of Imam Mojtaba (a.s.) who had told no blood shall be shed!
Later, Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.) lived with his honorable brother, Sayedoshohada (a.s.) and the other youths of Prophet’s Household, and experienced vicissitudes of life.
A few years after martyrdom of his father, and at the beginning of Imamate of Imam Mojtaba, when Abbas was eighteen years old, he married with Lobabeh, daughter of Abdollah Ebne Abbas. Ebne Abbas was a tradition narrator, Quran commentator and qualified and eminent student of Ali (a.s.). The spiritual and mental character of this lady was formed at the house of this commentator and was adorned with knowledge and courtesy. She gave birth to two sons, Abidollah and Fazl, and both of them became the great scholars of religion and Quran promoters. Some of his nephews too were among the tradition narrators and religion scholars at the time of other Imams. His offsprings followed his way in the next generations, and were all among the scholars and votaries.
He lived in Medina and among the Hashemites until 60 A.H., and the epic of Karbala and his great role in the event. We will explain this part of his life in the future.
Abbas was with his brother, Hossein (a.s.), all through his life and his youth season. He was respected and honorable among the Hashemite youths, making a total group of about thirty youths in a circle of love and loyalty, all ready to defend Imam Hassan and Imam Hossein. In the meetings and circles, it was talked of glory of these youths, and in particular the awe, zeal and sense of honor of Abbas.
After death of Moavieh, when the governor of Medina wanted to talk about letter and request of Yazid from Imam Hossein (a.s.) to pay homage to him, and in the visit of Valid with Imam in the royal residence (Darolemareh), thirty of Hashemite youths, commanded by Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.), were waiting and watching outside of Valid’s house, for instruction of Imam, to enter and intervene if required. Those who moved from Medina to Mecca, and thereof to Karbala, were headed by Abalfazl (a.s.).
These are parts of events in Abbas life during youth period till the epic of Ashura. Abbas devoted himself to the love of Hossein, and became eternal. May the blessing and peace of Allah and all the saints be upon him.
Face of Abalfazl (a.s.)
Both face of Abbas and his morality and mentality were beautiful. Inward and outward of Abbas was shiny. His bright and shining face resembled him like a moon, and among the Hashemites, who were all the stars of perfection and beauty, Abalfazl was like a moon. On this account, he was called the Moon of Hashemites.
Describing his face, we shall not suffice with his strong figure, tall stature, stretched eyebrow and moon-like face. His virtues too were a part of Abalfazl’s face. In one hand, his power of virtue, piety and promise was strong, and on the other hand, he was one of the great heroes of Islam. He had beauty of face and character both together. He possessed a tall stature, powerful muscles, thick arms, and pleasant face. He had all good moralities.
When he rode on the horse, his foot reached the earth for his tall stature. He had inherited prowess and chivalry from his father, and in view of dignity, generosity, self-respect, attraction in face and behavior, he was a heritage of all grandeur and attractions of Hashemites. The sign of prostration was evident on his forehead, and indicated his vigil, worship, and reverence before Allah. He was a pious fighter and a warrior familiar with the nightly invocation.
His heart was strong and steady, like a piece of iron. His mind was open and his faith was stable, and his belief was deep-rooted. Monotheism and loving God originated from the depth of his soul. His worship and godliness was so strong that as Sheikh Sadouq explains: The sign of prostration was seen on his forehead and face.
Belief, insight and faith of Abbas was so well-known and famous that Shiite Imams always talked about it, and praised him as a lofty and example man. Once Imam Sajad (a.s.) looked at the face of “Abidellah”, son of Hazrat Abalfazl (a.s.), and wept. Then, he reminded Prophet’s uncle (Hamzeh Sayedoshohada) in Ohud and his own uncle (Abbas Ebne Ali) in Karbala and said: No day was worse than the day of Ohud for Prophet, when his uncle, Hamzeh, was martyred. There was no day worse than Ashura for Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.), when he was surrounded by the thirty thousand host of enemy, and they thought that they will approach God by killing Prophet’s grandson, and finally they did not listen the advices of Sayedoshohada, and he was martyred.
Then he reminded the self-sacrifice and spiritual greatness of Abbas (a.s.) and said: God may have His mercy on my uncle, Abbas, who sacrificed himself for his brother, so that his two hands were cut. God too granted him two wings for his two cut hands just like Jafar Ebne Abitaleb, with which he can fly in the paradise besides angels. Abbas has such a great rank and position with God that all martyrs on the resurrection emulate his high rank.
The great self-sacrifice and dedication of Abalfazl has always inspired great sacrifices for faith and religion. Many of devotees have followed Jafar Tayyar and Abbas Ebne Ali for their sacrifices.
Deep insight, sure knowledge and firm fidelity to the truth, Imams and the path of God were among his characteristics. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) has admired him for these features:
Our uncle, Abbas had a deep insight and firm faith. He struggled in the way of God besides Aba Abdellah, and passed the trial successfully, and was martyred. I testify that you chose your path insightfully and were martyred and followed the pious.
The deep and strong insight and sure knowledge applied for describing Imam, is an honorable proof for him. These high characteristics have made the face of Abbas Ebne Ali bright and eternal. In addition to being an elegant hero and brave standard-bearer, his scientific virtues, piety and high rank of knowledge that was satiated from divine knowledge since childhood are also remarkable. The phrase, ??? ?????? ?????, mentioned in some narration, refers to the reality that his scientific nourishment originates from his childhood.
He had a lot of knowledge about divine law, and was trustworthy for the narrators. He was very pious. Some of the great men have described him as:
Abbas knew divine law, was one of the religious experts among the offsprings of Imams. He was just, virtuous, trustworthy and pious.
