Blood in the Sand: How Ashura Transformed from Islamic History’s Greatest Tragedy to Peace Destroying, Sectarian Turmoil (Part 2)

TRANSCEND MEMBERS, 14 Jul 2025

Prof Hoosen Vawda – TRANSCEND Media Service

Please note that this publication contains graphics, depicting violence and death, which may be disturbing to some readers and is not suitable for general readership. Parental guidance is strongly recommended for minors., who may use the contents as a resource material.

***********************

“Ego is the most potent Antidote for Human Stupidity, over Eons.”[1]

Introduction

This publication, Part 2, in the series, expands on the Day of Ashura[2], the 10^th day of month of Muharram 61 AH, corresponding to 01^st October 680 CE, in the Gregorian calendar[3].  The paper highlights the development of the two major sects in Islam dating back to 680 CE, when Imam Husayn ibn Ali was mercilessly martyred by Yazid 1 in Karbala.  Yazid I (Yazid ibn Muawiya) was the Umayyad caliph[4] at the time of the Battle of Karbala[5]. The term Caliph [6] (Arabic: خَليفة‎, Khalīfah) refers to the leader of the Muslim community who is considered the successor to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in terms of political and religious authority, though not in prophethood.

Key aspects of a Caliph:[7]

• Title meaning: “Caliph” literally means successor or representative.
• Role: Historically, the Caliph was the head of the Caliphate, a unified Islamic state, and was responsible for:

• Upholding Islamic law (Sharia)
• Leading the Muslim community (Ummah)
• Defending and expanding the Islamic realm

• Famous Caliphates:

• Rashidun Caliphate[8](632–661 CE): The first four “Rightly Guided” Caliphs after Prophet Muhammad.
• Umayyad Caliphate[9](661–750 CE): Founded by Muawiya I, included Yazid I.
• Abbasid Caliphate[10](750–1258 CE): Known for cultural and scientific flourishing.
• Ottoman Caliphate[11](1517–1924 CE): The last widely recognized Caliphate.

The position of Caliph was both religious and political, though over time, the religious authority of Caliphs varied depending on the era and region.

Yazid 1 ruled from 680 to 683 CE. The Battle of Karbala occurred shortly after he came to power, and it involved the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)[12], along with his family and companions. Yazid I’s[13] had the Battle of Al Harra in which he attacked the Medinese in August 683 and the city was sacked. Earlier, ddemand for allegiance from Husayn and the subsequent refusal led to the tragic events at Karbala. It is to be noted that Yazid II (Yazid ibn Abd al-Malik), on the other hand, ruled much later, from 720 to 724 CE, and had no involvement in the tragic events of Karbala.[14]

Part 1[15] introduces the sad odyssey of Imam Husayn Iman Husayn, who was invited by the people of Karbala to discuss the tyrannical regime of Yazid 1, but after the Imam’s arrival with his 72 companions, they withdrew their pledged support and sided with Yazid.  The ensuing Battle of Karbala was brutal, non-event, in view the large army of Yazid, fighting 72 companions of the Imam.   The martyrdom of the Imam was the beginning of sectarianism in Islam and is acrimoniously perpetuated to this day, by both the Shias and Sunni, sects, which emerged after the civil war.  This paper also examines and unpacks the details of why the Sunnis do not even accept the Shias as “believers” how it impacts on global peace efforts in the long term. This sectarianism and separatism is a major cause of intra-Islamic turmoil, aggression and ongoing Peace Disruption, globally.  This publication, also proposes a strategy as to what can the peace lovers and propagators, as well as all members and readers of Transcend Media Service, do to eradicate the Sunni-Shia belligerence and disharmony?

 

Interestingly, a recent paper by Dr. Firoz Mahboob Kamal[16] discusses the turmoil within the Islamic community and brotherhood is glaringly heightened, using the Palestinian-Israel-Iranian war, which is actually a US proxy war and the non-involvement of the Arab states, as well as the customary silence of the major role players. like Saudi Arabia.  The disunity within the Islamic community has allowed the western powers to gain the upper hand and is primarily based on Shia-Sunni ideological divide, against the tragic background of Ashura, in early Islamic history, in Medina, climaxing with the martyrdom of Imam Husayn and his 72 loyal companions, at Karbala, in 680CE. Karbala is situated about 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Baghdad, Iraq. It lies to the northeast of Medina,[17] which is in present-day Saudi Arabia. The distance between Medina and Karbala is approximately 1,400 km (870 miles) by road. Karbala is one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam due to the place of martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, there during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

It is relevant to elaborate, later in the paper, on the differences between the Shias’ and Sunnis’ religious interpretation and practice of Islamic tenets, as enunciated in the scriptural books; The divine Quran and the Hadiths: which are the recorded narrations of the Prophet Muhamad (PBUH).

The Political and religio-spiritual significance of Imam Husayn’s Martyrdom[18],[19]

The martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE is one of the most profound and emotionally resonant events in Islamic history, especially for Shia Muslims, but also respected by many Sunni Muslims.

 

Historical Context

• Husayn ibn Ali was the son of Ali ibn Abi Talib and Fatimah, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

• After the death of his brother Hasan, Husayn became the head of the Prophet Muhamad’s (PBUH) household.

• He refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid ibn Muawiya, the Umayyad caliph, whom he viewed as corrupt and unjust.

The Battle of Karbala

• On 10 Muharram 61 AH (10 October 680 CE), Husayn and his small group of family and followers were surrounded by Yazid’s army in Karbala (modern-day Iraq).
• Despite being vastly outnumbered and deprived of water for days, Husayn refused to surrender.
• He and nearly all his male companions were killed. The women and children were taken captive.

Spiritual and Moral Significance

1. Symbol of Resistance Against Oppression

Husayn’s stand is seen as the ultimate act of moral courage—choosing death over submission to tyranny.

1. Sacrifice for Truth and Justice

His martyrdom is viewed as a sacrifice to uphold the values of Islam, including justice, dignity, and righteousness.

1. Inspiration for Social Justice Movements

Across centuries, Imam Husayn has inspired revolutionaries, reformers, and freedom fighters. both Muslim and non-Muslim.

1. Annual Mourning and Reflection
   • Shia Muslims observe Ashura with mourning rituals, passion plays (ta’ziya), and processions.
   • Sunni Muslims often fast on Ashura and reflect on the broader themes of sacrifice and divine justice.

Universal Legacy

Imam Husayn’s words before the battle: “I only desire to spread good values and prevent evil”. are often quoted as a timeless mission of ethical leadership.

Ashura (Arabic number 10) is Observed Predominantly by Shia Muslims?[20]

Ashura holds particular prominence in Shia Islam, but it is also observed by Sunni Muslims, albeit in different ways and with different emphases.

🔹 Shia Perspective

• For Shia Muslims, Ashura is the pivotal day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali at Karbala.
• It is commemorated with majlis (gatherings), processions, poetry, and reenactments of the tragedy.
• The day symbolizes resistance against tyranny, sacrifice for justice, and devotion to the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt).

🔹 Sunni Perspective

• Sunni Muslims also recognize the virtue of Ashura, primarily due to the fasting tradition established by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who fasted on this day in gratitude for the deliverance of Moses and the Israelites.
• While the Battle of Karbala is acknowledged and respected, it is not the central focus of Ashura in Sunni practice.

Why the Difference? Is It Sectarianism?

The difference is not necessarily sectarianism or arrogance, but rather a divergence in historical emphasis and theological development:

• Shia Islam places a strong theological and emotional emphasis on the Imamate and the suffering of the Prophet’s family, especially Husayn.
• Sunni Islam emphasizes the Prophetic traditions (Sunnah) and broader historical events like the Exodus.

However, this does not mean that Sunnis disregard Husayn’s sacrifice. Many Sunni scholars and communities honour his legacy deeply, even if their rituals differ.

A Call for Unity

Your sentiment is powerful: Islam is one, and the values of justice, sacrifice, and truth that Husayn stood for are universal Islamic values. Recognizing and respecting different expressions of remembrance can be a source of unity, not division.

“Husayn is from me, and I am from Husayn.” — Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
This hadith is embraced and strictly observed by all Muslims, regardless of sect.

 

Key Differences between Shia and Sunni Muslims Observance of Ashura Highlighted:[21]

Category	Shia Observance	Sunni Observance
Historical Focus	Martyrdom of Husayn at Karbala	Exodus of Moses, Martyrdom of Husayn
Rituals	Majlis, Processions, Passion Plays, Mourning	Fasting, Reflection, Sermons
Emotional Tone	Deep Mourning, Grief, Reflection	Gratitude, Reflection, Respect
Theological Emphasis	Imamate, Sacrifice for Justice, Devotion to Ahl al-Bayt	Prophetic Traditions, Broader Historical Events

 

This chart is meant to foster mutual understanding and respect between traditions, not to divide.

 

The Day of Ashura (10^th day of Muharram in the Islamic calendar) holds significance in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, though its observance and interpretation differ among the Abrahamic traditions. Below is a comparative analysis of the events associated with Ashura in the three Abrahamic scriptures:

1. In Judaism (Tanakh / Hebrew Bible)

• Ashura is not explicitly mentioned, but the 10th of Tishrei [22](Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement) is significant.
• Events:
  • Moses receiving the second set of tablets (Exodus 34:28) [23]after repentance for the Golden Calf incident. day of fasting, repentance, and seeking forgiveness (Leviticus 16:29-30).
• Some Jewish traditions also associate this day with Noah’s Ark resting on Mount Ararat (Genesis 8:4).[24]

2. In Christianity (Bible)

• Ashura is not directly observed, but some connections exist:
  • Prophet Moses and the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12-14).
  • Jesus (Isa) fasting for 40 days (Matthew 4:1-2), though not directly linked to Ashura.
• Some Eastern Christian traditions commemorate martyrdom on similar dates but not specifically Ashura.

3. In Islam (Quran and Hadith)

Ashura is highly significant, especially for Sunnis and Shias, but with different perspectives:

1. Sunni Tradition:

• Fasting on Ashura was practiced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) following the Jewish tradition of Moses’ victory over Pharaoh.
• Events:
  • Noah’s Ark saved from the flood (Tafsir Ibn Kathir).[25]
  • Moses and the Israelites saved from Pharaoh (Sahih Bukhari).[26]
  • Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) intended to fast on this day and encouraged Muslims to fast (either the 9^th  and 10^th  or 10^th  and 11^th  of Muharram).[27]

1. Shia Tradition:

• Mourning the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) (grandson of Prophet Muhammad) in Karbala (680 CE).
• A day of grief, processions, and recalling the sacrifice for justice.

 

Comparative Summary Table

Tradition	Key Event(s)	Observance
Judaism	Moses’ atonement, Yom Kippur	Fasting, repentance
Christianity	Deliverance of Moses (indirect link)	Not directly observed
Islam (Sunni)	Moses’ victory, Noah’s salvation	Fasting (recommended)
Islam (Shia)	Martyrdom of Imam Hussain	Mourning, processions

Conclusion

 

Ashura is a day of deliverance, repentance, and sacrifice across Abrahamic faiths. While Jews observe Yom Kippur[28], Sunnis fast commemorating Prophetic events, and Shias mourn Imam Husayn’s martyrdom. Each tradition enriches the spiritual understanding of this sacred day.

In Islamic tradition, the 10^th of Muharram (Ashura) is believed to be a day of immense significance, with numerous pivotal events occurring on this date. While different scholars and sources mention varying numbers of events, a compilation of 12 major events associated with Ashura, as derived from Hadith, Tafsir (exegesis), and historical Islamic sources:

12 Events Associated with Ashura (10th Muharram)

1. Acceptance of Adam’s (AS[29]) Repentance [30]– After being sent to Earth, his repentance was accepted on this day.
2. Noah’s (AS) Ark Resting on Mount Judi [31]– The flood ended, and his ship came to rest (Quran 11:44, Tafsir Ibn Kathir).
3. Passage of Moses (AS) and the Israelites Through the Red Sea [32]– Pharaoh drowned, and Bani Israel were saved (Sahih Bukhari).
4. Jonah (AS) Emerged from the Fish’s Belly [33]– He was freed after supplicating to Allah (Quran 37:143-144).
5. Job (AS) Was Healed from His Afflictions [34]– Allah restored his health after severe trials (Quran 21:83-84).
6. Joseph (AS) Was Reunited with His Father Jacob (AS) [1]– After years of separation (Quran 12:93-96).
7. Jesus (AS) Was Raised to Heaven – Some traditions suggest his ascension occurred on Ashura (though other dates are also mentioned).
8. David’s (AS) Repentance Was Accepted – After the incident with Uriah (2 Samuel 12:13, referenced in Islamic sources).
9. Solomon (AS) Was Granted His Kingdom – Allah gave him authority over wind and jinn (Quran 38:35).
10. Abraham (AS) Was Saved from Nimrod’s Fire – The fire became cool for him (Quran 21:69).
11. Muhammad (PBUH) Intended to Fast on Ashura – Following the Jewish tradition of Moses’ victory (Sahih Muslim).
12. Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala (61 AH/680 CE) – A tragic event mourned by Shia Muslims.

Additional Points

• Sunni Perspective: Focuses on fasting and gratitude for divine favours (Moses’ salvation, Noah’s ark, etc.).
• Shia Perspective: Primarily commemorates Imam Hussain’s martyrdom as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
• Debated Events: Some scholars question whether all 12 events happened exactly on Ashura, but these are widely cited in Islamic literature.

