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Imam Hussain

Imam Hussain, more fully Husayn ibn Ali, was a grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali and Fatima.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Imam Hussain, more fully Husayn ibn Ali, was a grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali and Fatima. He is regarded as the third Imam in Shia Islam and is remembered for his death at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, which became a central event in Islamic history and Shia religious memory. His refusal to pledge allegiance to the Umayyad caliph Yazid is a defining element of his legacy.

Early life

Husayn ibn Ali was born in Medina in 626 CE, with sources commonly giving 3rd, 4th, or 5th Sha'ban in 4 AH as his birth date. He was raised in the household of Muhammad and belonged to the Ahl al-Bayt.

Role in Shia Islam

In Shia belief, he is the third Imam and a divinely guided leader after his brother Hasan ibn Ali. His life is treated as a model of moral leadership and steadfastness.

Battle of Karbala

Husayn was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, along with many family members and supporters. The event is one of the most significant in Islamic history, especially for Shia Muslims.

Legacy and commemoration

His martyrdom is commemorated during Ashura and other remembrance rituals. He is often presented as a symbol of justice, sacrifice, and opposition to oppression. In Canada, Shia Muslim communities observe Ashura and related commemorations in mosques, community centres, and public gatherings across the country.

Key facts

  • He was the second son of Ali and Fatima and a grandson of Muhammad.
  • Shia Muslims regard him as the third Imam after Hasan ibn Ali.
  • He was killed on 10 Muharram 61 AH at Karbala.
  • His refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid became a defining element of his legacy.
  • His martyrdom is commemorated especially during Ashura and related mourning rituals.
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Canadian context

Imam Hussain is significant for Canada’s Muslim communities, especially Shia Muslims, who observe Ashura and related commemorations in mosques, community centres, and public gatherings across the country.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Imam Hussain?
Imam Hussain was Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Muhammad and the son of Ali and Fatima. In Shia Islam, he is the third Imam.
Why is Imam Hussain important?
He is remembered for his stand at Karbala and his refusal to accept Yazid’s authority, making him a major symbol of justice and sacrifice.
When did Imam Hussain die?
He died in 680 CE, corresponding to 10 Muharram 61 AH, at Karbala in present-day Iraq.
Where was Imam Hussain born?
He was born in Medina, in the Arabian Peninsula, in 626 CE.
What is Ashura's connection to Imam Hussain?
Ashura marks 10 Muharram, the day of his death at Karbala, and is a major day of mourning for Shia Muslims.

References

  1. Al-Islam.org — https://al-islam.org/imam-husayn-saviour-islam/life-imam-husayn
    Supports: Birth in Medina in 4 AH; family background; Shia religious significance.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/al-Husayn-ibn-Ali-Muslim-leader-and-martyr
    Supports: Identity, family relationship to Muhammad, and death at Karbala in 680 CE.
  3. IslamPlus — https://islamplus.net/English/article/article/609
    Supports: Birth in 4 AH; death on 10 Muharram 61 AH; role after Hasan's martyrdom.
  4. Al Abbas Holy Shrine / Imam Hussain shrine publication — https://imamhussain.org/english/46532
    Supports: Third Imam of Ahl al-Bayt; Karbala legacy and religious significance.
  5. Al-Islam.org — https://al-islam.org/person/imam-husayn
    Supports: Grandson of Muhammad; son of Ali and Fatima; third Shia Imam.