According to the Late Qayeni: Abbas was one of the great men and excellent jurists of Prophet’s Household.
Besides having the rank of intercession on the day of resurrection due to his proximity and position with God, this brave and martyred warlord will be the means of intercession of Hazrat Zahra.
On the strenuous day of resurrection, Prophet will send Hazrat Ali to Fatima to attend for intercession. Amiralmomenin says to Fatima: What of means of intercession do you have with yourself and what have you reserved for today? Fatima Zahra says: O Ali, the cut hands of my son, Abbas will suffice.
Serving all the life for Imamate and infallible Imams is a great honor for Abbas Ebne Ali. In particular, he had a notable support role for Aba Abdellah Hossein (a.s.). His relation with Imam Hossein (a.s.) was like that of Amiralmomenin (a.s.) with Prophet (s.a.). Note the comparison made by one of the writers about this father and son:
In many of social affairs, Hazrat Abbas displayed manliness and bravery just like his father. Abbas was the support of Hossein like his father who was that of Prophet (s.a.). In the battle fields, he demonstrated the same resistance, perseverance, bravery, support, faith, resolution, not escaping from the enemy, and not fearing of big number of enemy in Karbala, which his father had already done in the battles of Ohud, Badr, Khandaq, Kheybar, ….
Abbas together with his brother fed many of the hungry people in Mecca and Medina, just like Ali (a.s.) who carried on his shoulder the bag of bread and palm, and took it for the orphans and the poor. Anyone having a request from Prophet (s.a.), first referred to Ali (a.s.), and anyone having a request from Imam Hossein (a.s.), first referred to Abbas.
Just like his father, who slept in the Prophet’s bed and devoted himself for Prophet (s.a.), Abbas devoted himself on Ashura to bring water for the children. Like his father who put to the sword in Prophet’s presence, Abbas put to the sword in his brother’s presence until he was killed. As his father went alone to the enemy’s invitation, he went alone to the enemy’s host to receive respite.
In the mirror of nicknames
Apart from the name, which distinguishes each individual from the others, there are some distinctive characteristics in view of morality and action. Nicknames are given for those characteristics, and the people are called with the nicknames.
When we look at the beautiful nicknames of Hazrat Abbas, we find them like a mirror, each reflecting an appearance from the nice spirit and virtues of Hazrat Abalfazl. Some of titles of Hazrat Abbas were popular at his lifetime, and some were given to him later. Each of them is an eternal medal of honor and virtue for him.
It is very nice when the name is worthy and the nickname is in harmony with its owner. Everyone shall be called with an appropriate and worthy nickname.
Amiralmomenin called this brave child, Abbas, because he attacked bravely like a lion in the battlefields. Like an angry lion, he caused fear in the enemy’s heart, and his epic screams caused the body of opponents to shake.
His nickname was Abalfazl (father of Fazl), both because he was the father of Fazl, and was the father of virtue (Fazl). Virtue and goodness originated from his pure nature.
He was also called “Abolqarbeh” (father of water bag) for carrying the water bag on his shoulder. He was water-carrier among Hashemites from the childhood. “Saqqa” (Water-carrier) was the other nickname of this great man. He provided water for the thirsty and children. Especially in the Karbala trip, he was water-carrier for the caravan and the thirsty in the tents of Aba Abdellah (a.s.). One of his tasks in Karbala was supply of water for Imam tents. When, on the seventh of Moharram, access to water was prevented for the companions of Imam Hossein (a.s.), he, accompanied by some of the companions, penetrated into the enemy’s line and brought some water from Euphrates to the tents. Finally, he was martyred when bringing water for the children on Ashura (will be explained later). He was from Hashemites, Abdolmotalleb and Aboutaleb, who were all water-carrier for the pilgrims. Ali too dug too many wells and ducts to quench the thirsty. On the day of Saffein, when the host of Ali (a.s.) dominated the water, he let the host of Moavieh to drink from it to show generosity of host of Ali (a.s.). Abbas is the continuation of the same line and creed, and persistence of this culture and sagacity. In Karbala, he was in the position of a water-carrier to protect the honor.
His other nickname was “Qamare Bani Hashem” (Moon of Hashemite). He was the most beautiful and attractive among Hashemite, and shined like a bright moon in a dark night.
He is also known with “Babol Havaej” (Gate to the people’s needs). His holy shrine is the focus of needs, and recourse to him, fulfills needs of the needy and involved. At his lifetime too, he was the gate to mercies and requests and source of bounty, and when the people wanted to talk to Hossein (a.s.), referred to Abbas. After his martyrdom, he has a particular favor to those who have recourse to his blessed name, and God fulfills the requests of people for his belief, self-sacrifice and martyrdom. There are many people, who have been cured through recourse to the favor of Abalfazl and resort to the sacred threshold of his beneficence and generosity, or their problems have been removed and their needs have been fulfilled. In the several books, strange and readable stories have been narrated about miracles of Hazrat Abalfazl (a.s.). Reading and hearing such miracles (if authentic and well-founded) increases man’s faith, belief and affection.
“Reaiss Asgarel Hossein” (Head of Hossein’s Host) is another nickname for him.
He is also known with “Alamdar” (standard-bearer) and “Sepahdar” (warlord). This title is concerned with “standard-bearer” role of Abbas in Karbala. He was the military commander of the forces of truth besides Imam Hossein (a.s.), and Sayedoshohada himself addressed him with the title of “Holder of standard”, indicating his role. “Abde Saleh” (The righteous servant) is the other title found in his Ziarat, narrated from Imam Sadiq (a.s.). It is a big honor that a divine infallible authority introduces the martyred Abbas as the righteous servant, and submissive to Allah, Prophet and Imam.