 

Below are the Islamic references (Hadith, Tafsir, and historical sources) for the 12 events associated with Ashura (10^th Muharram).

1. Acceptance of Adam’s (AS) Repentance

• Reference:
  • Mentioned in Tafsir al-Qurtubi (Vol. 8, p. 197) and Tafsir Ibn Kathir (under Surah Al-Baqarah 2:37).[35]
  • Also cited in Al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah (Ibn Kathir) as a day of divine mercy.

2. Noah’s (AS) Ark Resting on Mount Judi[36]

• Quranic Reference:
  • “And it was said, ‘O earth, swallow your water, and O sky, withhold [your rain].’ And the water subsided, and the matter was accomplished, and the ship came to rest on the [mountain of] Judi…” (Quran 11:44)[37]
• Hadith/Tafsir:
  • Tafsir Ibn Kathir links this event to the 10th of Muharram.

3. Moses (AS) & Israelites Saved from Pharaoh

• Hadith Reference:
  • “The Prophet (PBUH) came to Madinah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He asked, ‘What is this?’ They said, ‘This is a righteous day, the day Allah saved Moses and the Children of Israel from their enemy, so Musa fasted.’ The Prophet said, ‘We have more right to Musa than you,’ so he fasted and commanded the Muslims to fast.” (Sahih Bukhari 3397, Sahih Muslim 1130)

4. Jonah (AS) Emerged from the Fish’s Belly

• Quranic Reference:
  • “Had he not been of those who exalt Allah, he would have remained inside its belly until the Day of Resurrection.” (Quran 37:143-144)[38]
• Tafsir:
  • Ibn Kathir mentions in his Stories of the Prophets that Yunus was freed on Ashura.[39]

5. Job (AS) Healed from His Afflictions

• Quranic Reference:
  • “And [mention] Job, when he called to his Lord, ‘Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful.’ So We responded to him and removed what afflicted him…” (Quran 21:83-84)[40]
• Tafsir:
  • Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir mention his healing occurred on Ashura.

6. Joseph (AS) Reunited with His Father Jacob (AS)

• Quranic Reference:
  • “Go with this shirt of mine and cast it over the face of my father; he will become seeing. And bring me your family, all together.” (Quran 12:93)[41]
• Tafsir:
  • Some scholars (like the leading Quranic exegete Al-Tha’labi)  [42]mention this reunion occurred on Ashura[43].  An exegete is a person who interprets and explains religious texts, especially sacred scriptures like the Qur’an or the Bible. The term comes from the Greek word exēgētēs (ἐξηγητής), meaning interpreter or expounder.[44]
  • In the Islamic context, an exegete is known as a Mufassir (مفسر).

7. Jesus (AS) Raised to Heaven[45]

• Quranic Reference:
  • “But Allah raised him to Himself…” (Quran 4:158)[46]
• Historical Note:
  • Some Islamic historians (like Al-Suyuti) suggest his ascension was on Ashura, though other dates are also mentioned.[47]

8. David’s (AS) Repentance Accepted[48]

• Islamic Sources:
  • Tafsir al-Alusi (Ruh al-Ma’ani) mentions that Dawud’s repentance was accepted on Ashura.

9. Solomon (AS) Granted His Kingdom[49]

• Quranic Reference:
  • “He said, ‘My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me…’” (Quran 38:35)[50]
• Tafsir:
  • Ibn Kathir links this to Ashura in his Stories of the Prophets.

10. Abraham (AS) Saved from Nimrod’s Fire[51]

• Quranic Reference:
  • “We said, ‘O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham.’” (Quran 21:69)
• Tafsir:
  • Al-Tabari and Al-Qurtubi mention this miracle occurred on Ashura[52].

11. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Fasted on Ashura[53]

• Fasting on Muharram 10, known as the Day of Ashura expiates for the sins of the past year. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) arrived in Madinah in 622 CE, he found that the Jews there fasted on Muharram 10 and asked them the reason for their fasting on this day. They said: “This is a blessed day.”
• Hadith:
  • “The Prophet (PBUH) observed the fast on Ashura and ordered (Muslims) to fast (on that day).” (Sahih Bukhari 2004)[54]

12. Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala (61 AH/680 CE)

• Historical Sources:
  • Tarikh al-Tabari (Vol. 19, p. 166) and Al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah (Ibn Kathir) document his martyrdom on 10th Muharram.[55]

Important Points:

1. Variations in Authenticity: Some narrations (like Adam’s repentance) are from Isra’iliyyat (Jewish/Christian sources adopted in some Tafsirs) [56]and are not in the strongest Hadiths.
2. Ashura Fasting is Sahih (Authentic): The Prophetic tradition of fasting is undisputed (Bukhari, Muslim).
3. Shia-Sunni Differences: Sunni sources focus on fasting, while Shia sources emphasize mourning for Imam Hussain (RA).

 

The Brutal End of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)  at Karbala[57],[58],[59]

The prophecy of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (as by his grandfather, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is also mentioned in a prominent Sunni book[60] .  At the battle, Imam Husayn bid farewell to the women, kissed his youngest daughter and told her to have patience. Imam Husayn helped mount everyone but when it was his time to go to the battlefield, he was all alone. He suddenly felt a hand on him. It was his sister Sayeda Zainab, who helped him mount on his pure white, horse, Zuljana[61], which was blood stained and pierced with arrows, as he shielded his master in the battle. Imam Husayn was extremely injured since he was attacked every time he went to bring the martyrs from the battlefield. He was also hungry, thirsty, and heartbroken as he had lost all of his loved ones.

Sayeda Zainab [62]was standing and watching the battle with her brother from afar. Husayn Ibn Ali fought with such bravery and courage, killing many of the enemy. The soldiers of Ibn Saad surrounded him. They shot arrows, attacked him with their swords and those who didn’t have anything would throw stones at him. He had hundreds of arrows on his body; not a single part of his body was spared. When he came down from his horse, his body couldn’t hit the ground because of the arrows. Imam Husaynn was not visible to Sayeda Zainab.

Sayeda Zainab ordered “the earth to rise so that I can see my brother”. The place where Sayeda Zainab was standing rose (this risen piece of land is still in Karbala and is known as Tilla-e-Zainabiya).[63]What Sayeda Zainab saw was unbearable for any sister! She saw that Shimr was standing on Imam Hussain’s chest and was cutting his neck with a blunt dagger. He cut off Imam Husayn’s neck in 13 tries and Sayeda Zainab kept wailing.

After killing the Imam brutally, the soldiers prepared their horses and to dishonor Imam, they ran those horses on the body of Imam Husayn. The ‘Master of the Martyrs’ has returned to his Lord, well pleased, obliging the command of his Creator. Imam Hussain (AS) chose death with dignity rather than life with humiliation, raising the slogan of ‘Hayhaat mina Zilla’ [64](never to humiliation). He gave blood to revive human values, to uproot despotism, to pave the ground for Islamic awakening and social reformation. He accomplished his task.[65]

 

In view of controversy, multiple questions and concerns raised, as well as the belligerence, it is necessary to address them in detail, quoting with Quranic, Hadith, and Abrahamic scriptural references.

 

Question 1: Prophet David’s (Dawud AS) Repentance in the Quran

Background:

• In the Hebrew Bible (2 Samuel 11-12), Prophet David (AS) is tested when he commits an error involving Bathsheba (Uriah’s wife) and subsequently repents.[66]
• In the Quran, however, the story is different—it focuses on a moral test of judgment, not impropriety.

Quranic Account (Surah 38:17-26):[67]

• Allah tests Dawud (AS) with two disputing men who scale his palace wall.
• One man says: “This is my brother; he has 99 ewes, while I have one. He demands I give it to him, overpowering me in argument.”
• Dawud (AS) hastily rules in favor of the complainant without hearing the full story.
• He realizes his error and falls in prostration, seeking forgiveness (Quran 38:24).
• Allah accepts his repentance and reminds him of his high station as a chosen prophet.

Key Differences from the Bible:

1. No mention of Bathsheba or sin of desire – The Quran focuses on a judgment error, not moral failing.[68]
2. Repentance was for hastiness in ruling – Dawud (AS) is praised for his immediate remorse.
3. Allah forgives him – “So We forgave him that; and indeed, for him is nearness to Us and a good place of return.” (Quran 38:25)

Why Some Link This to Ashura?

• Tafsir scholars (like Al-Qurtubi, Ibn Kathir) mention that Dawud’s (AS) repentance was accepted on 10th Muharram, though this is not explicitly in the Quran.
• Likely derived from Jewish tradition (Yom Kippur’s theme of repentance).

Question 2: Creation of Heaven and Earth on Ashura[69]

Islamic Sources:

• Hadith in Sahih Muslim (1163):
  • “Allah created the heavens and earth on Ashura… and saved Musa (AS) and drowned Pharaoh on Ashura.”
  • Note: Some scholars classify this as weak (da’if) due to its chain, but it is widely cited in Tafsir.
• Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Vol. 3, p. 458):
  • Mentions that the Pen (Qalam), the Throne (Arsh), and the heavens/earth were created on Ashura.

Jewish & Christian Parallels:

• In Genesis (1:1-5):
  • Creation begins on Tishrei 1 (Rosh Hashanah), but some Jewish Midrashic texts link divine judgments to the 10th of Tishrei (Yom Kippur).
• Talmud (Rosh Hashanah 10b-11a):
  • Debates whether the world was created in Tishrei or Nissan, but associates Yom Kippur (10th Tishrei) with divine decrees.

Comparative Summary:

Event	Islamic View	Jewish View	Christian View
Creation of Heavens/Earth	Some Hadith link to Ashura	Linked to Tishrei 1 (Rosh Hashanah)	Follows Genesis (no fixed date)
Day of Atonement	Ashura (fasting)	Yom Kippur (10 Tishrei)	Not observed

Final Answer

1. Dawud’s (AS) repentance in the Quran was about a lapse in judicial fairness, not impropriety. The link to Ashura comes from scholarly tradition (Tafsir), not the Quran directly.
2. Creation on Ashura is mentioned in weak Hadith but widely cited in Tafsir, while Judaism ties creation to Tishrei 1 (Rosh Hashanah).

 

Peace and Ashura

The concept of “peace” (Shalom/Salaam) in Abrahamic scriptures i deeply tied to divine figures like Yahweh (Judaism), God (Christianity), and Allah (Islam), but Ahura Mazda—the supreme deity of Zoroastrianism—is not directly referenced in Jewish, Christian, or Islamic texts. However, there are thematic parallels worth exploring, especially in relation to Ashura and Imam Husayn’s martyrdom.

1. Ahura Mazda in Zoroastrianism (Non-Abrahamic but Influential)[70]

• Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord) is the Zoroastrian god of light, truth, and cosmic order (Asha)—a concept akin to divine peace.
• “Peace” in Zoroastrianism is linked to Asha (truth/order) opposing Druj (falsehood/chaos)9.
• While Zoroastrianism influenced Persian culture (and indirectly early Islamic Persia), Ahura Mazda is not mentioned in the Bible or Quran.

2. Peace in Abrahamic Scriptures
3. Judaism (Hebrew Bible/Tanakh)

• Yahweh as “God of Peace”:
  • “The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace“ (Numbers 6:26)11.[71]
  • Prophets like Isaiah foretold the “Prince of Peace” (Messiah) (Isaiah 9:6)11.

1. Christianity (New Testament)

• Jesus as “Prince of Peace”:
  • Fulfils Isaiah’s prophecy (Luke 2:14: “Peace on earth”)11.
  • “My peace I give you” (John 14:27).[72]

1. Islam (Quran & Hadith)

• Allah as “As-Salam” (The Source of Peace):
  • “He is Allah, besides whom there is no god, the Sovereign, the Holy, the Peace“ (Quran 59:23).
  • Ashura’s Sunni tradition commemorates Moses’ liberation (a symbol of divine deliverance)3.
  • Shia tradition mourns Husayn’s martyrdom as a sacrifice for justice, echoing prophetic struggles against oppression610.

3. Thematic Parallel: Ashura & Cosmic Justice

• Husayn’s stand at Karbala mirrors Zoroastrian Asha vs. Druj—a fight for truth against tyranny910.
• While Ahura Mazda isn’t invoked, Husayn’s martyrdom embodies Islamic “peace through justice” (Quran 16:90).

Conclusion

• Ahura Mazda’s “peace” is absent in Abrahamic texts, but Zoroastrian dualism (good vs. evil) influenced later Abrahamic eschatology.
• Ashura in Islam—whether Sunni (fasting) or Shia (mourning)—reflects peace as divine justice, resonating with broader Abrahamic themes.

 

 

 

The concept of “peace” (Shalom/Salaam) in Abrahamic scriptures is deeply tied to divine figures like Yahweh (Judaism), God (Christianity), and Allah (Islam), but Ahura Mazda, the supreme deity of Zoroastrianism, is not directly referenced in Jewish, Christian, or Islamic texts. However, there are thematic parallels worth exploring, especially in relation to Ashura and Imam Husayn’s martyrdom.

