The legacy of Imam Hussain (as) is not limited to his sacrifice on the Day of Ashura. It lives on through his words, his principles, and the guidance he left for those who seek truth and justice.
His teachings speak to the heart of humanity, calling us to live with integrity, compassion, and connection to Allah (swt)
Below, we explore seven timeless teachings from Imam Hussain (as). These lessons are not only inspiring, they are a roadmap for living a life of meaning and purpose.
Imam Hussain (as) is reported to have said, “Whoever would like an increase in his lifespan and in his sustenance should maintain relations with his kin.” (Mizan al-Hikmah, H.770)
Imam Hussain (as) taught that maintaining bonds of kinship brings blessings in both lifespan and livelihood. Family ties are more than emotional connections; they are a means of divine barakah.
In Surah Muhammad, Allah (swt) warns against severing ties by saying, “If you turn away (from Allah’s commandments), it is expected that you would make mischief in the land and cut off the ties of your kinship! These are those whom Allah (swt) has cursed: and so He has made them (spiritually) deaf and blinded their eyes (likewise).” (47:22 and 23)
Honouring our relationships and checking in with family is not just a social courtesy. It’s a spiritual responsibility.
Aba Abdillah (as) is narrated to have said, “The most open-handed of people is he who gives without expectation.” (Mizan al-Hikmah, H.2862)
For Imam Hussain (as), the highest form of giving came without strings attached. It wasn’t about praise or recognition. It was purely for the sake of Allah (swt).
The Qur’an captures this ideal of the Ahlulbayt (as) by saying in Surah al-Insan, “We feed you only for Allah’s (swt) sake; we expect neither reward nor thanks from you.” (76:9)
Such giving purifies the heart, increases sincerity, and strengthens our trust in divine reward.
Sayyid Al-Shuhada (as) ireportedly said, “Salaam (greeting of peace) has seventy rewards: sixty-nine for the one who initiates it, and one for the one who responds.” (Bihar al-Anwar, V. 78)
The Imam (as) encouraged believers to begin with peace. This simple act carries profound spiritual merit and fosters mutual respect.
The Qur’an reinforces this etiquette by telling us in Surah an-Nur, “And when you enter the houses, greet yourselves with a salutation from Allah (swt) which is blessed and goodly.” (24:61)
Starting interactions with salaam reflects humility, warmth, and a desire for unity, which are all hallmarks of true faith.
The Master of Martyrs (as) is reported to have said, “It is for the people of every time to know their Imam, obedience to whom is mandatory.” (Bihar al-Anwar, V. 23)
When asked how to attain knowledge of Allah (swt), Imam Hussain (as) pointed to the Imam of one’s time. Obedience to the Imam isn’t separate from faith; rather, it’s essential to it.
Recognising and following the rightful guide draws the believer closer to divine truth.
In our era, this means knowing and aligning with Imam Mahdi (ajtfs).
A narration from Imam Hussain (as) says, “And know that the needs of people being directed toward you are among the blessings of Allah (swt) upon you. So do not tire of these blessings, lest they turn into hardships.” (Bihar al-Anwar, V. 78)
When someone turns to you for help, Imam Hussain (as) reminds us it’s not a burden. It’s a blessing. Allah (swt) has entrusted you with a chance to be of service.
Instead of growing weary, we’re urged to embrace such moments with gratitude and care.
Aba Abdillah (as) is reported to have said, “Whoever relieves a believer’s distress, Allah (swt) will relieve their difficulties in this world and the Hereafter.” (Bihar al-Anwar, V. 78)
When you lift a burden from someone else, the Imam (as) tells us Allah (swt) will lift ours in this world and the next. It’s a reminder of how deeply connected we are through compassion.
Even a small act of care can bring divine relief and transform someone’s day, and maybe even their life.
Sayyid Al-Shuhada (as) is reported to have said, “’Death with dignity is better than living with disgrace.” (Bihar al-Anwar, V. 44)
Imam Hussain (as) chose martyrdom over allegiance to oppression, showing that honour matters more than survival. His stance was not only courageous but deeply rooted in faith and principle.
The Qur’an echoes this sentiment by saying in Surah al-Baqarah, “Do not speak of those who are slain in the way of Allah (swt) as dead; nay, they are alive, but you do not perceive (how they live).” (2:154)
To stand for truth, even when the cost is life, is to attain a higher form of existence, one honoured by Allah (swt).
The words of Imam Hussain (as) continue to guide generations long after Karbala. His teachings remind us to live with integrity, serve with sincerity, and uphold justice even in the face of adversity.
By reflecting on his wisdom and aligning our actions with these timeless values, we honour his sacrifice in the most meaningful way.
Silat al-rahm is a deeply emphasized value in Islam. The Prophet (saww) and the Ahlulbayt (as) taught that maintaining kinship brings blessings, increases lifespan, and strengthens the fabric of the Muslim community. Breaking family ties, on the other hand, is condemned in both the Qur’an and hadith.
In Shia belief, the Imam is the divinely appointed guide of each era. Recognizing and following the Imam connects the believer to true guidance. As Imam Hussain (as) explained, obedience to the Imam is essential for gaining deeper knowledge of Allah (swt).
True generosity is measured not by how much one gives, but by the sincerity behind it. Giving without expecting recognition or return reflects selflessness and trust in Allah’s (swt) reward. This type of giving is praised throughout the Qur’an.
Helping others is seen as both a moral responsibility and a source of immense reward. From relieving someone’s hardship to responding to those in need, Islam encourages believers to be a source of comfort and support.
Initiating peace reflects humility and a desire to build unity. The Prophet (saww) frequently encouraged saying “salaam” first, and Imam Hussain (as) highlighted the spiritual reward that comes from doing so. It is a small act with great impact.