One of his other nicknames is “Tayyar” (flyer), because like his uncle, Jafar Tayyar, two wings were granted to him instead of his two cut hands to fly in the paradise with the angels. His father, Amiralmomenin (a.s.), had annunciated it to the family at Abbas childhood, when he kissed his hands and wept, to relieve their grief and sadness.
He is also called “Movassi” (generous helper) referring to his sacrifice and devotion for his brother, Imam Hossein (a.s.).
There are sixteen nicknames for Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.), each indicating an appearance from his elevated spirit and dignity.
All through his life, Abbas had shielded his life to protect Imam, and was with Imam Hossein (a.s.). He did not leave him, and fought to support him. He moved step by step beside Imam Hossein, and he himself was a shade of Sayedoshohada. In spite of being in a high rank of knowledge, virtue, bravery, piety, and an example for greatness and dignities, he had made himself a mortal character in his brother and melted in Sayedoshohada, and absolutely submissive to his Mowla (master). He behaved so to teach the others the lesson of submission to guardianship, acceptance of leadership, devotion, and the correct way of relation with God’s authority.
The fact that birthday of Imam Hossein is the third of Sha’ban, and that of Abalfazl on fourth of Sha’ban could be another allusion to his shady existence towards the sun of Imamate, who follows all through his life, and even in birthday too, one day after Imam Hossein, and a proof for his following and obedience (of course with an interval of twenty years).
In the Ashura event, and at that promised night, he undertook the responsibility of protection and guarding of Hossein tents, and was the guard of sanctuary and territory of Imamate.
Each of these meaningful and expressive nicknames is a board demonstrating his virtues for us, and leading us to the sanctum of his elevated spirit, steady heart, deep faith and shining life, and increases love to this devoted soldier of Quran and religion in the hearts.
Talking of his nicknames and titles, here we refer to some of the phrases narrated from Imams about him:
In the Ziarat narrated from Imam Sadiq (a.s.), addressing Hazrat Abbas (a.s.), it has been mentioned:
Peace unto you, O righteous and obedient Servant of Allah, Prophet, Amiralmomenin, Imam Hassan, and Imam Hossein. I call to witness Allah that you treaded on the same way of warriors and martyrs of Badr, the path of warriors for the faith, the well-wishers in struggle with the God’s enemies, the real helpers of God’s favorites and defenders from God’s saints.
We have also mentioned the high expressions of Imam Sadiq (a.s.) about him in the preceding parts.
In the Ziarat Nahye Moqaddasse, narrated from Imam Zaman (a.s.), he has been addressed:
Pease upon Abalfazl Abbas, son of Amiralmomenin, one who devoted his life for his brother, one who sacrificed himself for Hossein and was his guard, one whose hands were cut, ….
Among his greatest virtues and servitudes are help and aid of Prophet’s grandson and support of children of Zahra, and quenching the thirst of children of Aba Abdellah Hossein (a.s.) and sacrifice of his life for this clean path.
Symbol of bravery and fidelity
Neither bravery without fidelity is worthy, nor fidelity without bravery is working. The path of truth calls for the strong, tireless, trustworthy and loyal people. In the battle fields, knighthood and bravery mixed with fidelity to the path of truth, high cause and infallible leader are required, and all of these features existed in son of Ali (a.s.). Abbas was from the tribe of the courage and skilled in warfare from mother side, and also had the spirit of Ali in himself. He had both inborn bravery and lineal bravery as a result of the situation of life and where he was trained as well as the faith and belief on the purpose.
Ali (a.s.) was father of Abbas. The great man who had given new concepts to the bravery. Abalfazl Abbas was the son of this father, and was cultured in a school the example of which was Ali (a.s.). His family had grown in the battlefields of warfare, with sword and accustomed to fighting and martyrdom.
Ashura was the most appropriate battlefield for display of bravery and fidelity of Abbas. His fidelity appeared in the highest possible level and in the most beautiful form. However, due to the important responsibilities undertaken by him for finding tactics, bearing the standard of host, carrying water to the tents, guarding the caravan of martyrdom, Abbas could not display his bravery as he deserved. He could not display his spirit in the field of Karbala through suppressing those rancorous, vile and unfaithful persons.
However, the few scenes narrated about his epics in Karbala, indicate his peerless valor. Loyalty of Abbas appeared at utmost thirst and oppressed state to let the epic of loyalty to be registered on the waves of Euphrates and in the river of Alqameh.
Abbas did not abandon even for one moment from his brother and Imam all through his life, and did not spare any effort for obedience and service. In the human history, no brother could be found to be as honest, dedicated, devoted, obedient and submissive as Abbas for his brother Sayedoshohada. His loyalty, decency and courtesy have become a saying in the history. He never sat before Imam Hossein (a.s.) unless asking for permission. Abbas for Hossein was the same as Ali for Prophet. He always addressed Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) with the titles like “O Sayedi”, “O Aba Abdellah” and “O Ebne Rassoulallah”.
The scenes of fidelity and valor displayed by Abbas, are the same considered by Hazrat Ali (a.s.), when he wanted to marry with Ommolbanin (Abbas’s mother). He was aware of Karbala and Hossein’s (a.s.) need to a powerful support, a brave standard-bearer, faithful helper and devoted commander. Abbas too was informed from the childhood, and knew that for what a day he has been reserved, and for whom he shall devote himself. On this account, he was sincerely attached to his brother, Hossein; loved him; was proud of serving his brother warmly; calling his brother Mowla and Sayed. He boasted of serving two beloved heritages of Prophet and Fatima, that is, Imam Hassan and Imam Hossein. Although he was the superior in valor and championship, he was submissive and obedient to his brother earnestly.
Abbas had devoted all of his valor, grandeur and strength to his brother. The enemies trembled with fear when hearing his name. He had become the talk of everywhere for his championship, valor and bravery. His fidelity to Hossein as well as his chivalry and courtesy was the shelter and good example for the involved and feared.
He was chivalrous, tactful, brave, faithful, courteous, obedient to the Mowla’s order, worshipper and absorbed in the prominent character of his brother, Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.). These attributes lead him to the position of command and standard-bearing in Karbala, where he could exhibit his fidelity and valor. We will discuss later about some of manifestations of his chivalrous spirit when describing the events of Ahsura, but since we are now talking about his bravery, you may pay attention to the following scene:
On Ashura, Mard Ebne Sadiq, one of the well-knit and tall commanders of Yazid’s host, who only fought with the gallant warriors of the same rank with himself, became ready and well-armed mounting on a red horse, came to fight with Abbas Ebne Ali.
Before fighting, he wanted to pity Abbas and asked him to submit and put the sword on the earth. He rodomontaded and raved. But Abbas replied him, and called his elegance and valor as an honorable heritage from the Household of Prophet, and talked of his gallantry and championship in the battlefields. He said: We do not heed. My father, Ali Ebne Abitaleb, was always in the battlefields and never escaped the enemy. We too trust in God, …. Suddenly, in a surprise attack, he assaulted Mard and took his lance, and put it on the earth, and struck him with the same lance. The host of Kufa was going to intervene and save him. But Abbas hastened first, and mounted on the Mard’s horse like an eagle, and killed the slave who had come to help Mard.
Shemr and a number of commanders assailed him to repay the defeat and save Mard. Abbas increased his speed and preceded them and killed Mard, and some others in a struggle with the people of Yazid. Chivalry, promptitude, and appropriate movements in the battlefields caused Abbas to kill enemy and adversary, and overcome them.
Presene of Abalfazl (a.s.) in the host of Hossein Ebne Ali was (a.s.) in one hand, the cause of fear of the enemy, and on the other hand, a moral support and security for Imam’s companions, his family and the children surrounded by a desert full of enemy in that terrible situation. As far as Abbas was present, the women slept safely and were not worried, but a guard like Abalfazl was awake and watched.
With Abbas (a.s.) in the epic of Ashura
Since we are going to know Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.) in the scene of epic of Karbala, we have to narrate some events in which Abalfazl has been present. Stating these scenes and events shows faith and fidelity and obedience of Abbas, his chivalry, manliness and radiation of certainty and belief on the blade of long sword of Abbas, his insight in religion, steadiness in belief, persistence in creed and familiarity with martyrdom in the path of God.
We see a man in the Karbala front who was not impartial in the battle of truth and falsehood, and advocated the truth as far as losing his life. His stature was the tenacious and tall peak of valor, his heart was an immeasurable sea; his voice was rigorous and thundering. With such a lot of splendor, bravery and moral support, he was a soldier and devotee in the host of Aba Abdellah Hossein.
It was seventh of Moharram. A few days had lapsed from arrival of caravan of martyrdom to Karbala. The host of Kufa had control over the river of Euphrates and did not allow Hossein and his companions to take water. The order was issued from Kufa. They shabbily wanted to compel Hossein to compromise through using the bargaining chip of thirst.
Shemr Ebne Zeljoushan, who was one of the most defamer and spiteful enemies of Prophet’s Household, talked about Imam’s thirst ironically. When they prevented access of Zahra’s son to the water, Shemr said: You will never drink till death.
Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.) told Sayedoshohada: O Aba Abdellah, aren’t we rightful? He answered: yes.
Then, Abalfazl assaulted those preventing access to water, and scattered them from around the water so that Imam’s accompanies could take water and slake their thirst.
The enemy’s encirclement became tighter, and the control, more strict, and taking water from the Euphrates was difficult. As a result, thirst and lack of water appeared more in the tents of Imam Hossein (a.s.). Children were affected by thirst more than the others. The eyes and hearts relied on the brave Abbas to find a solution for the problem and bring water to the tents.
Hossein Ebne Ali commissioned his brave brother, Abbas, to undertake responsibility to provide water for the tents. He undertook to carry water for the thirsty. Abbas, along with thirty of Hashemites and other companions and twenty infantrymen, headed for Euphrates. The standard of this group was given to Nafe Ebne Helal. Euphrates was surrounded by the enemy’s forces. For taking water, they should break the circle of siege through a heroic operation and fill the leather bags and come back to the camp.
They arrived at the river. Filled the water bags. Returning from Euphrates, the guards blocked their way to avoid provision of water for the tents. A struggle was inevitable to happen. Some engaged in fighting and some amused the guards and some brought water to the destination. Abbas and Nafe were among those who were fighting, when going towards Euphrates and bringing back water.
This was the first military conflict between a group of companions of Imam Hossein (a.s.) and the host of Kufa in the bank of Euphrates. The brave Abbas was ready to devote himself wherever and whenever it was necessary, and be at service of Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) and his pure children.
Letter of security
A voice was heard from the back of tents of Imam Hossein (a.s.). It was the voice of Iblis, the Slinking Whisperer, Shemr, saying: Where are my nephews? He called Abalfazl and his three brothers. He had brought letter of security for them.
Once more in the past, Shemr, the uncle of Abalfazl, had brought a letter of security for him from Ebne Ziad, but he had rejected it politely. This time he wanted to separate him from the group of Imam’s companions.