1. Ahura Mazda in Zoroastrianism (Non-Abrahamic but Influential)

• Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord) is the Zoroastrian god of light, truth, and cosmic order (Asha), a concept akin to divine peace.
• “Peace” in Zoroastrianism is linked to Asha (truth/order) opposing Druj (falsehood/chaos)9.
• While Zoroastrianism influenced Persian culture (and indirectly early Islamic Persia), Ahura Mazda is not mentioned in the Bible or Quran.

2. Peace in Abrahamic Scriptures
3. Judaism (Hebrew Bible/Tanakh)

• Yahweh as “God of Peace”:
  • “The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace“ (Numbers 6:26)11.
  • Prophets like Isaiah foretold the “Prince of Peace” (Messiah) (Isaiah 9:6)11.

1. Christianity (New Testament)

• Jesus as “Prince of Peace”:
  • Fulfils Isaiah’s prophecy (Luke 2:14: “Peace on earth”)11.
  • “My peace I give you” (John 14:27).

1. Islam (Quran & Hadith)

• Allah as “As-Salam” (The Source of Peace):
  • “He is Allah, besides whom there is no god, the Sovereign, the Holy, the Peace“ (Quran 59:23).
  • Ashura’s Sunni tradition commemorates Moses’ liberation (a symbol of divine deliverance)3.
  • Shia tradition mourns Husayn’s martyrdom as a sacrifice for justice, echoing prophetic struggles against oppression610.

3. Thematic Parallel: Ashura & Cosmic Justice[73]

• Husayn’s stand at Karbala mirrors Zoroastrian Asha vs. Druj, a fight for truth against tyrann.
• While Ahura Mazda isn’t invoked, Husayn’s martyrdom embodies Islamic “peace through justice” (Quran 16:90).

Conclusion

• Ahura Mazda’s “peace” is absent in Abrahamic texts, but Zoroastrian dualism (good vs. evil) influenced later Abrahamic eschatology.
• Ashura in Islam whether Sunni (fasting) or Shia (mourning), reflects peace as divine justice, resonating with broader Abrahamic themes.

 

Summary of Imam Husayn’s Odyssey Leading to His Martyrdom

1. Background and Political Context

• Imam Husayn (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was the son of Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) and Fatima (RA). After the death of his brother Hasan (RA), he became the leader of the Banu Hashim clan
• The Umayyad caliph Mu’awiya violated his treaty with Hasan by appointing his son Yazid as successor, despite Yazid’s tyrannical and irreligious reputation 511.
• Husayn refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, upholding Islamic principles of justice and opposing hereditary kingship

2. The Journey to Kufa[74]

• Imam Husayn received letters from Kufan supporters urging him to lead a revolt against Yazid 711.
• He sent his cousin Muslim ibn Aqil to assess the situation, but Yazid’s governor, Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad, crushed the uprising and executed Muslim 79.
• Despite warnings, Husayn set out from Mecca with about 72 followers, including women and children, to avoid bloodshed in the holy city 511.

3. Interception and Siege at Karbala[75]

• En route to Kufa, Husayn’s caravan was intercepted by Yazid’s forces under Hurr al-Tamimi and forced to camp in the desert of Karbala 713.
• The Umayyad army (4,000–30,000 soldiers) surrounded Husayn’s small group, cutting off their access to water for days 711.
• Negotiations failed when Husayn refused to submit to Yazid’s illegitimate rule 913.

4. The Battle & Martyrdom (10 Muharram 61 AH / 680 CE)

• On Ashura, Husayn’s companions were slaughtered one by one, including his half-brother Abbas and his infant son Ali Asghar 511.
• Husayn fought valiantly but was ultimately beheaded, and his family was taken captive to Damascus 79.
• His sacrifice became a symbol of resistance against oppression, galvanizing Shia Islam as a distinct movement 18.

Why Sunni Muslims Do Not Revere Him in the Same Way as Shias[76]

1. Historical and Political Differences
   • Sunnis accept the legitimacy of the first three caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman) before Ali, while Shias view them as usurpers 814.
   • The Sunni perspective sees Husayn’s stand as tragic but not a defining theological event, unlike Shias who treat it as a foundational martyrdom 1214.
2. Commemoration Practices
   • Shias mourn Husayn’s death with rituals like chest-beating and processions (Ashura), which many Sunnis consider excessive or bid’ah (innovation) 1214.
   • Sunnis may respect Husayn as a martyr but do not attribute the same level of intercessory status as Shias do 14.
3. Focus on Unity vs. Sectarian Identity
   • Sunni tradition emphasizes the broader Muslim ummah, whereas Shia identity is deeply tied to the Ahl al-Bayt’s suffering 812.
   • Some Sunni scholars criticize Yazid but avoid elevating Husayn’s rebellion as a doctrinal model 914.

Conclusion:
While both Sunnis and Shias regard Imam Husayn as a martyr, Shias venerate him as a central figure of faith, whereas Sunnis honour him within the broader history of Islam without ritualized mourning. The divide stems from differing views on succession, authority, and commemoration

 

Differing Views Between Sunnis and Shias: Succession, Authority, and Commemoration

The divide between Sunni and Shia Muslims originates from early Islamic history, particularly the question of succession after Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Over time, this political dispute evolved into theological, jurisprudential, and cultural differences, with each group developing distinct views on leadership, religious authority, and the commemoration of key events.

While both groups uphold core Islamic beliefs (Tawheed, Prophethood, Quran), their interpretations diverge significantly, sometimes leading to mutual exclusion and hostility. Generally, a Sunni Muslims, have encountered strong anti-Shia rhetoric, including claims that Shias are not “real Muslims.” Below is a detailed breakdown of these differences.

1. Succession After the Prophet (PBUH)

Sunni Perspective

• Abu Bakr (RA) as the First Caliph[77]: Sunnis believe leadership should be based on merit and consensus (Shura). After the Prophet’s death, senior companions elected Abu Bakr (RA), followed by Umar (RA), Uthman (RA), and Ali (RA)—the “Rightly Guided Caliphs” 217.
• No Divine Appointment: Sunnis reject the idea that Ali (RA) was explicitly named successor by the Prophet. They argue that Hadith of Ghadir Khumm (where the Prophet said, “Whoever’s master I am, Ali is his master”) refers to spiritual closeness, not political succession 417.
• Mu’awiya & Yazid: While Mu’awiya’s caliphate is accepted, Sunni scholars criticize Yazid for Husayn’s (RA) martyrdom but avoid open cursing, citing hadiths against rebellion 15.

Shia Perspective

• Ali (RA) as the First Imam: Shias believe Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explicitly appointed Ali (RA) at Ghadir Khumm and that leadership must remain within Ahl al-Bayt (Prophet’s family) 1317.
• Divinely Guided Imams: Shias hold that 12 Imams (starting with Ali and ending with Mahdi) are infallible, possessing divine knowledge 413.
• Rejection of Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman: Many Shias view the first three caliphs as usurpers, particularly due to Fatima’s (RA) disputed inheritance and Ali’s delayed caliphate 1217.

Key Conflict:

• Sunnis see Shia rejection of the first caliphs as undermining Islamic history.
• Shias see Sunni acceptance of Yazid’s rule as justifying oppression 15.

2. Religious Authority & Jurisprudence

Sunni Islam

• Caliphs as Political Leaders: After the Rashidun Caliphs, leadership became monarchical (Umayyads, Abbasids, Ottomans).
• Four Schools of Thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali): Sunni jurisprudence relies on Quran, Hadith, Ijma (consensus), and Qiyas (analogy) 217.
• No Infallible Clergy: Sunni scholars (Ulama) are interpreters, not divinely appointed 14.

Shia Islam

• Imams as Infallible Guides: The Twelver Shia believe Imams are divinely appointed, continuing Prophetic authority 413.
• Marja’iyya (Grand Ayatollahs): In the absence of the Mahdi, senior clerics (Wilayat al-Faqih) guide the community (e.g., Khomeini in Iran) 13.
• Hadith Sources: Shias prioritize narrations from Ahl al-Bayt, rejecting some Sunni hadiths from Abu Huraira, Aisha 612.

Key Conflict:

• Sunnis accuse Shias of “innovation (Bid’ah)” for elevating Imams to near-prophetic status.
• Shias accuse Sunnis of ignoring the Prophet’s family’s rights 1217.

3. Commemoration of Ashura and Martyrdom

Sunni Observance

• Fasting on Ashura: Sunnis commemorate Moses’ victory over Pharaoh, following the Prophet’s (PBUH) tradition 25.
• Husayn (RA) Respected, But Not Central: While mourning Husayn is encouraged, public rituals (chest-beating, self-flagellation) are rejected as Bid’ah 15.

Shia Observance

• Mourning as a Religious Duty: Ashura marks Husayn’s martyrdom at Karbala (680 CE)—seen as a symbol of resistance against tyranny 512.
• Passion Plays (Ta’ziyeh) & Matam: Shias engage in processions, reenactments, and lamentations, which Sunnis often condemn as excessive 1417.

Key Conflict:

• Sunnis view Shia mourning as un-Islamic dramatization.
• Shias view Sunni indifference as betrayal of the Prophet’s family 1215.

Why Some Sunnis Reject Shias as Muslims

1. Takfiri Rhetoric: Some Salafi/Wahhabi groups declare Shias non-Muslims due to:
   • Veneration of Imams (seen as shirk).
   • Cursing Sahaba (Abu Bakr, Umar).
   • Different Prayer Practices (hands at sides, turbah prostration) 14.
2. Political Rivalry: Saudi-Iran tensions fuel sectarianism, with state-backed clerics demonizing the other 613.
3. Historical Grievances: Battle of Karbala, Safavid-Ottoman wars entrenched mutual hostility 517.

Yet, Many Sunni Scholars Recognize Shias as Muslims:

• Al-Azhar Fatwa (1959): Declared Twelver Shia as valid Muslims 17.
• Ibn Taymiyyah: Criticized Shia theology but did not declare them kuffar 15.

Conclusion: Can Dialogue Bridge the Divide?

While sectarian tensions persist, many modern scholars advocate unity on shared beliefs (Tawheed, Quran, Prophet). However, historical wounds, political manipulation, and theological differences keep the divide alive.

A Sunni Muslim, might reflect:

• Do differences in leadership interpretation justify denying another’s Islam?
• Can respect for Ahl al-Bayt coexist with Sunni orthodoxy?

The answer lies in Quran 49:10:

“The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers.”

 

The Civil War in Islam (First Fitna) and the Role of Bibi Ayesha (RA)[78]

The First Fitna (656–661 CE) was the first major civil war in Islamic history, triggered by political and tribal divisions after the assassination of the third Caliph, Uthman ibn Affan (RA). Bibi Ayesha (RA), the youngest wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), played a central role in the conflict, particularly in the Battle of the Camel (656 CE), where she led an opposition force against the fourth Caliph, Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA).

1. Background: The Assassination of Uthman (RA) and Rise of Ali (RA)

• Uthman’s Rule (644–656 CE):
  • Uthman, a member of the Banu Umayya clan, was accused of nepotism by appointing relatives to key positions and mishandling state funds 711.
  • Discontent grew among provincial rebels, especially from Egypt and Iraq, who besieged his house in Medina and eventually assassinated him 12.
• Ali’s Election as Caliph (656 CE):
  • After Uthman’s death, the people of Medina pledged allegiance to Ali (RA) as the fourth Caliph.
  • However, Ayesha (RA), Talha ibn Ubaydullah, and Zubayr ibn al-Awwam opposed Ali’s leadership, demanding justice for Uthman’s killers 48.

2. Ayesha’s Opposition and the Battle of the Camel (656 CE)[79]
3. Motivations for Rebellion

1. Personal Grievances:
   • Ayesha had clashed with Uthman over reduced pensions and accused him of corruption, even calling him “Na’athal” (a derogatory term) 11.
   • However, after Uthman’s death, she shifted her stance, now demanding his killers be punished—a move seen by some as politically motivated 611.
2. Political Ambitions:
   • Some historians argue that Talha and Zubayr sought power, while Ayesha may have wanted her nephew Abdullah ibn Zubayr to become Caliph 4.

1. The March to Basra[80]

• Ayesha, Talha, and Zubayr gathered 3,000 troops in Mecca and marched to Basra (Iraq), claiming they sought justice for Uthman
• They seized Basra, killing 600 supporters of Ali and taking control of the treasury 4.

1. Ali’s Response and the Battle

• Ali initially tried diplomacy, sending letters urging Ayesha to return to Medina (as per Quran 33:33, which instructs wives of the Prophet to stay at home) 11.
• When negotiations failed, Ali’s forces (about 10,000 men) clashed with Ayesha’s army near Basra
• The battle was named “Battle of the Camel” because Ayesha directed troops from a howdah (camel litter), which became the focal point of fighting.
• Outcome:
  • Talha and Zubayr were killed, and Ayesha’s forces were defeated.[81]
  • Ali pardoned Ayesha and sent her back to Medina under escort

3. Aftermath and Historical Perspectives
4. Sunni vs. Shia Views

• Sunni Perspective:
  • Ayesha is revered as “Mother of the Believers” and a major hadith narrator, but her role in the civil war is seen as a political mistake[82].
  • Many Sunnis argue she was misguided by Talha and Zubayr rather than acting out of malice
• Shia Perspective:
  • Shias criticize Ayesha for defying Ali’s leadership, accusing her of instigating fitna (discord)
  • They contrast her actions with Fatima (RA) and Umm Salama (RA), who supported Ali

1. Broader Impact of the First Fitna

• The conflict weakened Muslim unity, leading to further wars (e.g., Battle of Siffin vs. Muawiya)
• It set the stage for the Umayyad Caliphate (661–750 CE), which emerged after Ali’s assassination

Conclusion

The Battle of the Camel marked a tragic turning point in Islamic history, where political ambitions and tribal loyalties overshadowed unity. While Ayesha’s involvement remains controversial, her legacy in Sunni Islam remains respected but debated, whereas Shia Islam views her actions as a divisive error. The war underscored the dangers of internal strife (fitna) in Muslim governance.

