Imam Hussain (AS) revered by people for his humility and simplicity

Throughout history and across the globe, devotees of the Prophet’s Ahlul-Bayt (AS) regard the Month of Muharram as a chance to pay homage and remember the extraordinary legacy of Imam Hussain (AS). It is undoubtedly the most pivotal and glorious chapter in his radiant life, marked by the events of Karbala and the circumstances leading to his martyrdom. However, the life of Hussain ibn Ali (AS) was not confined to Karbala alone; his moral and spiritual virtues shone brightly throughout various stages of his life, serving as a beacon of inspiration and guidance

The following text is a summary of the book The Beauty of Morality: A Glance at the Virtues of Imam Hussain (AS) written by the late Grand Ayatollah Sheikh Lutfullah Safi Golpayegani, translated and published by Shafaqna.

The Pinnacle of Humility

From Modesty to Honor

As one’s knowledge, faith in God, wisdom, and insight increase, so too does their humility and
modesty. Human pride, on the other hand, stems from ignorance, puerility, negligence, and
selfishness. The Quran and Hadith condemn pride in the strongest terms, while extolling the
virtues of humility.

Imam Hussain (AS) was revered by the people for his humility and simplicity. When he and his brother, Imam Hassan (AS), would embark on the pilgrimage to Mecca on foot, the men and scholars who accompanied them would dismount their horses and walk alongside them out of respect. Imam Hussain’s (AS) esteem was not due to his grandeur, wealth, or entourage, but rather his humility and willingness to live among the people.

He would spend his days in simplicity, socializing with the poor, attending congregational prayers, visiting the sick, and participating in funeral processions. He would accept the invitations of the poor and host them, and would bring food and sustenance to the needy, the orphans, the widows, and the
destitute.

When the army of oppressors and the cruel people of Kufa desecrated his sacred body, they
noticed that his shoulder still showed signs of carrying a heavy load. They asked about the
reason for this, and Imam Sajjad (AS) replied: “It is the lingering effect of the heavy loads he used to
carry on his blessed shoulder in Medina, which he would bring to the homes of the poor,
orphans, and widows.” 1

Note:

1 Manāqib, vol. 2, p. 222.

Part of Book: Beauty of Morality by the late Ayatollah Sheikh Lutfullah Safi Golpayegani