At first, Abbas did not pay any heed to the voice, because he knew the owner of voice and his purpose. Imam Hossein (a.s.) said: Abbas, my brother! Although he is an evil-doer, but reply him and listen to what he says.
Abbas, together with his three brothers, came out from the tent. Shemr submitted to Abbas the letter of security which he had taken from Ebne Ziad, governor of Kufa, for them, and said: If you leave Hossein and come to us, your life will be secure.
Abbas who was so angry for such a big rudeness and insolence, looked at Shemr wrathfully and shouted:
Curse, wrath and damnation of God unto you and your security! May your hands be broken, O vile uninhibited man! Do you want us to leave alone Hossein, son of Fatima, the most honorable warrior in the path of God, and accept submission and obedience to the accursed and the vile? Do you bring for us security, while the son of Prophet is not secure?!
It has been narrated somewhere else that he said: God’s security is better than that of Abidellah.
The evil-doer returned ashamed and failed. Shemr was going to attract Abbas to weaken the host of Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.), and also strengthen Kufa front. Undoubtedly, Abbas was a valorous warrior, and symbol of Ali’s (a.s.) wrath. His presence among the companions of Sayedoshohada was very critical and fortified them. But the enemies of truth and followers of falsehood are always fool and blind-hearted. Is it possible to think that Abbas leaves alone the son of Fatima at these crucial and fateful moments and on the threshold of a magnificent martyrdom, and cause his deprivation from an eternal felicity!
Shemr went and Abbas Ebne Ali came to Imam. Then, Zohair said to Abbas: Do you want me to narrate a story for you and repeat what I myself heard?
Abbas said: yes.
Zohair Ebne Qeyr related the story of Ali’s request from Aqil for introducing to him a lady from the tribe of brave men to give birth to a son for him, and added: Your father, Ali, wanted to reserve you for such a day. Beware not to spare in helping and supporting your brothers!
Abbas replied: Are you going to encourage and give hope to me? By God, today I will exhibit what you have never seen, and will create an epic which you have never heard ….
Respite at night of Ashura
It was in the afternoon of ninth of Moharram. Day was ending, but it seemed that war is inevitable. Sun was setting to hide its bloody face under the mask of sunset.
The acclamations of Kufa host was heard by Imam’s companions. It seemed that they are preparing themselves for attack. They assumed wrongly that they can compel Hossein people to compromise and submission. However, the truth party sought felicity in martyrdom and paradise under the shade of swords: ????? ???? ???? ??????
Omar Sad (commander of Kufa host) ordered for attack. Enemy’s forces became ready, and some of them rushed towards the camp of Imam Hossein (a.s.). The noise of their horses hoofs was becoming nearer and nearer.
Imam, who was inside the tent, commissioned his brother, Abbas to find their purpose and intention. The master of youths in paradise, Prophet’s beloved grandson, and head of martyrs in the world told his brother: May I be thy ransom! Ride on the horse and go to see what do they say, what do they want, and why they have rushed towards here.
The brave Abbas with twenty of companions went towards the assailants to negotiate with them. Abbas stated the message of Imam and asked about their purpose. They said: Hossein Ebne Ali shall either submit to and obey the governor of Kufa and page homage to Yazid or engage in a battle.
Abbas came back quickly to inform Imam about the issue. Then, some of the companions of Abbas, such as, Zohair Ebne Qin and Habib Ebne Mazaher talked with them, and admonished them not to fight with Hossein, and do not stain themselves with killing Prophet’s grandson. But they did not pay any attention.
Imam replied: we will never compromise and pay homage, but are ready for battle. Now, Abbas, my brother, go and if you can, ask them respite for tonight till next morning. I want to pray God tonight. I love prayer and recitation of Quran and invocation and asking God’s forgiveness.
The respite was given. A part of troopers of Omar Sa’d were located at the north of Hossein’s caravan, and had somehow encircled them to prevent joining of reinforcement forces to Imam camp or taking water or escape ….
Kufa host and its commanders with a wishful thinking, still were hopeful for tomorrow and submission of Hossein Ebne Ali, and taking him to the ruler, Abidellah Ebne Ziad.
Abbas was the inseparable soul of Hossein. At this time, during the night visit of Imam Hossein (a.s.) and Omar Sa’d in a location between the two camps, Imam tried to prevent Omar Sa’d from warfare. Imam told to all his companions, save Abbas and Ali Akbar to leave him alone. Omar Sa’d too was with his son and slave. Presence of Abbas beside Imam Hossein (a.s.) in such a critical visit and negotiation, shows his high station with Imam. He loved Imam, and also was obedient to him.
Night of manifestation of fidelity
The night of Ashura was the last night for the companions of Aba Abdellah. The next day was the day of devotion and epic, the day of proving claim for truthfulness and faithfulness, the day of self-sacrifice and proximity to God, losing life amorously for the religion, not fearing of death, and smiling to death.
At that night, Imam Hossein (a.s.) confided to the companions the last utterances and the last word. He gathered all companions in a tent. After praising Allah, he addressed them with an aloud and epic voice, and talked of the pitched battle on the next day and the big number of enemies and the destiny of martyrdom. He said anyone who stays with us, will be martyred; anyone willing to go, can go, and there is not any hindrance, and tomorrow, any sword coming out of the sheath, will not get back to the sheath anymore.
And silence, …. Anyone who wills can go at darkness of night. Those who may go, had already went. Those who had stayed, were ardent, loyal, steady, faithful, seeking for martyrdom and irony resolved. Imam’s utterance was not finished that the companions responded for fidelity.