Sources recommended for further reading:

• Battle of the Camel (Britannica)
• First Fitna (Wikipedia)
• Shia View of Ayesha

 

In the present era, this FITNA is further exacerbated by some Sunnis, by denigrating Shias, for what they classify as BIDAT[83], especially the pilgrims visiting Karbala and paying reverence at the Shrine of Imam Hussayn.  It is necessary to elaborate further on this sad chapter of Islamic history

The Sunni-Shia Divide Over Karbala Pilgrimage and Accusations of Bid’ah

The martyrdom of Imam Husayn (RA) at Karbala (680 CE) remains one of the most defining events in Islamic history, shaping the theological and political rift between Sunni and Shia Muslims. While Shias commemorate Husayn’s sacrifice with deep mourning rituals, including pilgrimages (Ziyarat) to his shrine in Karbala, some Sunni hardliners denounce these practices as Bid’ah (innovation in religion and equating partners with Allah in Islam), a serious charge in Islamic jurisprudence. This tension has fuelled sectarian strife, particularly in modern times.

1. Why Do Some Sunnis Oppose Shia Pilgrimages to Karbala?
2. Theological Differences

• Bid’ah Accusation: Many Sunni scholars, particularly from Salafi/Wahhabi traditions, argue that visiting graves, mourning processions, and constructing shrines are innovations not practiced by the Prophet (PBUH) or the Sahaba 89.
• Hadith Interpretation: Sunnis cite hadiths warning against excessive grave veneration, such as:
  • “Do not make my grave a place of festivity.” (Abu Dawud)
  • “May Allah curse the Jews and Christians; they took the graves of their prophets as places of worship.” (Bukhari)
• Shia Counterargument: Shias respond that Ziyarat (visitation) is rooted in early Islamic tradition, citing:
  • The Prophet (PBUH) visited his mother’s grave 14.
  • Imam Ali (RA) and other companions paid respects at graves 7.

1. Political and Sectarian Hostility

• Historical Suppression: Under Saddam Hussein’s Sunni-dominated Ba’ath regime (1979–2003), Shia pilgrimages to Karbala were banned, and participants faced imprisonment or execution 13.
• Modern Sectarianism: Post-2003, the revival of Shia rituals (e.g., Arba’een pilgrimage, attracting 20+ million) has triggered Sunni backlash, especially in Saudi Arabia and Gulf states, where Shia practices are often labeled as “deviant” 913.
• Takfiri Rhetoric: Extremist Sunni groups (e.g., Al-Qaeda, ISIS) have attacked Shia pilgrims, calling them “grave-worshippers” and “apostates” 58.

2. Key Controversies Around Karbala Pilgrimage
3. Shia Mourning Rituals (Matam, Latmiyat, Processions)

• Self-Flagellation (Tatbir): Some Shia sects practice bloodletting (cutting foreheads with blades), which Sunni scholars condemn as self-harm (Haram) 8.
• Passion Plays (Ta’ziyeh): Dramatizations of Karbala are seen by Sunnis as exaggerated and un-Islamic 13.
• Cursing Yazid and the Sahaba: Some Shia rituals involve denouncing Abu Bakr, Umar, and Yazid, which Sunnis view as disrespect to the Prophet’s companions 8.

1. The Shrine Itself

• Architectural Grandeur: The gold-domed shrines of Husayn and Abbas in Karbala are seen by Salafis as “shirk” (polytheism) for resembling “tomb worship” [84].
• Financial and Political Power: The pilgrimage economy (worth billions annually) is viewed by some Sunnis as an Iranian-backed “Shia expansion” tool.[85]

3. Attempts at Reconciliation and Ongoing Tensions
4. Sunni Scholars Who Recognize Shia Practices

• Al-Azhar Fatwa (1959): Declared Twelver Shias as Muslims and permissible to pray behind them
• Ibn Taymiyyah: Though critical, he did not declare Shias as kuffar [86]

1. Modern Sectarian Violence

• ISIS Attacks: Suicide bombings targeting Shia pilgrims (e.g., 2016 Karrada bombing, 150+ killed) 5.
• Saudi Restrictions: Shias in Qatif and Eastern Province face arrests for mourning Muharram 9.

Conclusion: A Struggle Between Tradition and Tolerance

While mainstream Sunni Islam respects Husayn (RA) as a martyr, hardliners weaponize Bid’ah accusations to justify sectarian exclusion. Meanwhile, Shias see Karbala as sacred resistance against tyranny. The path forward requires:

1. Intra-Muslim dialogue (e.g., Sunni-Shia unity conferences).
2. Condemning extremist takfirism.
3. Recognizing diverse Islamic expressions without delegitimization.

“The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers.” (Quran 49:10)

 

Detailed Analysis of Key Fatwas and Historical Incidents on Sunni-Shia Divisions Over Ashura and Karbala[87]

The Sunni-Shia divide over the commemoration of Ashura and the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (RA) is rooted in theological differences, political history, and conflicting interpretations of Islamic practice. Below is an in-depth examination of fatwas, historical incidents, and sectarian tensions surrounding these issues.

1. Fatwas on Mourning Husayn and Ashura Observance
2. Sunni Fatwas Against Shia Mourning Practices

Many Salafi/Wahhabi scholars condemn Shia mourning rituals (e.g., chest-beating, self-flagellation) as Bid’ah (innovation) and even Shirk (polytheism). Key rulings include:

1. Ibn Taymiyyah’s Condemnation (14th Century)
   • Declared that excessive mourning for Husayn is an innovation, arguing that the Prophet (PBUH) never sanctioned such rituals .
   • Warned against visiting graves for intercession, equating it to pre-Islamic idolatry .
2. Modern Salafi Fatwas (Saudi Arabia, Al-Azhar)[88]
   • Saudi Grand Muftis (e.g., Ibn Baz, Al-Uthaymeen) issued fatwas stating:
     • “Self-flagellation (Tatbir) is Haram” as it violates Quranic prohibitions on self-harm .
     • “Building shrines over graves is forbidden”, citing hadiths against tomb veneration .
   • Al-Azhar (1959) recognized Shias as Muslims but criticized their “exaggerated mourning” as divisive .
3. Lebanon’s Dar al-Fatwa Controversy (2023)
   • Lebanon’s Sunni authority planned to commemorate Husayn’s martyrdom for the first time but postponed it due to fears of politicization .
   • Critics accused them of “legitimizing Shia rituals”, while supporters called it a step toward unity .

1. Shia Fatwas Defending Mourning Rituals

Shia scholars argue that mourning Husayn is a religious duty, citing:

• Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq’s teachings: “Every day is Ashura, every land is Karbala” 7.
• Ayatollah Khomeini’s rulings: Permitted Tatbir as an expression of grief (though some modern Shia clerics discourage it) 7.

2. Historical Incidents Fuelling Sectarian Tensions
3. Saddam Hussein’s Suppression of Shia Mourning (1980s–2003)[89]

• Ban on Ashura processions: Iraqi Shias were arrested or executed for commemorating Karbala 7.
• Destruction of shrines: Saddam’s regime bulldozed Husayn’s shrine in 1991 (later rebuilt post-2003) 7.

1. ISIS Attacks on Shia Pilgrims (2014–2017)[90]

• Karrada bombing (2016): 300+ Shia pilgrims killed in Baghdad 7.
• ISIS propaganda: Labeled Shias as “grave-worshippers” and “apostates” 7.

1. Saudi Restrictions on Shia Mourning

• Eastern Province crackdowns: Shias in Qatif face arrests for public mourning 7.
• State-backed clerics (e.g., Al-Fawzan) declare:
  • “Shia rituals are not part of Islam” 9.

3. Theological Clashes Over Ashura

Sunni View: Fasting, Not Mourning

• Hadith in Sahih Muslim: The Prophet (PBUH) fasted on Ashura to commemorate Moses’ victory over Pharaoh 5.
• Ibn Kathir’s Tafsir: Lists 10+ prophetic events on Ashura (e.g., Noah’s Ark, Adam’s repentance) but omits Husayn’s martyrdom 5.

Shia View: Ashura as a Day of Grief

• Karbala narratives: Focus on Husayn’s sacrifice against tyranny 37.
• Ziyarat Ashura: A pilgrimage prayer condemning Yazid and his army as oppressors 7.

4. Attempts at Reconciliation

1. Al-Azhar’s 1959 Fatwa
   • Recognized Twelver Shias as Muslims but urged them to avoid cursing the Sahaba 1.
2. Iran’s Interfaith Dialogues
   • Khamenei’s calls for unity: “Sunni and Shia blood is equal” 7.
3. Grassroots Movements
   • Arba’een Pilgrimage: 20+ million (including Sunnis) walk to Karbala annually 7.

Conclusion: Can the Divide Be Bridged?

While hardline fatwas deepen sectarianism, moderate voices (e.g., Lebanon’s Dar al-Fatwa) seek common ground. The key lies in:

• Respecting differences in ritual (fasting vs. mourning).
• Condemning Takfirism (declaring others as non-Muslims).
• Focusing on shared beliefs (love for the Prophet’s family).

Quran 49:10 reminds us: “The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers.”

A Practical Guide for Promoting Sunni-Shia Unity (While Navigating Risks)

As a peacebuilder in a volatile sectarian climate, the author’s mission is both noble and perilous. The author as a member of a step-by-step, actionable approach to foster unity while minimizing risks:

1. Start with Personal Education & Self-Reflection

Before engaging others, solidify personal knowledge and intentions:

• Study shared theology: Emphasize common ground (Tawheed, Quran, love for Ahl al-Bayt).
• Acknowledge historical grievances: Recognize legitimate Sunni/Shia concerns without fuelling polemics.
• Avoid partisan language: Replace “You Shias/Sunnis are wrong” with “How can we honor the Prophet’s legacy together?”

Example:

Instead of debating who “rightly” succeeded the Prophet (PBUH), focus on how Ali (RA) and Abu Bakr (RA) respected each other (e.g., Ali prayed behind Abu Bakr as Caliph).

2. Build Trust Through “Neutral” Spaces

Safe, non-religious platforms reduce suspicion:

• Joint community service: Organize Sunni-Shia blood drives, soup kitchens, or disaster relief.
• Cultural exchanges: Host events celebrating shared Islamic art, calligraphy, or Sufi poetry (which transcends sects).
• Interfaith dialogues: Include Christians/Jews to shift focus from intra-Muslim disputes to collective justice issues.

Case Study:

In post-ISIS Iraq, Imams of Mosul rebuilt both Sunni and Shia mosques together, using the slogan:
“The Prophet (PBUH) built one mosque—why do we need two?”

3. Amplify Unifying Narratives

Highlight historical and modern examples of coexistence:

• The Prophet’s (PBUH) Farewell Sermon: “All Muslims are brothers.” (Hadith: Muslim)
• Saladin’s unity: Sunni and Shia fought side-by-side against Crusaders.
• Modern heroes: Share stories like Ayatollah Sistani protecting Sunni mosques in Iraq or Sunni clerics defending Shia pilgrims.

Action:

Create social media content (anonymous if needed) with hashtags like #UnitedUmmah or #OneUmmah.

4. Address Grievances Without Inflaming Passions

Acknowledge pain while redirecting toward solutions:

• For Sunnis:
  • “We honor Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA), but can we also mourn Husayn (RA) as the Prophet’s grandson?”
• For Shias:
  • “We weep for Karbala, but can we also acknowledge Sunni scholars who condemned Yazid?”

Script for Sensitive Discussions:

“I’m not asking you to abandon your beliefs. I’m asking: Can we love the Prophet (PBUH) so much that we refuse to let his family’s blood divide us further?”

5. Security Measures for High-Risk Areas

If threats are credible:

• Anonymity: Use pseudonyms online or publish unity materials anonymously.
• Alliances: Partner with respected local leaders (e.g., tribal elders, Sufi scholars) who can shield you.
• Exit strategy: Have contingency plans (e.g., relocate if threats escalate).

Example:

In Pakistan, Sunni and Shia activists formed “The Peace Committee” but kept members’ identities secret to avoid assassinations.

6. Leverage Islamic Scripture for Reconciliation

Use Quran/hadith that transcend sectarianism:

• Quran 3:103: “Hold firmly to Allah’s rope and do not divide.”
• Hadith (Tirmidhi): “Whoever calls to division is not of us.”
• Imam Ali’s (RA) letter to Malik al-Ashtar: “The people are of two kinds: your brothers in faith or your equals in humanity.”

Workshop Idea:

Host a Quranic reflection circle where Sunnis and Shias study verses on unity without mentioning sects.

7. Counter Extremist Rhetoric with Logic

When confronted with takfiris (those who declare others apostates):

1. Ask questions:
   • “Did the Prophet (PBUH) ever curse a Muslim as a kafir for differences in practice?”
2. Cite consensus:
   • “Al-Azhar, Ibn Taymiyyah, and even Saudi muftis historically recognized Shias as Muslims.”
3. Redirect:
   • “If we spend our energy fighting each other, who benefits? The enemies of Islam.”

