“Usaam Ibn Mustalaq narrates: In one of my journeys to Medina, I saw Hussain Ibn Ali (PBUH), and became fond of his attractive face and kind gesture. The hatred that I had kept deep within me towards his father increased my jealousy, so I went toward him with every intention of bad mouthing. I asked him: “Are you the son of Abu Turab (Ali)?” He confirmed.
And then began cursing him and his father as much as I could. As soon as I became exhausted and paused from cursing, he looked at me kindly and recited the following verse:
“O Our Messenger! Keep to forgiveness and enjoin kindness, and turn away from the ignorant. If a suggestion from Satan assails your mind, seek refuge with Allah; surely He is Hearing, Knowing. The pious people, when a thought of evil from Satan assaults them, they bring Allah to remembrance at that very moment, and they gain an insight! Their brothers (the evil ones), however, (the Satans from Jinn and Men) plunge them deeper into error, and never remiss in misleading the evils ones.” (1)
He then continued: “Take it easy upon yourself. I ask Allah’s forgiveness for you and myself. If you want any help from us, we will be happy to help you. If you need anything (in Medina) we will be glad to provide it for you. If you need guidance, we will guide you to your destination (without any hesitation).”
Shame filled my body as I remembered what I had done. The Imam however, reminded me of the verse about Joseph’s brothers, and how they were regretful of their actions:
“Now have no shame! May Allah forgive you, and He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy.”(2)
Then Hussain (PBUH) asked: “Are you from Shaam?” I said: “Yes.” He said: “may Allah (SWT) protect us and you. Now, without hesitation and fear, ask us your requests. God-willing you will find me in the best state (of hospitality).”
I was so ashamed because of his generous reaction that I felt the whole earth had tightened around me, and I had wished it could swallow me down. I then slowly distanced myself from him, while I had come to realize I loved no other more than Hussain and his father.
(Reference: “The Comprehensive Encyclopedia of the Statements of Imam Hussain (PBUH)” by Ali Mua’yyedi)
Dear Muslims and seekers of justice, please accept Roshd website’s congratulations on the third of Sha’ban, the blessed birthday of Imam Hussain (PBUH): the essence of piety, the leader of justice, and the mirror of bravery and blessing.
Footnotes:
1- The Holy Quran, 7:199-202
2- The Holy Quran, 12:92