The first one who stood up and declared his fidelity and struggle up to the last drop of blood, was Abbas. The others too followed him and replied:
Why we shall go? Where we shall go? Shall we go to remain alive after you? God may not bring such a day! What we can say to the people? When we come back to them, can we say that we left alone our master, leader and support among the swords, arrows and spears, and escaped for desiring life? We seek refuge in God! Rather, we will live with your life, and die with you.
After Abbas, the phrases of other companions too had a wave of truthfulness and fidelity. What the son of Aqil said, the rousing utterance of Moselm Ebne Aousseheh and Saeid Ebne Abdellah, the epic utterances of Zohair Ebne Qin, loyalty of Mohammad Ebne Bashir, even what the young Qassem said who called martyrdom with the dear uncle sweeter than honey, all and all are manifestations from their ample faith.
Imam companions went to their tents both to prepare their arm for the battle on tomorrow and to pray.
But in the last night, Abbas had a particular commission. He was the watchful eye of Imam’s camp and the untiring hero of the front of truth. He had the responsibility of guarding and protecting the tents. Riding on the horse, with a girdle of sword and a lance at hand, he was guarding around the tents to let the children and women to sleep comfortably and fearlessly, and be secure from the aggression and offensiveness of the enemy.
At that night, the enemy was tremulous, and Hossein’s children were sleeping quiet. But at eleventh night, when Abbas was martyred, there was a reverse situation and fear and terror had settled in the heart of children of Prophet Household.
Abbas Ebne Ali was continuously remembering God at night of Ashura and watched till morning. No one dared to approach the tents of Prophet Household. The night passed, a distressful and fearful night, and an epic day and bloody morning rose to witness the fidelity of Abbas and epic of the sincere companions of Aba Abdellah (a.s.).
Day of blood, day of martyrdom
In the morning of Ashura, the two hosts confronted with each other, the host of fire and the host of light. Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) organized his few companions (less than one hundred). Zohair as the commander of the right wing of the host and Habib as the commander of left wing. He gave the standard to the powerful hands of his brother, Abalfazl, and he himself and Hashemite were in the heart of the host.
Bearing standard in the battlefields had a critical role in the past. The standard-bearers were selected from among the most rigorous and strongest of faithful forces. Imam gave the standard to Abbas because “The moon of Hashemite” was the most capable and competent for carrying the standard, resistance in the field, steadiness in fighting.
Ashura was the scene of conveying the message, giving ultimatum and warning. Imam and his typical companions talked to the host of enemy several times to awaken their conscience as a result of these discourses and sermons, and avoid shedding the blood of Prophet’s grandson. But they were too heard-hearted to be affected by these sermons and warnings.
The distance of tent camp to the battle-field was a few hundred meters. In one of the stages that Imam went to the battle, and lectured addressing them, his sister heard his voice. The women and children screamed in agony. Hazrat sent Abbas and Ali Akbar to quiet them, as they have to weep more afterward.
The fight started, and first there was single combat between the valorous warriors from the both parties. The small and high-powered host of Imam scattered enemy both in single combat and troop rush with their valiant attacks.
The earth trembled under their steady paces. They fought and were wounded. They rolled on the earth and were killed, and created the most beautiful eternal epics.
Abbas Ebne Ali was leading and commanding, with the standard on his shoulder, and did not rest even for a moment from the morning of Ashura till martyrdom. Once he helped the wounded. Once he relieved a warrior from the enemy’s siege. Once he engaged in the flash attacks, and split enemy’s lines. He roared and groaned like a lion.
Once, four of Imam companions who had came from Kufa to join them, and had the horse of Nafe Ebne Helal, were fighting in the battlefield and were encircled by Kufa host. They were Amro Ebne Khaled, Sa’d, Majmae Ebne Abdollah and Jenadat Ebne Hareth. The situation was critical and called for Abalfazl’s support. Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) called his brother, Abbas and sent him to help them. In one attack, Abbas scared the enemy, and they were saved. They were wounded. Abbas wanted to move them to the rear line to Imam. But they said: Whereto are you moving us, Abbas? We have resolved for martyrdom. Leave us. Again they engaged in warfare. They rushed and the standard-bearer of Karbala accompanied them, and defended them. They fought all together till all were martyred besides each other.
The enemy’s rush was increasing, and the number of martyrs in the Imam front was becoming more and more.
When the situation was critical, Abbas rushed and put to rout the Kufi’s. He was the cause of tranquility for Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.). He encouraged his brothers to fighting. He told his three brothers to go to the battlefield and defend Imam. All three of his brothers were martyred.
On Ashura, the battle was continued after noon. Imam’s companions were fell on the earth. Nafe Ebne Helal, Abes Shakeri, Habib Ebne Mazaher, Moslem Ebne Aousehe, Horr, Joon, Zohair Ebne Qin, Hanzaleh, Amro Ebne Jenadeh, and many more were martyred. Thirst dominated Imam’s camp.
It was the turn of Hashemite youths. Ali Akbar was the first of Hashemite who was martyred. The others too followed him. But Abbas, still had the standard of battle firmly at his hand, and was beside Imam Hossein like a shade. He had shielded his life to protect Hossein.
Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) was dying of thirst. He rode on the horse, and went to the height overlooking Euphrates. He wanted to find access to the water of Euphrates, and quench his thirst. Abbas too was beside and watching him. It was instructed to Kufa host to hinder entry of Imam to Euphrates, because they knew that if Imam drinks water, he will be refreshed, and their casualties will become heavy. A group formed a line in front of Imam, and shooting arrow at Imam started. There were five hundred guards for the water. They separated Imam and Abbas. They gathered around Abbas to separate him from Hossein Ebne Ali. But Abbas alone had a severe conflict with them, and was wounded. Then, he came to Imam (a.s.).