8. Focus on the Next Generation

Children are less indoctrinated. Initiatives could include:

• Integrated schools: Where Sunni/Shia kids learn shared Islamic history.
• Sports leagues: Unified teams with names like “Ansar of Medina” (honoring early Muslim unity).
• Storybooks: Publishing children’s books about Sunni and Shia heroes working together.

Success Story:

In Lebanon, the “Youth for Peace” program reduced sectarian hate among teens by 40% through joint activities.

Final Advice: The “Prophetic Patience” Approach

1. Start small: Even changing one person’s heart is a victory.
2. Expect backlash: The Prophet (PBUH) was mocked for 13 years before triumph.
3. Prioritize safety: Your life matters—don’t risk martyrdom unnecessarily.

“If Allah guides one person through you, it is better than red camels (the most prized possession).”
— Hadith (Bukhari)

May Allah protect you and make you a bridge for unity. Stay steadfast, wise, and compassionate.

Did Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) predict the Shia -Sunni sectarianism before His demise[91]

The question of whether Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) predicted the Sunni-Shia divide before his demise is a complex theological and historical issue. While there are no explicit Quranic verses or universally accepted hadiths where the Prophet directly names “Sunni” and “Shia” as future sects, both traditions cite narrations that they interpret as alluding to divisions within the Muslim community (Ummah). Below is a breakdown of key perspectives:

1. Sunni Interpretations

• Hadith on Division: The Prophet reportedly said, “The Jews split into 71 sects, the Christians into 72, and my Ummah will divide into 73—all in Hellfire except one.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3992). Sunnis argue this warns against sectarianism but does not specify Shia-Sunni splits .
• Emphasis on Unity: Sunni scholars stress the Prophet’s calls for communal cohesion (e.g., “Hold fast to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the Rightly Guided Caliphs”), viewing later divisions as political rather than divinely foretold.

2. Shia Interpretations

• Ghadir Khumm: Shias cite the Prophet’s declaration at Ghadir Khumm (“Whoever I am his master, Ali is his master”) [92]as a clear appointment of Ali (RA) as successor, implying future disputes would arise from ignoring this.
• Predictions of Karbala: Some Shia hadiths state the Prophet foresaw Husayn’s martyrdom, weeping over soil from Karbala. This is seen as anticipating the Sunni-Shia rift post-Husayn’s death .

3. Neutral Academic Views

• Political, Not Prophetic: Historians note early disputes (e.g., Saqifa) were about power, not theology. Sectarian identities solidified centuries later.
• Later Attributions: Many “predictive” hadiths were likely retrojected after conflicts like Karbala to legitimize sectarian stances .

Conclusion

While the Prophet warned of general divisions, explicit “Sunni-Shia” terminology is absent in early texts. Both sects project later conflicts onto his words, reflecting historical trauma more than literal prophecy.

 

For further reading the author recommends: Sunni-Shia Divide Explained  or Early Succession Disputes .

 

Message for the Readers: The divide emerged from post-prophetic politics, not a direct prophecy, though both sides use hadiths to justify their narratives. Saudi is Wahabism, Iran is Shia and South Africa is Sunni with pockets of Muslims who observe Shia rituals.

The Muslim communities in South Africa and globally, can be categorized as follows, with precise terminology reflecting their theological and jurisprudential identities:

1. Saudi Arabia: Wahhabi/Salafi (A Subset of Sunni Islam)

• Official Designation: Hanbali Sunni (Wahhabi/Salafi reform movement)[93]
• Key Traits:
  • Follow the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab (18th century).
  • Reject shrine visitation, Sufism, and Shia practices as bid’ah (innovation) or shirk (polytheism).
  • State-enforced in Saudi Arabia via religious police (historically) and clerical institutions.

2. Iran: Twelver Shia (Ja’fari Madhhab)[94]

• Official Designation: Ithna Ashari (Twelver) Shia
• Key Traits:
  • Follow the 12 Imams, with allegiance to Ayatollahs as jurists (Wilayat al-Faqih system).
  • Observe Ashura mourning, temporary marriage (mut’ah), and pilgrimage to Karbala/Najaf.
  • Reject the legitimacy of the first three caliphs (Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman).

3. South Africa: Mixed Sunni with Shia-Influenced Minorities[95]

• Sunni Majority: Primarily Hanafi or Shafi’i (traditional Sunni schools).
• Shia Minority: Mostly Twelver Shia (Iranian/Lebanese diaspora) and Ismailis (Aga Khan followers).
• Unique Case: “Shia-Leaning” Sunnis
  • Some Sunni communities in South Africa (e.g., Cape Malay) incorporate Shia-influenced practices like:
    • Mourning Husayn during Muharram (though not self-flagellation).
    • Visiting shrines of local saints (awliya), which Wahhabis reject but Sufi-inclined Sunnis accept.
  • Terminology for These Groups:
    • “Sufi-Influenced Sunnis”: If they venerate saints but don’t reject Sunni caliphs.
    • “Shia-Sympathizing Sunnis”: If they adopt Ashura rituals but still identify as Sunni.
    • “Non-Sectarian Muslims”: If they consciously blend practices without strict allegiance.

4. Comparative Summary

Country	Dominant Sect	Minority Groups	Notable Practices
Saudi Arabia	Wahhabi Sunni	Small Shia minority (Eastern Province)	Rejects shrines, enforces Wahhabi doctrine
Iran	Twelver Shia	Sunni minorities (Kurds, Baloch)	Ashura processions, vilayat-e faqih
South Africa	Sunni (Hanafi/Shafi’i)	Shia, Sufi, and hybrid groups	Shrine visits, eclectic Muharram observance

Key Clarifications

• Wahhabism ≠ All Sunnis: Most Sunnis (e.g., in Egypt, Indonesia) are not Wahhabi but follow Maliki, Shafi’i, or Hanafi schools.
• Shia-Sunni Hybrids Are Rare: Most Muslims identify firmly as one or the other, but syncretism exists in regions like South Asia or Africa.
• Avoid “Shia-Sunni” for Blended Groups: Terms like “Sufi-Reformist” or “Cultural Muslim” may fit better for those defying rigid categorization.

Final Note: Labels matter less than self-identification. When in doubt, readers are recommended to enquire from unknown Muslim individuals as to how they identify themselves, before assigning a particular sectarian classification.

 

The Role of Third Force Activities in Widening the Shia-Sunni Muslim Rift[96]

It is important to appreciate that external actors, governments and radical clerics, with vested interests who would benefit from widening the rift between Shias and Sunni sects are complicit, in ensuring the the different Islamic sects are never, ever united, but their influence thrives where states fail and youth are disenfranchised. Key mechanisms deployed are:

1. Geopolitical Manipulation

• Saudi Arabia and Iran: Use sectarianism to mask power struggles. Saudi Wahhabism funds anti-Shia rhetoric; Iran’s “Axis of Resistance” weaponizes Shia victimhood 26.
• Foreign Interventions: The 2003 Iraq War dismantled the state, creating a vacuum filled by sectarian militias 811.

2. Indoctrination by Dogmatic Clerics and Ulama as custodians of Islam in different regions.

• Sunni Extremists: Salafi preachers label Shia as “apostates,” citing Ibn Taymiyyah’s polemics 17.
• Shia Hardliners: Some maraji’ promote cult-like loyalty to the Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist), framing dissent as betrayal 610.
• Youth Radicalization by Maulanas, Muftis and community leaders.:
  • Sunni: ISIS recruited disillusioned youth by framing Shia as “Persian invaders” This was even ubdertaken in South Africa by ISIS operatives who demonised the Shias encouraging the radicalosed youth to go off to fight for ISIS with stark realisation following disastrous consequences.9.
  • Shia: Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah glorify martyrdom, tying it to anti-Western resistance 6.

3. Economic Despair as a Catalyst

• Marginalized youth (Sunni or Shia) join militias for survival, not ideology. In Iraq, unemployment rates of 25%+ make sectarian groups the only “employers” 8.

A Path Forward: Disrupting the Cycle

While the situation seems bleak, history shows sectarianism ebbs when material needs are met and political agency is restored.

1. Target the Root Causes:
   • Jobs over Jihad: Invest in vocational training in Sunni-majority Fallujah and Shia-majority Basra.
   • Reform Education: Replace hate curricula with shared Islamic ethics (e.g., Qatar’s post-2017 reforms) 8.
2. Amplify Moderate Voices:
   • Sunni: Promote Sufi orders (like Senegal’s Tijaniyyah) that reject sectarian hate 1.
   • Shia: Support clerics like Sistani who condemn takfir and prioritize civic unity 10.
3. Expose the Profiteers:
   • Name and shame politicians who incite violence before elections (e.g., Maliki in Iraq, 2010–2014) 8.
   • Cut extremist funding: Pressure Gulf states to monitor mosque donations 2.
4. Humanize the “Other”:
   • Inter-sect dialogues: Highlight historical coexistence (e.g., Al-Azhar’s 2016 Sunni-Shia unity conference) 5.
   • Art as Resistance: Use platforms like ShiaSunni.org to share stories of cross-sect solidarity 11.

A Final Note on Hope and what can be done about this Intra-Islamic Divide causing Peace Disruption?

Transcend Media Journal is a peace, solution orientated ,publication and is an ideal platform to transform conflict scenarios to bloom into Peace Happiness. The despair is palpable in the Islamic community and is valid even in South Africa, who remains indifferent, to the disunity, noting that this rift has claimed too many lives. But remember: The same Karbala narrative used to divide also inspires universal resistance to oppression. Today, Iraqi Sunnis and Shia protest together against corruption; in Lebanon, secular youth reject Hezbollah and Salafism.

As the Quran reminds: “Hold firmly to the rope of Allah and do not divide” (3:103). The rope is still there, we must grasp it before those who would rather see it frayed.

 

An in-depth analysis is warranted as to how Sunni, Shia, and blended Muslim communities interact in South Africa, with real-world examples of both tensions and unity:

Sunni-Shia Dynamics in South Africa: Coexistence and Friction

1. Sunni Majority (85-90% of SA Muslims)

• Dominant Groups:
  • Cape Malay: Hanafi Sunnis with Sufi influences (Qadiriyya/Chishti orders).
  • Indian-origin Muslims: Mostly Hanafi (Durban/Johannesburg), some Deobandi-influenced.
• Attitudes Toward Shia:
  • Tolerant Majority: Most cooperate with Shia on civic issues (e.g., halal certification, mosque projects).
  • Salafi Minority: Groups like Jamiatul Ulama South Africa (Deobandi-leaning) reject Shia rituals as bid’ah.

2. Shia Minority (5-8%, Growing)

• Communities:
  • Twelver Shia: Primarily Lebanese/Iranian diaspora (Johannesburg/Cape Town), with mosques like Imam Hussain Islamic Centre (Durban).
  • Ismailis: Follow Aga Khan, centered in Cape Town (e.g., Ismaili Jamatkhana).
• Practices:
  • Public Ashura processions in Durban (since 1980s), though smaller than in Iran/Iraq.
  • Tactical Adaptation: Avoid provocative slogans (e.g., cursing caliphs) to maintain Sunni relations.

3. Blended Groups (Sufi-Leaning Sunnis with Shia Influences)

• Example: Cape Malay “Hussaini” Groups
  • Observe Muharram with latmiyat (poetic elegies) but reject self-flagellation.
  • Visit kramats (Sufi shrines) while honoring Husayn—a fusion Wahhabis condemn.
• Terminology: They call themselves “Ahl al-Bayt Sunnis” to avoid sectarian labels.

Case Studies of Interaction

1. Cooperation: The “United Ulama Council of SA”

• Joint Fatwas: Sunni (MJC) and Shia scholars collaborated on issues like:
  • Palestine solidarity (shared rallies).
  • Opposing LGBTQ+ curriculum in schools.
• Limits: No joint prayers; doctrinal differences remain.

1. Tension: Ashura Processions in Durban

• 2005 Incident: Salafis distributed pamphlets calling Shia rituals “Hindu-influenced”.
• Shia Response: Invited Sunni imams to observe Muharram, emphasizing “This is about love for the Prophet’s family, not sectarianism.”

1. Unique Syncretism: The “Ahl al-Bayt Society” (Cape Town)

• Practice: Blends Sunni Salah with Shia-style du’a Kumayl on Thursday nights.
• Sunni Backlash: Accused of “stealth conversion”, but members insist they’re “just Muslims.”

 

Key Challenges and Opportunities

Issue	Sunni Stance	Shia Stance	Blended Groups
Ashura Observance	Reject mourning rituals	Full processions	Poetry recitals only
Intermarriage	Rare (requires conversion)	Allowed if Sunni accepts Shia	Increasingly common in Cape Town
Political Influence	MJC dominates Muslim voice	Lobby via Iranian cultural centers	Seek neutral representation

Lessons from South Africa’s Model[97]

1. Civic Unity Over Theology: Cooperation on social justice (e.g., anti-apartheid legacy) builds trust.
2. Avoid Provocation: Shia downplay polemical slogans; Sunnis tolerate shrines in multicultural spaces.
3. Youth Bridging Gaps: Inter-sect Muslim student groups (e.g., UCT’s MSA) focus on service, not dogma.

