Muharram 2 in the Islamic calendar is traditionally believed to be the day when Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, arrived in Karbala. This event took place in the year 680 AD (61 AH).
After departing from Mecca and making his way towards Kufa, Imam Hussain’s journey was redirected to Karbala due to various circumstances, including the betrayal and shifting loyalties of the people in Kufa who had initially pledged their support. The city of Karbala, located in present-day Iraq, became the destination where Imam Hussain and his small group of companions ultimately arrived.
Upon reaching Karbala, Imam Hussain and his followers established their camp near the banks of the Euphrates River. However, the peaceful encampment was soon surrounded by a large Umayyad army, under the command of Umar ibn Sa’ad, who was ordered by the Umayyad caliph, Yazid ibn Mu’awiya, to prevent Imam Hussain from reaching Kufa and gaining further support.
The arrival of Imam Hussain to Karbala marked a crucial turning point in the series of events leading up to the Battle of Karbala. It was in Karbala that the tragic confrontation between the small group of Imam Hussain’s supporters and the vast Umayyad army would take place.
Over the following days, the situation in Karbala escalated, and tensions between the two camps grew. The Umayyad forces, having cut off access to water and supplies for Imam Hussain’s camp, intensified the pressure on the small group.
The events that unfolded in Karbala culminated in the Battle of Karbala, which took place on the 10th day of Muharram, known as the day of Ashura. On this fateful day, Imam Hussain, along with his companions, faced overwhelming odds as they stood against the oppressive forces of Yazid.
The Battle of Karbala resulted in the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his loyal companions. The tragedy of Karbala has had a profound impact on Islamic history and culture, particularly for the Shia Muslim community, who commemorate the event annually during the month of Muharram, with special emphasis on the day of Ashura. The memory of Imam Hussain’s sacrifice serves as a reminder of the importance of standing against injustice and upholding the principles of truth and righteousness, even in the face of adversity.