Qasim ibn Hassan (as) was the teenage son of Imam Hassan (as) and the beloved nephew of Imam Hussain (as). He was martyred during the Battle of Karbala at a very young age, becoming a symbol of bravery and devotion to truth.
Qasim ibn Hasan (as) was the beloved son of Imam Hasan (as) and the devoted nephew of Imam Hussain (as).
He was just a teenager when he became one of the most heartbreaking martyrs on the Day of Ashura.
Read more about the Battle of Karbala here.
Too Young for War – But Not Too Young for Courage
On the night of Ashura, Qasim (as) asked Imam Hussain (as) if he was included in the list of martyrs.
Imam Hussain (as) then asked him:
“O my dear son! How do you consider death (martyrdom in the way of Allah) to be near you”?
Qasim replied with bravery beyond his years:
This was no ordinary response. It was the voice of a soul deeply connected to Allah (swt) and shaped by the values of Ahlulbayt (as).
A Loyal Warrior of Imam Hussain (as)
Before stepping onto the battlefield, Qasim (as) wore the garments of his father, Imam Hasan (as), honouring the values of truth and dignity that his holy family stood for.
When Qasim (as) asked Imam Hussain’s (as) permission to enter the battlefield, he was first denied. However, eventually the Imam (as) agreed.
He fought not as a boy, but as a warrior. Loyal to his uncle and to the truth Imam Hussain (as) stood for.
A Cry That Shattered Hearts
During the battle, Qasim (as) was surrounded and attacked. As the injuries overcame his young body, he called out:
“O Uncle, come to me!”
The cry of Qasim (as) pierced the soul of Imam Hussain (as), who rushed to his side. But it was too late.
Imam Hussain (as) lifted him in his arms, overwhelmed with grief, and whispered farewell to the young martyr whose bravery would go down in history.
The Timeless Legacy of Qasim ibn Hasan (as)
Qasim (as) is remembered not only for his youth but for the courage and selflessness he showed in the face of tyranny.
His story reminds us that righteousness is not bound by age, but bound by heart.
This Muharram, let his legacy inspire us to face injustice with the same clarity and conviction as Qasim (as).
Honour Qasim (as) by Creating a Legacy
Just as Qasim ibn Hasan (as) gave everything for a better future, you can honour him by supporting projects that change lives today.
Keep the message of Karbala alive through long-term, life-changing projects.
Your contribution builds a lasting legacy of Karbala for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Though historical reports vary, Qasim (as) is believed to have been around 13 or 14 years old on the Day of Ashura. Despite his young age, he displayed extraordinary courage and maturity on the battlefield.
When Imam Hussain (as) asked him, “How do you see death, O Qasim?” he responded, “Sweeter than honey.” This iconic statement has become a lasting reflection of his deep faith and willingness to sacrifice for justice.
Before going to battle, Qasim (as) wore the clothes of his father, Imam Hassan (as), symbolising the continuation of his father’s legacy of truth, sacrifice, and loyalty to the mission of Imam Hussain (as).
Qasim (as) was surrounded by enemy forces and brutally attacked. When he cried out to Imam Hussain (as) for help, his uncle rushed to him – only to find Qasim (as) lifeless. According to some narrations, he was trampled to death. His martyrdom remains one of the most heart-wrenching moments of the day.
Qasim’s (as) sacrifice is remembered for its depth of faith and emotional impact. His story teaches that standing for justice is not limited by age. During Muharram, he is honoured as a model of pure-hearted bravery and unwavering devotion.