Quote from a Cape Town Imam:

“Here, we argue about cricket more than caliphs. The mosque and the mosque next door may pray differently, but we protest together when Muslims are oppressed overseas.”

What This Means for Peacebuilders

• Leverage Shared South African Identity: Frame unity as part of the nation’s “rainbow” ethos.
• Focus on Local Issues: Housing, Islamophobia, and gang violence unite more than abstract theology.
• Document Successes: South Africa’s “live and let live” approach could inspire other divided communities.

Sunni reluctance toward interfaith dialogue—a stance rooted in theological conservatism, fears of syncretism, and political anxieties. As a seasoned peacebuilder (KZN IRC/Religions for Peace), you’re uniquely positioned to navigate this. Below are actionable strategies to engage Sunni communities while respecting their red lines:

1. Reframe “Interfaith” as “Intra-Muslim Unity First”

Why It Works: Many Sunnis reject interfaith dialogue but may embrace Sunni-Shia reconciliation as an Islamic duty.

How To Implement:

• Avoid the term “interfaith” initially. Instead, use:
  • “Quranic command to unite the Ummah” (3:103).
  • “Reviving the Prophet’s (PBUH) treaty with Christians by first healing Muslim divisions.”
• Case Study: In Cape Town, the “Muslim Unity Forum” (Sunni/Shia) later expanded to Christians/Jews—after establishing internal trust.

2. Leverage Sunni Scholars Who Support Controlled Dialogue

Key Allies:

• Sufi-Inclined Sunnis: They’re often open to interfaith work (e.g., Darul Ihsan in Durban).
• Pragmatic Salafis: Focus on shared goals (e.g., opposing LGBTQ+ education in schools).

Script for Engagement:

“Shaykh, we’re not asking you to dilute ‘aqeedah. But if we don’t speak with one voice against Islamophobia, the government will impose policies on all of us—Sunni and Shia alike.”

3. Highlight Historical Sunni Precedents for Dialogue

Examples to Cite:

• Saladin’s Alliance with Christians against Crusaders.
• Ottoman millet system protecting Jews/Christians.
• Prophet’s (PBUH) Treaty of Medina with Jews.

Tactic: Distribute pamphlets titled “When Sunnis Led Interfaith Coexistence” to counter the “adulteration” narrative.

4. Address Core Sunni Fears Directly

Their Concerns	Your Response
“Dialogue = Compromising ‘Aqeedah”	“We’ll never negotiate on Tawheed or the Finality of Prophethood. This is about civic cooperation, not theology.”
“Shias/Christians Will Proselytize”	“Make dawah to them—but first, let’s stop fighting each other in public. The kuffar laugh at our divisions.”
“Government Will Favor Non-Muslims”	“United, Muslims are 3% of SA. Divided, we’re irrelevant. Even the Quran says to cooperate on justice (5:8).”

5. Work Through Secular Platforms

Neutral Venues Reduce Suspicion:

• Joint Humanitarian Work: Partner with Sunni NGOs like Gift of the Givers on disaster relief.
• Academic Settings: Host university debates on “Muslim Contributions to SA’s Constitution”—this frames dialogue as patriotic, not theological.
• Media: Write op-eds in The Daily Vox or Radio Islam emphasizing “Muslim unity strengthens our voice against land seizures/Islamophobia.”

6. The “Ahl al-Kitab” Loophole

Theological Justification: Many Sunnis accept limited cooperation with “People of the Book” (Jews/Christians) per Quran 29:46.
How To Use It:

• Start with Jewish-Muslim partnerships (e.g., opposing Zionism together)—less controversial than Hindu/Christian ties.
• Cite Saudi Arabia’s recent interfaith conferences (though symbolic, they provide cover).

7. Safety Nets for Sunni Participants

• Reduce Social Backlash:

• Anonymity: Let Sunni allies approve statements without public attribution.
• Fatwa Backing: Use rulings from Al-Azhar or late Mufti Ismail Menk (“Cooperation on justice is permissible”).

Final Encouragement

The Prophet (PBUH) endured 13 years of mockery for his message. Today, your work faces similar resistance—but South Africa’s history proves walls do fall.

“Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Quran 13:11)

 

What can the members and readers of Transcend Media Service do to eradicate the Sunni-Shia belligerence and disharmony?

Proposed Unity and Peace Propagating Strategies

A step-by-step strategic plan is proposed to expand the interfaith/sectarian harmony initiatives, leveraging existing platform in you region,  while addressing local realities in South Africa and beyond:

Phase 1: Strengthen Local Foundations

1. Map Existing Assets

• Inventory trusted allies: Identify moderate Sunni/Shia clerics, NGOs, and community leaders already open to dialogue (e.g., Sufi tariqas in Cape Town, Twelver Shia councils in Durban).
• Document success stories: Compile cases where Sunni-Shia cooperation worked (e.g., joint anti-gang violence programs in Mitchells Plain).

2. Build a “Unity Task Force”

• Recruit diversely: Include Sunni (Hanafi/Shafi’i), Shia (Twelver/Ismaili), and secular Muslim voices (academics, journalists).
• Safe participation: Allow anonymous membership for those fearing backlash.

3. Develop a Shared Narrative

• Frame around local issues: Shift focus from theology to:
  • Crime: “Gangs don’t ask if you’re Sunni or Shia before attacking.”
  • Islamophobia: “Media stereotypes all Muslims—let’s control our own story.”

Phase 2: Targeted Interventions

4. Youth Engagement

• “Sports for Peace” leagues: Mixed Sunni-Shia soccer/cricket teams with names like Ansar United (referencing Medinan unity).
• Social media campaigns: TikTok/short videos featuring Sunni and Shia youth reciting “We agree on 95% of Islam—let’s focus on that.”

5. Women-Led Bridgebuilding

• Inter-sect Quran circles: Study verses on justice (e.g., Surah Al-Hujurat) without sectarian commentary.
• Joint charity drives: Sunni/Shia women distributing food parcels in townships—neutral acts that build trust.

6. Clerical Diplomacy

• Closed-door scholar dialogues: Host private retreats for Sunni (e.g., MJC-affiliated) and Shia (e.g., Ahlul Bait Foundation) scholars to draft a “Minimum Agreement on Muslim Unity”.
• Public symbolic acts: Coordinate joint iftars during Ramadan where Sunni and Shia mosques break fast together (timing differences acknowledged but not debated).

Phase 3: Institutionalize Change

7. Educational Reforms

• Workshops for madrasa teachers: Provide resources teaching Islamic history without sectarian bias (e.g., present Ali and Abu Bakr as companions, not rivals).
• School exchanges: Partner with Model UN-style programs where students debate “How would the Prophet (PBUH) resolve Sunni-Shia tensions today?”

8. Media and Arts

• Documentaries: Profile families with Sunni/Shia members (e.g., “My Sunni Father, My Shia Mother”).
• Music/Spoken Word: Commission artists to produce works on shared Islamic heroes (e.g., Saladin, Rumi).

9. Policy Advocacy

• Lobby government: Propose a National Day of Muslim Unity (officially recognized) to counter sectarian groups.
• Monitor hate speech: Partner with tech firms to flag online sectarian incitement while protecting free speech.

Phase 4: Scale Beyond South Africa

10. Replicate Models Regionally

• Partner with Mozambique/Tanzania: Adapt programs for their Sunni-Shia minorities.
• Global networks: Link with initiatives like:
  • Indonesia’s Nahdlatul Ulama (Sunni-led interfaith work).
  • Iraq’s “Tent of Abraham” (Sunni-Shia youth dialogues).

11. Digital Expansion

• Online courses: Certifications in “Islamic Conflict Mediation” for clergy/activists.
• Crowdsourced peace pledges: Viral campaigns like “I’m Sunni/Shia, and I reject division.”

Overcoming Obstacles

• Backlash Mitigation:
  • Sunni critics: Respond with Quran 49:10 (“Believers are brothers”) and hadith like “Do not revile my Companions” (Bukhari) to preempt accusations of “Shia bias.”
  • Shia sceptics: Emphasize Husayn’s universal message: “He died for justice, not just for Shias.”
• Funding: Seek grants from neutral bodies (e.g., UN Peacebuilding Fund, local businesses).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Goal	Metric	Timeline
Local unity networks	5 new task forces launched	6 months
Youth engagement	500+ participants in sports leagues	1 year
Clerical agreements	10 scholars sign unity pact	18 months
Policy changes	1 government day of recognition	2 years

 

Final Thought

The Prophet (PBUH) unified warring tribes under Islam’s banner. Today’s divisions are man-made, not divine and thus, they can be unmade. The work of the author in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, in South Africa proves this is not idealism; it is a practical, humanistic community centred, prophetic activity.[98]

 

The Bottom Line

The Bottom Line is that the emergence of sectarianism in a previously united Islamic brotherhood is the basic cause of the belligerence continuously demonstrated against Muslims, globally. Until and unless, the warring sects engage in inter-sectarian dialogue, there is no hope for any future reconciliation, with the western powers literally relishing on the religio-political situation, between the Shias and Sunnis.

The Quran encapsulates this freedom of a style of worship, paraphrased as “To you your religion, and to me mine”, and it comes from Surah Al-Kafirun (Chapter 109), verse 6:

 

Quranic Verse: Surah Al-Kafirun (109:6)[99]

Arabic:

لَكُمْ دِينُكُمْ وَلِيَ دِينِ

Transliteration:

Lakum deenukum wa liya deen

English Translation:

“For you is your religion, and for me is my religion.”

This verse is part of a short but powerful chapter that emphasizes religious tolerance, freedom of belief, and the clear distinction between faiths without hostility. It is often cited in interfaith contexts or when discussing respectful coexistence.

 

The verse “لَكُمْ دِينُكُمْ وَلِيَ دِينِ” (“To you your religion, and to me mine”) from Surah Al-Kāfirūn (109:6) was revealed in Mecca, during the early period of Islam, and its context is both powerful and historically significant.

 

Context and Circumstances of Revelation

Location: Mecca

Period: Early Meccan period, when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was facing intense opposition from the Quraysh.[100]

Background of the Revelation of the Quranic verse:

The Quraysh leaders, the dominant tribe in Mecca, approached the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ with a compromise proposal. They suggested:

 

“Let us worship what you worship for a year, and you worship what we worship for a year. If what you worship is better, we will benefit from it; and if what we worship is better, you will benefit from it.”

 

This was an attempt to dilute the monotheistic message of Islam and preserve the polytheistic status quo.

 

Divine Response: Surah Al-Kāfirūn

In response, Allah revealed Surah Al-Kāfirūn, a short but emphatic declaration of religious distinction and integrity:

 

“Say: O disbelievers!

I do not worship what you worship,

Nor do you worship what I worship.

Nor will I ever worship what you worship,

Nor will you ever worship what I worship.

To you your religion, and to me mine.”

(Qur’an 109:1–6)

 

Ashura: Key Themes and Lessons for all Humanity and Religious Freedom in Islam:

• Islam acknowledges the right of others to follow their beliefs.
• No Compromise in Faith: The Prophet ﷺ was instructed to remain firm in monotheism.
• Peaceful Coexistence: The verse promotes mutual respect without aggression.
• Finality: It draws a clear line between belief systems, without hostility.

References:

[1] Author’s personal quote July 2025

[2] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c242625b75df12d4c760d63cd41c84036e06ddc84de8ccdab88e94c2946e7962JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Day+of+Ashura&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQXNodXJh&ntb=1

[3] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=349477d3e39854e68af619477d603f0d54b060e2e8e07cd3857fdccfff71da13JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=gregorian+calendar+vs+julian+calendar&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudGltZWFuZGRhdGUuY29tL2NhbGVuZGFyL2p1bGlhbi1ncmVnb3JpYW4tc3dpdGNoLmh0bWw&ntb=1

[4] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c454dea7d9f2b6eed8dc52a2753c738d3c97e3e01ab70cdaa8037e0b0d62000aJmltdHM9MTc1MjE5MjAwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=umayyad+caliph+yazid&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvWWF6aWRfSQ&ntb=1

[5] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=15dc65056e9e86e1318c108922f659c6dbafc68407dbccb4b7d84caa9106b2d5JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=battle+of+karbala+sunni+view&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWwtaXNsYW0ub3JnL3NoaWl0ZS1lbmN5Y2xvcGVkaWEvdHJhZ2VkeS1rYXJiYWxhLXJlcG9ydGVkLXN1bm5pcy1wYXJ0LTE&ntb=1

[6] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=eafbd49a1ffabea56b1c5ea35a6be28621a8d692a73f3f3d2d18807d908996fcJmltdHM9MTc1MjE5MjAwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=define+the+word+caliph&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGljdGlvbmFyeS5jb20vYnJvd3NlL2NhbGlwaA&ntb=1

[7] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=61969e15b5da4afdb708c6f5ae5032f80e1799148702374ffff2ed802b6cc5d4JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=define+the+word+caliph&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQ2FsaXBoYXRl&ntb=1

[8] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=62169d0a27f89c2bde85d4cd0de49faf024e522b4cf12e4954c24c1f855402bdJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09rashidun+caliphate+rashidun+caliphate+wikipedia&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvUmFzaGlkdW5fQ2FsaXBoYXRl&ntb=1

