On the sixth day of Muharram, Habib b. Mazahir al-Asadi, one of the companions of Imam Hussain (as), went to seek the help of Banu Asad, a clan of ‘Adnani Arabs who resided near Karbala’. However, they refused to join him or support Imam Hussain (as) in his stand against the army of Yazid b. Mu’awiya. Banu Asad were mostly known for their Shiism and two of their members, Habib b. Mazahir and Muslim b. ‘Awsaja, were among the martyrs of Karbala
Habib ibn Mazahir was a loyal companion of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who led a small group of supporters against the oppressive rule of Yazid ibn Muawiya. Imam Hussein and his followers, who included Habib ibn Mazahir, were en route to Kufa in Iraq when they were intercepted by the forces of Yazid in Karbala.
In the context of the Battle of Karbala, Habib ibn Mazahir sent a call for help to the tribe of Banu Asad, who were known for their bravery and influence among the Arab tribes. However, despite their fame, the tribe of Banu Asad, fearing the consequences of opposing the powerful Umayyad caliph Yazid, did not provide the expected support to Imam Hussein and his companions.
Ultimately, Imam Hussein and his small band of supporters were vastly outnumbered and faced severe deprivation during the Battle of Karbala. They were tragically martyred, and the events of Karbala have since become central to the collective memory and identity of Shia Islam. The commemoration of Muharram and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein serves as a solemn reminder of standing against injustice and oppression.