Epic in the Euphrates bank
For a gallant warrior like Abbas, the most difficult responsibility is to remain for the last opportunity. For him who had a soul full of faith, and a heart rich in enthusiasm and desire for martyrdom remaining till the latest moments of Ashura and suffering such heartbreaks and grief for the death of brothers and companions, loneliness and oppression to Sayedoshohada was very heavy, but it was an obligation on him.
The forces commanded by Abbas were martyred. What could he do as a commander without any host? The single warlord with no host felt loneliness and depression. When he saw what bright stars are fallen into ground of Karbala, and what free heroes are weltered in their blood, and the faithful and sincere bothers, nephews and companions have slept on the molten sandy land of Karbala, the eager to join them created a strange heat inside him, and his extreme ardor to martyrdom, brought him to Imam Hossein to ask for permission for the final combat.
But Imam did not give permission, and said: ??? ???? ????? (You are my standard-bearer), that is, if you go to the battlefield and are martyred, the standard of Hossein’s host will be fallen down. He alone was like a host for Imam Hossein. He was supporter of Imam, defender of tents, and an obstruction for enemies to rush to the women and children.
But Abbas was too impatience for warfare and martyrdom to be hindered. He insisted Imam for giving permission to him to go to the battle field. He said: I am feeling depressed and heavy-hearted for these hypocrites. I would like to revenge myself on them.
It was true. Abbas was heart-broken for such a lot of martyrs. Preventing this lion of bravery and the high sample of gallantry was difficult. On the other hand, the children were thirsty, and Abbas was in the position of water-carrier and providing water for the tents.
Abbas himself was thirsty, but when he looked at restiveness of children of Imam Hossein (a.s.) and caravan of Karbala, and saw their pale faces and dry lips, and hollow water bags, and heard the moans of crying thirsty children, he forgot his own thirst.
Imam told Abbas: now that you want to go, you may go to provide some water for these thirsty children, either request water from the enemy or bring it from Euphrates. Now, you can go to battlefield and fight with these vile men.
Abalfazl headed for Kufa host, preached and warned them against God’s wrath, and addressed Ebne Sa’d:
O, son of Sa’d, here is Hossein, son of Prophet’s daughter. You killed his companions and relatives. His family and children are thirsty. Let them to have some water as they are dying of thirst, …
Abbas utterance made them to think. Some of them felt pity and their eyes filled with tear. But Shemr shouted: O son of Ali, if the land is full of water, and under our control, we will never give a drop of it to you, unless you accept to pay homage to Yazid.
What Abbas could say or do against such a lot of vileness, meanness and indecency? He returned to his brother and informed him about their obstinacy. He heard again the voice of children: water, water, ….
Abbas found that with these dry lips, pale faces and weak eyes, they are subject to death. He could not imagine that Abbas is alive, and children of Imam to be in such condition? He mounted on the horse. Put a water bag on his shoulder, and took the sword and raid toward Euphrates. He rushed so vigorously that tore their encirclement and reached water. Filled the water bag to bring it to the waterless tents and dry lips.
His heart was burning of thirst, and the cool and pleasant water of Euphrates was waving before him. He wanted to take some water with his hands and drink, but surf of humanitarian feeling and a wave of fidelity welled in his mind, and remembered the thirsty lips of Imam Hossein and his children. Shall he drink or not? It was the trial of fidelity and struggle of intellect and love.
Abbas and Hossein’s life was related. They were one spirit in two bodies. How the faithful Abbas could drink from the pleasant water of Euphrates, while Hossein’s lips are dried of thirst? Never, a faithful brother shall not do so. He addressed himself:
O my self! You shall not be alive after Hossein! Hossein is subject to death and martyrdom, and do you want to drink cool water? By God, this is not my creed.
He poured water into Euphrates, and did not drink water remembering Hossein’s thirst to receive martyrdom thirsty like his brother, and thereby to be the real teacher of fidelity.
He put the leather bag on his shoulder and moved towards the tents. Guards of Euphrates River blocked his way. Abbas had no alternative save fighting with them. The combat started between the water-carrier of Karbala and those vile men.
His hands were cut in the way of honor and chivalry to let the pen of history to write these virtues for him on the bank of the ever-running stream of goodness. The hand raised for support of truth and helping Hossein, from which issued bounty and grandeur, and had gone to bring water, was cut, but his path was not cut. His faith was firm, and his goal, eternal. Abbas had sworn to support religion and Imam forever. He was too interested to provide water for the tent and quench the thirsty men to care for protecting his life.
Once Abalfazl roared to terrify the assailants, and once he ranted. The roars of Abbas in the battle field was the extract of all shouts of truth seekers chocked back. Abbas continued his combat having sword at his left hand. One of the forces of enemy, called Hakim Ebne Tofail, waiting in an ambush behind a palm tree, struck Abalfazl’s left hand, and it was cut. But Abbas did not lose his hope, and ranted so: O, my self! Don’t fear the unbelievers! God’s mercy along with his appointed Prophet, will upon you. They cut my left hand unjustly. O God, let them taste the fire of hell.
Then, an arrow was shot to his water bag, and its water along with his hope poured on the earth.
They shot an arrow to his breast, and one used the chance and smashed an irony staff on his head. Abbas fell into the ground and was martyred after the strikes of assailants, while he was 34 years old.
In this way, the bright life finished at bloody end of martyrdom, and Abbas died beside water, after a great warfare and epic struggle, and his bloody body, split head and cut hands in the bank of Euphrates became a proof for his fidelity.
When Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.) came beside Abbas, and found his standard-bearer in blood and killed, said: Now, I lost my support, and my wisdom became ineffective.
The lifeless body of Abbas remained in the field, and Imam returned to the tents, with a lot of grief in his heart for martyrdom of his brother. He returned to make ready himself for meeting Lord, and for the last farewell with his family.
Now, by lapse of more than one thousand three hundred years from such a lot of sacrifice, courtesy, chivalry and fidelity, still the history is alive with the bounties of Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.), and his name is accompanied with fidelity, courtesy and chivalry.
The devoted warlord went to Euphrates with a thirsty lip and burned heart, but his chivalry and fidelity did not let him to drink water, while Imam, his household and children were thirsty. He came back thirsty from Euphrates to bring water for the children.
He did not drink water and left Euphrates thirsty, but the hand of thirst of Euphrates did never reach the fidelity of Abbas. Where we can find such sacrifice, and is it possible to express and include such devotion in the words?
Abalfazl’s (a.s.) hands were cut, and his hands became a banner for the free men throughout the world, and Abbas became the peerless teacher of generosity and virility.
The sanctuary of love
The bloody sun of Ashura set. Two days after the event, the purified body of the great martyr and commander of Hossein’s (a.s.) host, the water-carrier of Karbala, standard-bearer of Sayedoshohada, Abbas Ebne Ali (a.s.) was buried by a group of Bani Assad clan beside Alqameh stream. Imam Sajad (a.s.) who had gone to Karbala for burial of bodies of Karbala martyrs, when burying the bodies of Imam Hossein and Abbas, he personally went in the grave and put their bloody bodies in their graves.
The sacred tomb of Hazrat Abalfazl (a.s.) is located about three hundred meters east of the purified tomb of Imam Hossein, at a height in a way to Ghazerieh, and his tomb is apart from that of Sayedoshohada as a center for the lovers of spirituality. His divine and pleasant court too is a place for remembering God and invocation so that the needy hands may be raised towards the divine throne and recourse to the name of Abalfazl, “The Gate to the needs”.
The tomb of Hazrat Abbas has always been well received by the lovers of truth, and his pilgrims visit it reverently and with teary eyes, respecting the high rank and position of this image of fidelity and generosity. Appreciating his fidelity and sacrifice, they take lesson from the life and martyrdom of the brave soldier and commander of Karbala. This line still is continued in the Shiite culture.
Abbas has a typical station in the heart and soul of pilgrims. He is known as “The Gate to the needs”. Reverence of the name of Abbas is hidden in the heart of friend and enemy. His friends fear of false oath in his name, and his enemies too are afraid of desecration of tomb, pilgrims and sanctuary of Abalfazl.
There are so many of the great men who have visited reverentially the court of Abalfazl, and so many needy whose request has been fulfilled by God through recourse to him. Visitation from his tomb has been recommended and emphasized by religious Imams, and particular rites and instructions have been stated in the prayer and Ziarat books.
The popularity of Abalfazl Abbas in the heart of Shiite originates from affection and respect of Imams to him. Those who make a vow and feed amorously for him, enamor his generosity and chivalry. Hazrat Zahra knows Abbas as her own son, and has a particular attention to him.
One of the believers who visited the sanctuary of Imam Hossein (a.s.) every day, but that of Hazrat Abbas every week, dreamed Hazrat Zahra. He says hello to her, but she pays no heed to him. He says: May my parents be thy ransom. Why do you disregard me? She says: Because you disregard visiting my son. He says: I visit your son every day. Hazrat Zahra says: you visit my son, Hossein, but you visit less my son, Abbas.
The phrases we have previously narrated from Imam Sajad, Imam Sadiq, and Imam Zaman (a.s.) about the moon of Hashemite, indicate his high station, and fire us for visiting his sanctuary.
Imam Sadiq (a.s.) went to Iraq, and after visiting the tomb of Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.), he went towards the tomb of Abbas. He stood beside his tomb, and recited Ziarat phrases addressing him to be a sample for us for expressing respect to the holy presence of moon of Hashemites. The Ziarat phrases which has been narrated from Imam Sadiq (a.s.) through Abou Hamzeh Thamali, and is a text for visitation of his tomb and a description of moral and warfare virtues of the standard-bearer of Karbala, has emphasized on the concepts like submission, testimony, fidelity, benevolence, warfare, martyrdom, continuation of path of Badr martyrs, …. Here we will refer to the translation of parts of his Ziarat text:
Peace of God, prophets, God’s pious servants, and all martyrs and the truthful unto you, O son of Amiralmomenin!
I testify that you were obedient to Hossein Ebne Ali (a.s.), the oppressed Imam and successor of Prophet, you were truthful and faithful.
God’s curse unto your slayers, those who did not know you justly, and disregarded your reverence, and intervened between you and the water of Euphrates.
I attest that you have been martyred unjustly …
I am submissive to you and my assistance is ready for your, and my heart submits to you.
Peace unto you, O righteous and obedient Servant of Allah, Prophet, Amiralmomenin, Imam Hassan, and Imam Hossein.
I testify that you treaded on the same way of warriors and martyrs of Badr, the path of warriors for the faith, who struggled with the God’s enemies, and defended and supported God’s saints. May God may you the best, most and most perfect reward to thee.
I testify you did your best in this path. May God muster thee among the martyrs and with the saved, and bestow thee the best station in the paradise.
I testify that you did not spare anything, rather you behaved insightfully. Thou imitated and followed the pious.
May God gather us, you, His prophet and saints in residences of people of paradise and muster us with you.
source : imamreza.net