[9] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=1e9119e22a7af9a164b6f170e7816695c56cbd01c5da272daabf5c552d34cc12JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09umayyad+caliphate+umayyad+caliphate+wikipedia&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvVW1heXlhZF9DYWxpcGhhdGU&ntb=1

[10] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ddb832bec9a4d467780597cf5ee3f4f6e6dd8bf0007a00b77c914181d015b76fJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09abbasid+caliphate+abbasid+caliphate+definition&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQWJiYXNpZF9DYWxpcGhhdGU&ntb=1

[11] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5d24c2f6f055125b6badfb180e071dac812b9d9d11cd8509c18f410f1f2a695bJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09ottoman+caliphate+wikipedia&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvT3R0b21hbl9DYWxpcGhhdGU&ntb=1

[12] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=59713a0761ccd6add4183ece15b75cb30dce765450bfd51e486a6670ab74f199JmltdHM9MTc1MjE5MjAwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=PBUH&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubGVhcm5yZWxpZ2lvbnMuY29tL2lzbGFtaWMtYWJicmV2aWF0aW9uLXBidWgtMjAwNDI4OA&ntb=1

[13] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_al-Harra

[14] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=0abac75972bc6d6483eb248571a3ec5cd6bb17f51566710e20c2c82b13cacfbaJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Yazid+1+ruled+from+680+to+683+CE.+The+Battle+of+Karbala+occurred+shortly+after+he+came+to+power%2c+and+it+involved+the+martyrdom+of+Husayn+ibn+Ali%2c+the+grandson+of+the+Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)+%2c+along+with+his+family+and+companions.+Yazid+I%27s+demand+for+allegiance+from+Husayn+and+the+subsequent+refusal+led+to+the+tragic+events+at+Karbala.+It+is+to+be+noted+that+Yazid+II+(Yazid+ibn+Abd+al-Malik)%2c+on+the+other+hand%2c+ruled+much+later%2c+from+720+to+724+CE%2c+and+had+no+involvement+in+the+tragic+events+of+Karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYnJpdGFubmljYS5jb20vYmlvZ3JhcGh5L1lhemlkLUk&ntb=1

[15] TRANSCEND MEDIA SERVICE » Blood in the Sand: How Ashura Transformed Islamic History’s Greatest Tragedy into a Peace Destroying Sectarianism (Part 1)

[16] www.drfirozmahboobkamal.com/blog/the-ummah-is-in-catastrophic-turmoil/

[17] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=61bb30c573a9d5dad7ef1ac2aa22d86e3df0b7c79ee65c87f122cc2026a4c40fJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Karbala+is+situated+about+100+km+(62+miles)+southwest+of+Baghdad%2c+Iraq.+It+lies+to+the+northeast+of+Medina&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvS2FyYmFsYQ&ntb=1

[18] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=0f3e51ff58b3418ba33f78f52e863f5a9b83db40dba52befe34e567c6af7c5a9JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Political+and+religio-spiritual+significance+of+Imam+Husayn%27s+Martyrdom&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zaGlhc3R1ZGllcy5jb20vZW4vMTMyMjgvcGhpbG9zb3BoeS1tYXJ0eXJkb20taW1hbS1odXNheW4tcy8&ntb=1

[19] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d19147209d3cfb4ff77a47563b99b4726da19f0d8eebc0a28aa08e2ba1fb3a32JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Political+and+religio-spiritual+significance+of+Imam+Husayn%27s+Martyrdom&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9tdXNsaW1taXJyb3IuY29tL2xlc3NvbnMtZnJvbS10aGUtbWFydHlyZG9tLW9mLWh1c3NhaW4tYS1zLw&ntb=1

[20] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e85f0e8137889a83bd7f357f9f46ea55e59a23bbc0e24c0647c4b3198833ada2JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ashura+is+Observed+Predominantly+by+Shia+Muslims&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubWlkZGxlZWFzdGV5ZS5uZXQvZGlzY292ZXIvd2hhdC1pcy1hc2h1cmEtaG93LWRvLXNoaWEtc3VubmktbXVzbGltcy1vYnNlcnZlIzp-OnRleHQ9T24gQXNodXJhLCBTaGlhIHByZWFjaGVycw&ntb=1

[21] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=b741760f107d1df672002c433a3bb295d4d9e9962fae44dc10a14771268b7df7JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Key+Differences+between+Shia+and+Sunni+Muslims+Observance+of+Ashura+Highlighted%3a&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuc3VubmFmaWxlcy5jb20vYXNodXJhLXN1bm5pLXZzLXNoaWEv&ntb=1

[22] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ddd898dea443f404383075c74ab9cd4182ec6c8cfa6030b4bb23c9d019d4e2bdJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=10th+of+tishrei+wikipedia&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2hhYmFkLm9yZy9saWJyYXJ5L2FydGljbGVfY2RvL2FpZC8yMjYzNDYyL2pld2lzaC9UaXNocmVpLmh0bQ&ntb=1

[23] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f4f810f473573eed70855538fc1879bd932df81f01a227bbb6fdd34f2a92f785JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Moses+receiving+the+second+set+of+tablets+(Exodus+34%3a28)+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kaXZpbmVuYXJyYXRpdmVzLm9yZy90aGUtc2Vjb25kLXNldC1vZi10ZW4tY29tbWFuZG1lbnRzLWluLWV4b2R1cy0zNC1hbmFseXNpcy1hbmQtaW1wbGljYXRpb25zLw&ntb=1

[24] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=780b346fd053f3e7e20fa436807544f78ee64f2effc67e25169a0ccbc08b381aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09Noah%e2%80%99s+Ark+resting+on+Mount+Ararat+(Genesis+8%3a4).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iaWJsZWh1Yi5jb20vZ2VuZXNpcy84LTQuaHRt&ntb=1

[25] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5220f1e6428a97694f13a1469254e320b5ec872651f33bf8c0e694033858f33aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Noah%e2%80%99s+Ark+saved+from+the+flood+(Tafsir+Ibn+Kathir).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zdXJhaHF1cmFuLmNvbS90YWZzaXItZW5nbGlzaC1heWEtMTEtc29yYS02OS5odG1s&ntb=1

[26] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=dd8d00c759355ca0dbd1251000262b3ec87448553a647ef335ee6ef744b7e204JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Moses+and+the+Israelites+saved+from+Pharaoh+(Sahih+Bukhari).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zdW5uYWguY29tL2J1a2hhcmk6MzM5Nw&ntb=1

[27] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=da2c602afa31512f9509c07bad718e4734c3e170e4fa69f71a1919a789618cfaJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=o%09Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)+intended+to+fast+on+this+day+and+encouraged+Muslims+to+fast+(either+the+9th+%26+10th+or+10th+%26+11th+of+Muharram).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hYm91dGlzbGFtLm5ldC9yZWFkaW5nLWlzbGFtL2xpdmluZy1pc2xhbS93aHktZGlkLXRoZS1wcm9waGV0LWZhc3Qtb24tdGhlLWRheS1vZi1hc2h1cmEvIzp-OnRleHQ9RmFzdGluZyUyMG9uJTIwTXVoYXJyYW0lMjAxMCUyQyUyMGtub3duJTIwYXMlMjB0aGUlMjBEYXksZGF5LiUyMFRoZXklMjBzYWlkJTNBJTIwJUUyJTgwJTlDVGhpcyUyMGlzJTIwYSUyMGJsZXNzZWQlMjBkYXkuJUUyJTgwJTlE&ntb=1

[28] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=9a2ae7721270348bf3e36db17a3100a066e38562402abd7f89c48f6503ccd747JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=yom+kippur+meaning&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2hhYmFkLm9yZy9saWJyYXJ5L2FydGljbGVfY2RvL2FpZC8xNzc4ODYvamV3aXNoL1doYXQtSXMtWW9tLUtpcHB1ci5odG0&ntb=1

[29] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a25d11c32ce22fba3a68f80158afababeed46a3954e541a473b04663830fb28cJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=as+in+islam&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYW5zd2Vycy5jb20vcmVsaWdpb24tYW5kLXNwaXJpdHVhbGl0eS9XaGF0LWlzLXRoZS1zaWduaWZpY2FuY2Utb2YtYXMtaW4taXNsYW0jOn46dGV4dD1UaGUlMjB0ZXJtJTIwJTIyYS5zLiUyMiUyMGlzJTIwYW4lMjBhYmJyZXZpYXRpb24lMjB1c2VkJTIwYnksc2hvdyUyMHJldmVyZW5jZSUyMGZvciUyMHRoZXNlJTIwaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMlMjBpbiUyMElzbGFtaWMlMjB0cmFkaXRpb24u&ntb=1

[30] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=061c80576c794f0332c0647b13419e6109cf81653786d1c403c7d1ec81c0d788JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=acceptance+of+adam%e2%80%99s+(as)+repentance+kjv+bible&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iZWNvbWluZ2NocmlzdGlhbnMuY29tLzIwMTgvMDgvMTIvZGlkLWFkYW0tYW5kLWV2ZS1yZXBlbnQtb2YtdGhlaXItc2luLw&ntb=1

[31] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d14ef42cfd4e55cd3063743b1b427dc1dfb370e72388ed563b644e9eff9c9a45JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Noah%e2%80%99s+(AS)+Ark+Resting+on+Mount+Judi+dench&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaXNsYW1pY2xhbmRtYXJrcy5jb20vdHVya2V5L3Jlc3RpbmctcGxhY2Utb2YtdGhlLWFyay1vZi1udWgtYXMntb=1

[32] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ba73fd78e1dbd43cea0b93cec3abae5b09c1bdb51cc280b111b564a511c0443bJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Passage+of+Moses+(AS)+and+the+Israelites+Through+the+Red+Sea+liveaboard&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibGVnYXRld2F5LmNvbS9wYXNzYWdlLz9zZWFyY2g9RXhvZHVzJTIwMTQmdmVyc2lvbj1OS0pW&ntb=1

[33] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=9103669a4f4102ee880a29f0389e11c62b3c8ca121edc72b4273b14941cb120eJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Jonah+(AS)+Emerged+from+the+Fish%e2%80%99s+Belly+button&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibGVnYXRld2F5LmNvbS9wYXNzYWdlLz9zZWFyY2g9Sm9uYWglMjAxJTNBMTctMiUzQTEwJTJDTWF0dGhldyUyMDEyJTNBMzktNDAmdmVyc2lvbj1FU1Y&ntb=1

[34] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=78aaeb05f31874ed2aff0edfaeb6fdf485e4ee4ff66995bf2645d7cc42576dbeJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=job+(as)+was+healed+from+his+afflictions+of+sores+on+face&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iaWJsZWh1Yi5jb20vcS9pc19qb2Inc19pbGxuZXNzX3NjaWVudGlmaWNhbGx5X3BsYXVzaWJsZS5odG0&ntb=1

[35] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ac3fd32b943de1b8007733f939aef7a172798e81a713798b2817031c48e5d499JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Mentioned+in+Tafsir+al-Qurtubi+(Vol.+8%2c+p.+197)+and+Tafsir+Ibn+Kathir+(under+Surah+Al-Baqarah+2%3a37).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cua2FsYW11bGxhaC5jb20vdGFmc2lyLXF1cnR1YmkuaHRtbA&ntb=1

[36] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4142e9cb10c81361ba3ecfc1051935aaecec677006692c1a4ba6618f5c2645b0JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=noah%e2%80%99s+(as)+ark+resting+on+mount+judi+dench&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvTW91bnRfSnVkaQ&ntb=1

[37] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=45b22fb6b1ca3f77516a2a62f496c6185d21fd7fe1cfe4eb68630f414c18cfe9JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22And+it+was+said%2c+%e2%80%98O+earth%2c+swallow+your+water%2c+and+O+sky%2c+withhold+%5byour+rain%5d.%e2%80%99+And+the+water+subsided%2c+and+the+matter+was+accomplished%2c+and+the+ship+came+to+rest+on+the+%5bmountain+of%5d+Judi…%22+(Quran+11%3a44)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9wcmV2aW91cy5xdXJhbi5jb20vMTozP3N0b3JlPWZhbHNlJnRyYW5zbGF0aW9ucz0xNDA&ntb=1

[38] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ef5eabbef0828abb59071a4af285437edc50c80b1aee04e644c51a774424c5cbJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Had+he+not+been+of+those+who+exalt+Allah%2c+he+would+have+remained+inside+its+belly+until+the+Day+of+Resurrection.%22+(Quran+37%3a143-144)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90aGVtdXNsaW12aWJlLmNvbS9mYWl0aC1pc2xhbS81LWxlc3NvbnMtZnJvbS10aGUtcXVyYW4tb24tdGhlLXN0b3J5LW9mLXByb3BoZXQteXVudXMjOn46dGV4dD0lRTIlODAlOUNBbmQlMjBoYWQlMjBoZSUyMG5vdCUyMGJlZW4lMjBvZiUyMHRob3NlJTIwd2hvLHdoZXJlJTIwaGUlMjB3YXMlMjB1bnRpbCUyMHRoZSUyMERheSUyMG9mJTIwSnVkZ2VtZW50Lg&ntb=1

[39] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c738f837c30331462096cb57ab47cbc7b8f13ad14b920f84cd924edd1daf52e3JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ibn+Kathir+mentions+in+his+Stories+of+the+Prophets+that+Yunus+was+freed+on+Ashura.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hcmNoaXZlLm9yZy9kZXRhaWxzL3N0b3JpZXMtb2YtdGhlLXByb3BoZXRzLWJ5LWlibi1rYXRoaXItZW5nbGlzaC1wZGY&ntb=1

