In a world where Muslims are 1.9 billion strong, it is a reality that’s hard to ignore. We hold political influence, economic power, and a remarkable global presence. Our reach spans continents, and our contributions to the world’s culture, history, and resources are undeniable. Yet, despite all these advantages, our collective voice often seems muted in the face of grave injustice, oppression, and corruption. From occupied lands to persecuted communities, from economic disparity to widespread moral decay, Muslims find themselves silent in a world that desperately needs change. This silence begs the question: What would Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA), the silent hero of Karbala, say if he were among us today?
Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA): The Silent Voice of Resistance
Born on 5th Sha’ban 38 AH (658 CE) in Madinah, Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA), also known as Imam Sajjad (RA), witnessed some of the most traumatic events in Islamic history. He was the son of Imam Hussain (RA) and the great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). His life is an example of patience, resistance, and reform, even when surrounded by the most harrowing of circumstances.
Imam Sajjad (RA) was one of the few survivors of the brutal massacre of Karbala. After witnessing the martyrdom of his father and the family of the Prophet (SAW), Imam Sajjad (RA) was taken captive, paraded through cities, and presented in the court of Yazid. Yet, despite the immense physical and emotional suffering he endured, his response was not one of revenge, but of quiet and profound resistance.
The Power of Words and Worship
Unlike those who sought change through armed conflict, Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) wielded a different kind of power: the power of knowledge, prayer, and peaceful defiance. His famous work, Sahifa Sajjadiya (The Psalms of Islam), is a collection of heartfelt supplications and prayers that form the foundation of spiritual resistance. These duas are more than just prayers; they are an eloquent plea for justice, equality, and the preservation of truth in a world rife with corruption.
The Sahifa Sajjadiya is not just a book of supplications; it is a spiritual guide. Each prayer is a blueprint for navigating the difficult terrains of life, especially when faced with tyranny, corruption, and moral decay. Through these duas, Imam Sajjad (RA) highlighted the significance of submitting to Allah (SWT) and remaining steadfast in faith, no matter the adversity.
Imam Sajjad (RA) also authored Risalat al-Huqooq (Treatise on Rights), one of the first and most comprehensive human rights documents in Islamic history. This treatise outlined the duties and rights of individuals towards one another, from parents and neighbors to rulers and society. In an age where moral decay and tyranny were rampant, Imam Sajjad (RA) gave us a code of ethics that stood as a beacon of justice and righteousness.
Mourning as Resistance
One of the most poignant aspects of Imam Sajjad’s (RA) life was his mourning for the martyrs of Karbala. His grief was not a sign of weakness but a form of resistance. By crying for his family and the injustice they suffered, Imam Sajjad (RA) kept the memory of Karbala alive. In a time when the Umayyad regime sought to erase the truth of Karbala, Imam Sajjad (RA) ensured that the blood of the martyrs would never be forgotten.
His tears were a form of spiritual protest against the oppression and tyranny of the ruling regime. Imam Sajjad (RA) used his grief not as a means of self-pity but as a tool to awaken the hearts of others to the reality of injustice. This act of mourning, though deeply personal, became a collective movement that united the people of his time against oppression.
The Worship of a Rebel
Despite living in a time of profound political corruption, Imam Sajjad (RA) never compromised on his worship. In a society where kings and rulers demanded prostration, Imam Sajjad (RA) bowed only to Allah. His long hours of prayer became a powerful act of defiance against the materialistic world around him. While the rulers of his time accumulated power, wealth, and influence, Imam Sajjad (RA) remained a humble servant of Allah, teaching us the value of spiritual defiance.
His prayers were not just acts of personal devotion; they were statements of resistance against the arrogance and tyranny of those in power. Imam Sajjad’s (RA) worship was a constant reminder to the people that true power lies not in worldly possessions but in the submission to the Creator.
Silence in the Face of Oppression: A Painful Reflection
Today, as Muslims, we find ourselves in a paradox. Despite our economic, political, and social influence, we remain largely silent in the face of injustice. From the occupation of Palestine to the persecution of Muslims in various parts of the world, our collective voice is often muted. We scroll past the atrocities, posting on social media, but failing to act. We are quick to share opinions but slow to take action.
Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) serves as a stark reminder that silence in the face of oppression is not an option. His life teaches us that even in the most challenging circumstances, resistance does not require an army or political power. It requires faith, commitment, and the courage to speak the truth, no matter the cost.
Imam Sajjad (RA) never allowed himself to be defined by his circumstances. Even as a prisoner, deprived of his family, wealth, and freedom, he remained a beacon of truth. In today’s world, where Muslims possess unparalleled resources, we must ask ourselves why we remain silent in the face of injustice. What are we afraid of? Why do we hesitate to speak out?
Leadership in the Face of Adversity
The life of Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) is a testament to the power of character over position. He had no army, no political title, and no wealth. Yet, his influence endured for centuries. His leadership was not one of external power, but of internal strength. He proved that true leadership begins when everything is taken from you, yet your character remains unshaken.
Today, we have the tools to bring about real change: education, media, technology, and platforms for communication. Yet, we often find ourselves complacent. Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) would remind us that leadership is not about titles or material power; it is about standing firm for truth, justice, and righteousness, regardless of the circumstances.
The Need for Spiritual Resilience
In an age of materialism and corruption, we are often tempted to prioritize worldly success over spiritual integrity. Imam Sajjad (RA) teaches us that the key to true power lies in spiritual resilience. It is not enough to have political or economic influence if we lack spiritual clarity and unity.
Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) showed us that the path to true success is through unwavering faith and devotion to Allah. His life, prayers, and writings continue to serve as a spiritual compass for Muslims today. By following his example, we can navigate the challenges of our time with the same resilience and strength that he embodied.
Final Thougts
Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) may have lived centuries ago, but his message resonates more than ever in today’s world. His life reminds us that true power does not lie in worldly possessions or titles but in the strength of character and the pursuit of truth. As Muslims, we must reflect on his legacy and ask ourselves why, despite our vast resources, we remain silent in the face of oppression and injustice. Hazrat Zain-ul-Abideen (RA) would tell us that silence is not an option. Our duty is to speak out, to act with integrity, and to lead by example, just as he did.
“Real leadership begins when everything is taken from you, yet your character remains unshaken.”
Let us carry this timeless lesson forward, for in our silence, the oppressors find victory. In our action, they will find defeat.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates