To guide and lead the people, Allah sent his chosen people from time to time. After the prophets (A.S.), the Ahlul Bayt (A.S.) were endowed with the mission of enlightening humanity about justice, piety, and truth. One of the eminent individuals in this group was Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.), the son of Imam Hussain (A.S.), who was blessed with the title of ‘Shabih-e-Rasool’ (the one who resembled the Prophet SAAW).
Birth, Lineage, and Family: Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) was born in Medina in the month of Sha’ban, 33 AH. He was the son of Imam Hussain (A.S.) and the grandson of Imam Ali (A.S.). His mother was Hazrat Layla bint Abu Murrah ibn Urwah ibn Masood Thaqafi, who belonged to the noble Thaqafi tribe.
Resemblance to the Prophet (SAAW): Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) had the special honor of resembling the Prophet Muhammad (SAAW) in his appearance, character, gait, and diction. It is narrated that whenever people yearned to see the Messenger of Allah (SAAW), they would tenderly gaze at Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.). Imam Hussain (A.S.) once said about him: “Whenever we longed for the presence of our grandfather, the Messenger of Allah (SAAW), we would look at Ali Akbar.”
Character and Morality: Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) inherited the virtues of his forefathers – piety, patience, courage, and generosity. Hospitality, truthfulness, humility, and devotion to worship were his distinctive traits. He was a beacon of knowledge and wisdom, and his impeccable morals were hallowed by all.
Role in Karbala: During the battle of Karbala, Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) stood firmly behind his father, Imam Hussain (A.S.). On the day of Ashura, when Imam Hussain (A.S.) called for prayer, Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) was the first to attend.
When he sought permission for battle, Imam Hussain (A.S.) was emotionally moved, yet he did not hesitate to sacrifice his son for the cause of Allah. With tears in his eyes, Imam Hussain (A.S.) raised his hands in prayer: “O Allah! Bear witness that I am sending to fight the one who most closely resembles your Prophet in appearance, character, and speech.”
Bravery in Battle: Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) fought valiantly. He tenaciously confronted the enemy and showcased mastery in swordplay and verbal articulacy. His valor left the Yazidi army wide-eyed.
As the battle raged on and thirst left every mouth dry, he returned to Imam Hussain (A.S.) and requested water. Imam Hussain (A.S.) replied: “My son! Be patient for a little longer. Soon, you will drink from the blessed hands of our grandfather the Messenger of Allah (SAAW) at Hoz-e-Kausar, and you will never thirst again.”
Hearing this, Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) re-entered the battlefield with renewed determination and battled stalwartly.
Martyrdom: Eventually, the enemies orchestrated a concerted assault on him. A ruthless soldier lunged at him with a spear, struck him, and caused him to fall from his horse. As he lay wounded, he called out: “Father! Accept my final salutation!”
Imam Hussain (A.S.) rushed to him, cradled his head in his lap, and said: “My son! Life after you has no meaning for me.”
Raising his hands towards the heavens, Imam Hussain (A.S.) prayed: “O Allah! Inflict your punishment upon these oppressors!”
The martyrdom of Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) was one of the most heart-rending moments for Imam Hussain (A.S.), for he was the living image of the Prophet (SAAW).
Conclusion: The life of Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.) serves as an inspiration for the youth. His life account carries lessons about the values of truth, patience, steadfastness, generosity, and ultimate sacrifice.
We ought to follow the footsteps of these heroes, who never skirted around the issues of ummah and the society and offered the ultimate sacrifice to uphold justice, integrity, peace, and morality.
May Allah grant us the ability to follow the teachings of Hazrat Ali Akbar (A.S.). Ameen!
