After performing Umrah [pilgrimage performed outside of Hajj] Husain (ra) set off from Makkah towards Kufa with approximately 72 people, which comprised of members of his household, including women and children and also some of his supporters.
When he reached a place named Al-Tha’labiyyah, he received news that Muslim bin Aqil and Hani bin Urwa had been killed and that the Kufans no longer supported him. Some people in Husain’s (ra) caravan urged him to continue to Kufa, saying he would receive support once the Kufans physically see him. Husain (ra) agreed to go ahead but advised everyone who was with him that they were free to leave, as the situation had changed.
Meanwhile, Ubaidullah bin Ziyad sent Al-Hurr bin Yazid al-Tamimi with an army of 1000 men to bring Husain (ra) to him. He also gave 4000 men to Umar bin Sa’d to guard all the routes in and out of Kufa.
When Husain (ra) reached Dhu Husam, he encountered the army of Hurr. Seeing the parched state of Hurr’s army, Husain (ra) ordered for Hurr’s men and cavalry to be given water to drink. Husain (ra) also led the midday prayer and the army of Hurr prayed behind him. Husain (ra) explained the reason for his coming based on the insistence of the Kufans. But stated that if they had recanted from this, then he would turn back to Madinah. Hurr stated that he was unaware of any such correspondence; he was given orders to detain him and take him to Ubaidullah bin Ziyad to pledge allegiance to Yazid. Therefore, he could not let him turn back, nor enter Kufa. Husain (ra) responded that he would not pledge allegiance and ordered his camp to depart. However, Hurr blocked his path to Kufa forcing Husain (ra) to change course, with Hurr’s army following Husain’s (ra) every move.
Recent Comments