The Narrative of the Life of Imam Hussain across Five Eras‍

The life of Imam Hussain is generally narrated — if at all — on the last few months of his life, culminating in his martyrdom on the plains of Karbala. However, Imam Hussain was over 50 years old when he was martyred. He was born while the Prophet Muhammad, his grandfather, was still alive, and he was raised in his shadow.

He witnessed the turbulent leadership battles following his grandfather's death, the political opposition and sharp protest speeches of his mother, Sayyida Fatima, the short-lived caliphate of his father, Imam Ali, and the brief rule and subsequent virtual house arrest of his brother, Imam Hasan.

Through this platform, we bring to life Hussain's story through a historically rigorous and engaging literary narrative that focuses on the longer arc of the Imam’s life: his character, his values, and how he expressed those in the historical context of his time. His message is as relevant for humanity today as it was during his own historical period. Hussain’s voice was not lost in the year 680 C.E. when he was martyred — it remains an Ark of Salvation and Lamp of Guidance for all those who strain to hear it.

The life of Imam Hussain is generally narrated — if at all — on the last few months of his life, culminating in his martyrdom on the plains of Karbala.

However, Imam Hussain was over 50 years old when he was martyred. He was born while the Prophet Muhammad, his grandfather, was still alive, and he was raised in his shadow.

He witnessed the turbulent leadership battles following his grandfather's death, the political opposition and sharp protest speeches of his mother, Sayyida Fatima, the short-lived caliphate of his father, Imam Ali, and the brief rule and subsequent virtual house arrest of his brother, Imam Hasan.

Through this platform, we bring to life Hussain's story through a historically rigorous and engaging literary narrative that focuses on the longer arc of the Imam’s life: his character, his values, and how he expressed those in the historical context of his time.

His message is as relevant for humanity today as it was during his own historical period. Hussain’s voice was not lost in the year 680 C.E. when he was martyred — it remains an Ark of Salvation and Lamp of Guidance for all those who strain to hear it.