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✉️ 3rd Muharram 61 A.H. — A Plea from the Plains of Karbala

📜 Siege Tightens and a Plea is Sent

By the 3rd of Muharram, Umar ibn Sa‘d arrived at Karbala with a large army, completing the encirclement initiated by Hurr’s forces. The political threat became a military siege. Amid increasing tension, Imam al‑Hussain (a.s.) wrote a heartfelt message to his longtime friend in Kufa, Habib ibn Mazahir, inviting him to join the cause.

💌 The Letter to Habib ibn Mazahir

According to historical narratives, on the 3rd of Muharram, Imam al‑Hussain (a.s.) sent a secret letter via a messenger who entered Kufa covertly at night:

“Falsehood may gather many followers, but truth will find few friends. My dear Habib, the vultures of Yazid are gathering around me in Karbala. Hastening to join me would serve the righteous cause.”

This narration is preserved in later Maqtal works like Lohoof, Tears of Karbala, and Nafasul Mahmoom.

👥 Who Was Habib ibn Mazahir?

Habib ibn Muzahir al-Asadi was a revered companion of the Prophet (S.A.W.A), that of Imam Ali (a.s.), and the Imam’s household. Originally living in Kufa, he was among the first to invite Imam al‑Hussain (a.s.) after Mu‘awiyah’s death. When the people of Kufa withdrew support, Habib remained loyal and later traveled to Karbala, arriving after 6th Muharram according to many sources.

🧠 Reflection on 3rd Muharram

  • The siege escalated into military clarity with Umar ibn Sa‘d’s force tightening the blockade.

  • The letter to Habib was a final call — bridging spiritual need and emotional plea.

  • Though the siege looped around Karbala physically, the plea spoke to hearts still in Kufa.

Imam al‑Hussain (a.s.) placed trust both in Allah and in the promise of genuine loyalty, even as enemies closed in.

🕊 Final Thought

The 3rd of Muharram was more than a military move — it was an emotional watershed. Imam al‑Hussain (a.s.) sent out a message across the walls of Kufa, putting faith in the humanity and integrity of his old friend. Even in the face of inevitable sacrifice, he chose sincerity and hope over despair.


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