Dhu al-Hijjah 8 in the Islamic calendar is traditionally believed to be the day when Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, departed from the holy city of Mecca. This event occurred in the year 680 AD (61 AH).
After receiving numerous letters of support from the people of Kufa, expressing their discontent with the oppressive rule of Yazid ibn Mu’awiya, Imam Hussain decided to leave Mecca and journey towards Kufa. His decision was motivated by the overwhelming calls for his leadership and the desire to address the grievances of the Muslim community.
Before his departure, Imam Hussain held consultations with his family members and companions to assess the situation and make an informed decision. He was aware of the dangers and challenges that awaited him in Kufa, as the Umayyad regime, led by Yazid’s governor, Ubaidullah ibn Ziyad, had already started suppressing any signs of support for Imam Hussain.
Despite the risks, Imam Hussain felt a sense of responsibility to uphold the values of justice and righteousness and to resist the tyrannical rule of Yazid. He believed that his stand against oppression was crucial in preserving the true spirit of Islam.
It is important to note that Imam Hussain’s departure from Mecca was not an act of rebellion or an attempt to seize power. Instead, it was a principled stand against tyranny and injustice, and his decision was driven by a commitment to the welfare of the Muslim community and the preservation of Islamic principles.
The events that followed Imam Hussain’s departure from Mecca led to the tragic Battle of Karbala, where he and his small group of companions faced the overwhelming Umayyad army. This battle resulted in the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his companions on the day of Ashura, a day that remains etched in Islamic history as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice.
The departure of Imam Hussain from Mecca serves as a pivotal moment in the events leading up to the Battle of Karbala and has profound significance in the remembrance of the tragedy during the month of Muharram. Muslims around the world commemorate the sacrifices of Imam Hussain and his followers, drawing lessons from their unwavering dedication to justice and truth, even in the face of immense adversity.