Ashura; An Example of Implementation of Quran’s Political Teachings
The Quran in various verses calls on people to stand up against Kufr (disbelief) and those advocating it and Islam’s goal is preventing the enemies from gaining dominance over believers.
The path of Imam Hussein (AS) is the path of monotheism, love of God and striving on the path of God.
During the Ashura event and in each and every second of it, Imam Hussein (AS) implemented the teachings of the Quran with strong faith in God.
Ashura is not just a historical event that happened centuries ago and is commemorated every year with mourning rituals. Ashura is an influential event that has played and will continue play a role in human history. It can give one’s life dynamism and vitality and offer a new plan in politics and governance. The everlasting uprising of Ashura is not a violent one originated in violence. Rather, Imam Hussein (AS) sought to reform the Islamic Ummah step by step and through Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. When the strategy of dialogue did not yield results, Imam Hussein (AS) launched his movement and acted upon his duty.
Abbas Mahmoud Aqad, a contemporary Egyptian writer, believes that the confrontation between those like Imam Hussein (AS) who pursue ideals and individuals like Yazid always exists.
When the leaders of Kufr reject reform and trample upon the interests of the society in contradiction to all human criteria and commitments and think about nothing but their own desires and interests, there would be need for action in order to reform the society.
God says in Verse 73 of Surah At-Tawbah: “Prophet, fight the unbelievers and hypocrites vehemently for the cause of God.”
In another verse, God highlights the goal of sending messengers, which is paving the way for people’s life and growth, which requires forming a government and implementing religious rulings: “We sent Our Messengers with clear evidence (to support their truthfulness), and sent with them the Book and the Balance so that people would maintain justice. We sent down iron - in which there is strong power and benefit for the people - so that God would know who would help Him and His Messenger without seeing the unseen. God is All-powerful and Majestic.” (Verse 25 of Surah Al-Hadid)
Ashura is paving the way for realization of Islamic government and introducing true Islam’s objectives. Imam Hussein (AS) rose up against injustice and oppression and sought to form a government based on the Holy Quran and the Seerah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and Imam Ali (AS).
Imam Hussein (AS) was raised in the school of Imam Ali (AS) and from such an individual, nothing is expected other than implementing the teachings of the Quran.