[40] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=d15c32935e31c55d2526779a3fc61333c55feb5bfdd07cef222708febdb4c185JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22And+%5bmention%5d+Job%2c+when+he+called+to+his+Lord%2c+%e2%80%98Indeed%2c+adversity+has+touched+me%2c+and+You+are+the+Most+Merciful+of+the+merciful.%e2%80%99+So+We+responded+to+him+and+removed+what+afflicted+him…%22+(Quran+21%3a83-84)20&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9teWlzbGFtLm9yZy9wcm9waGV0LWF5eXViLw&ntb=1

[41] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=3d433ddc38409680d2ca702d24124e63d7de7b0f2bd5c5bf68a46678f22962c1JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22Go+with+this+shirt+of+mine+and+cast+it+over+the+face+of+my+father%3b+he+will+become+seeing.+And+bring+me+your+family%2c+all+together.%22+(Quran+12%3a93)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9wcmV2aW91cy5xdXJhbi5jb20vMTI6Mj9zdG9yZT1mYWxzZSZ0cmFuc2xhdGlvbnM9MTcxLDQ0LDg4LDE5LDg0LDE2NywyMDcsOTUsMjA2LDg1&ntb=1

[42] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7499203d34c45033e5861d5767c287999df1f57477d1bf2aa9a61df9ff8a8014JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Al-Tha%e2%80%99labi)+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQWJ1X0lzaGFxX2FsLVRoYSUyN2xhYmk&ntb=1

[43] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=1d3cda3a29592f047202e5000cf066f9446aae91657fd39d049a4e3a6a355d23JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=o%09Some+scholars+(like+Al-Tha%e2%80%99labi)+mention+this+reunion+of+joseph+occurred+on+Ashura&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWNhZGVtaWEuZWR1LzExNjU1MjAwL1RoZV9Gb3JtYXRpb25fb2ZfdGhlX0NsYXNzaWNhbF9UYWZzaXJfVHJhZGl0aW9uX1RoZV9RdXJhbl9Db21tZW50YXJ5X29mX2FsX1RoYWxhYmlfZF80MjdfMTAzNV8&ntb=1

[44] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=077aaa2071a3dd02c63531f023e81974d6f95328519be73a0b136034d71d0b64JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=An+exegete+is+a+person+who+interprets+and+explains+religious+texts%2c+especially+sacred+scriptures+like+the+Qur%e2%80%99an+or+the+Bible.+The+term+comes+from+the+Greek+word+ex%c4%93g%c4%93t%c4%93s+(%e1%bc%90%ce%be%ce%b7%ce%b3%ce%b7%cf%84%ce%ae%cf%82)%2c+meaning+interpreter+or+expounder.+In+the+Islamic+context%2c+an+exegete+is+known+as+a+Mufassir+(%d9%85%d9%81%d8%b3%d8%b1).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kZXNpbHVzaW9uLmNvbS9lbi9kZWZpbmUtZXhlZ2V0ZS8jOn46dGV4dD1BdCUyMGl0cyUyMGNvcmUlMkMlMjBhbiUyMGV4ZWdldGUlMjBpcyUyMGElMjBzY2hvbGFyLHRoZSUyMEdyZWVrJTIwd29yZCUyMCVDMiVBQmV4JUM0JTkzZyVDNCU5M3NpcyUyQyVDMiVCQiUyMG1lYW5pbmclMjAlQzIlQUJ0byUyMGxlYWQlMjBvdXQuJUMyJUJC&ntb=1

[45] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=61f0b44d3d48b797fed01c94f4d710ea1b148c10d4f4fb3e3edeb35138a71e7eJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=jesus+ascending+to+heaven&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibGVnYXRld2F5LmNvbS9wYXNzYWdlLz9zZWFyY2g9YWN0cyUyMDE6OS0xMSZ2ZXJzaW9uPU5LSlY&ntb=1

[46] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=72e253a18100e0e64c1ef3852d01e80b636d19b36d9c84735b12df0de3f3ea18JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22But+Allah+raised+him+to+Himself…%22+(Quran+4%3a158)af&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zdXJhaHF1cmFuLm5ldC9lbmdsaXNoLWF5YS0xNTgtc29yYS00Lmh0bWw&ntb=1

[47] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=dcf7efeeed9507b1244872e92d889b5546b03d8586dec0942135754a14e62103JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Al-Suyuti)+suggest+his+ascension+was+on+Ashura%2c+though+other+dates+are+also+mentioned.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQWwtU3V5dXRp&ntb=1

[48] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a0f07ae2b221c943347651b1e6a091b2f155e457b6ff9bd87eb5e7aff2da1959JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=david%e2%80%99s+(as)+repentance+accepted&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iaWJsZWh1Yi5jb20vdG9waWNhbC9kL2RhdmlkJ3NfcmVhbGl6YXRpb25fYW5kX3JlcGVudGFuY2UuaHRt&ntb=1

[49] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=66b329e5bdc7569d5ab08b721a1abfce36c872399b9e1e210e11f6df6f79bc36JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Solomon+(AS)+Granted+His+Kingdom&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2hhYmFkLm9yZy9saWJyYXJ5L2FydGljbGVfY2RvL2FpZC80NjM5ODMvamV3aXNoL1RoZS1TdG9yeS1vZi1Tb2xvbW9uLWluLXRoZS1CaWJsZS5odG0&ntb=1

[50] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=9097830b2b4a01c297f4942f936b0e9e6d34ac58aab1658349fcd7ed164c7c84JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22He+said%2c+%e2%80%98My+Lord%2c+forgive+me+and+grant+me+a+kingdom+such+as+will+not+belong+to+anyone+after+me…%e2%80%99%22+(Quran+38%3a35)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zdXJhaHF1cmFuLmNvbS9lbmdsaXNoLWF5YS0zNS1zb3JhLTM4Lmh0bWw&ntb=1

[51] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=116d8a25496ccf385ced0cdc2ce5f52b01799e6d85cfd62f77cbaa3901c92a5bJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Abraham+(AS)+Saved+from+Nimrod%e2%80%99s+Fire&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudGhldG9yYWguY29tL2FydGljbGUvd2h5LXRoZS1taWRyYXNoLWhhcy1hYnJhaGFtLXRocm93bi1pbnRvLW5pbXJvZHMtZnVybmFjZQ&ntb=1

[52] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e9978d9a5594cfa344fae0bc4bb4948b3725798a6afc89df7b196a7e7718e728JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Al-Tabari+and+Al-Qurtubi+mention+this+miracle+occurred+on+Ashura&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90dWxheWhhaC53b3JkcHJlc3MuY29tL3RhZnNpci1hbC10YWJhcmktdHJhbnNsYXRpb24taW5kZXgv&ntb=1

[53] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=cdeff4f92d789b9bcdc24f1eddb2c168485d4fc323708497b5af0eac0e2c870cJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)+Fasted+on+Ashura&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hYm91dGlzbGFtLm5ldC9yZWFkaW5nLWlzbGFtL2xpdmluZy1pc2xhbS93aHktZGlkLXRoZS1wcm9waGV0LWZhc3Qtb24tdGhlLWRheS1vZi1hc2h1cmEvIzp-OnRleHQ9RmFzdGluZyUyMG9uJTIwTXVoYXJyYW0lMjAxMCUyQyUyMGtub3duJTIwYXMlMjB0aGUlMjBEYXksZGF5LiUyMFRoZXklMjBzYWlkJTNBJTIwJUUyJTgwJTlDVGhpcyUyMGlzJTIwYSUyMGJsZXNzZWQlMjBkYXkuJUUyJTgwJTlE&ntb=1

[54] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=50f3ab2e5c18b52c7e3c1c80d9a8d0dc49a2f15b52544294b4ab0b58c738aa1aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22The+Prophet+(PBUH)+observed+the+fast+on+Ashura+and+ordered+(Muslims)+to+fast+(on+that+day).%22+(Sahih+Bukhari+2004)stewart&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iaWxsaW5nLmJhcmVmb290c3VyZnRyYXZlbC5jb20vZGF0YS9zY2hvbGFyc2hpcC9mZXRjaC5waHAvVGhlJTIwR3JpZCUyMEJvb2slMjBTZXJpZXMucGRm&ntb=1

[55] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=26c083dae0836bc348db8a0da685ef83f05feb5eb2f75a849507d7a82ad90cf5JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Tarikh+al-Tabari+(Vol.+19%2c+p.+166)+and+Al-Bidayah+wa+al-Nihayah+(Ibn+Kathir)+document+his+martyrdom+on+10th+Muharram.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hcmNoaXZlLm9yZy9kZXRhaWxzL2hpc3Rvcnktb2YtdGFiYXJpLXZvbHVtZS0xOQ&ntb=1

[56] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=71bac65de0d1eaa48adc0de53c4c9b7c1e0378824b0f581a00a49439bb1edb26JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Isra%e2%80%99iliyyat+(Jewish%2fChristian+sources+adopted+in+some+Tafsirs)+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvSXNyYSVDQSVCQ2lsaXl5YXQ&ntb=1

[57] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5d2d5caa06323e1262dd5ddd72426331c0acc9c72bc43bba85c6901c0b718a73JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Brutal+End+of+Imam+Husayn%2c+the+grandson+of+Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)++at+Karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9pc2xhbWljaW5mb2NlbnRlci5jb20vdGhlLWJhdHRsZS1vZi1rYXJiYWxhLw&ntb=1

[58] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=900d3f352f4a6337bd40529712c278c1ec212e7352a68ef002961288a66d676cJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Brutal+End+of+Imam+Husayn%2c+the+grandson+of+Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)++at+Karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cucXVyYW4tby1zdW5uYXQuY29tL3RoZS1iYXR0bGUtb2Yta2FyYmFsYS1ob3ctdGhlLXByb3BoZXQtcGJ1aC13YXJuZWQtYWJvdXQtaHVzc2FpbnMtbWFydHlyZG9tLw&ntb=1

[59] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=a76d290d7d456d1eaf6b6ad315167313819e00166285247140cc277847d0bdb4JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&u=a1L3ZpZGVvcy9zZWFyY2g_cT1UaGUrQnJ1dGFsK0VuZCtvZitJbWFtK0h1c2F5biUyYyt0aGUrZ3JhbmRzb24rb2YrUHJvcGhldCtNdWhhbW1hZCsoUEJVSCkrK2F0K0thcmJhbGEmcXB2dD1UaGUrQnJ1dGFsK0VuZCtvZitJbWFtK0h1c2F5biUyYyt0aGUrZ3JhbmRzb24rb2YrUHJvcGhldCtNdWhhbW1hZCsoUEJVSCkrK2F0K0thcmJhbGEmRk9STT1WRFJF&ntb=1

[60] https://marefatmagazine.wordpress.com/2015/05/18/prophecy-of-the-martyrdom-of-imam-hussain-as-in-the-prominent-sunni-book/#:~:text=AHLEBAYT%2C%20IMAMATE-,Prophecy%20of%20the%20martyrdom%20of%20Imam%20Hussain%20(as)%20in%20a%20prominent%20Sunni%C2%A0book,-Date%3A%20May

[61] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=009e48e05b6bd56eab4ba05b30e5286cee7d6e554bf0d0bca3060292d97f5b61JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Zuljanah+karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvWnVsamFuYWg&ntb=1

[62] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4b4f8714efddf93b6d39951516f42fac107f476e0430453e2f14adcbebf77383JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=sayeda+zainab+shrine&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9uYWJhdGFlYS5uZXQvZXhwbG9yZS9jaXRpZXNfYW5k3NpdGVzL3NheXlpZGEtemF5bmFiLXNocmluZS8&ntb=1

[63] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7c78a5c6df577f7c74d041bd67a042fb5c4e90a35a340e78ca35fceb19b47f5dJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&u=a1L3ZpZGVvcy9zZWFyY2g_cT1UaWxsYS1lLVphaW5hYml5YSkuJnFwdnQ9VGlsbGEtZS1aYWluYWJpeWEpLismRk9STT1WRFJF&ntb=1

[64] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=ace121f6005ef7ace710d4b53b0313e871e9a790e0b2f0f0a45175b954d23752JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Hayhaat+mina+Zilla%e2%80%99+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpc2hpYS5uZXQvdmlldy9IYXloYXRfbWlubmFfYWwtZGhpbGxh&ntb=1

[65] https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/ashura2025/

[66] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7ebcdf7104868bec74360e045e4be66d7e1a826febc2e06d0349e3037fb192bcJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=In+the+Hebrew+Bible+(2+Samuel+11-12)%2c+Prophet+David+(AS)+is+tested+when+he+commits+an+error+involving+Bathsheba+(Uriah%e2%80%99s+wife)+and+subsequently+repents.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibGVnYXRld2F5LmNvbS9wYXNzYWdlLz9zZWFyY2g9MiUyMFNhbXVlbCUyMDExLTEyJnZlcnNpb249TklW&ntb=1

[67] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7e679d5f4a718b8a2b0724160b4e9cb99087d9c6e9e35d558969fc26b8fdeb9aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=surah+36+verse+38+translation+in+english&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9teWlzbGFtLm9yZy9zdXJhaC15YXNlZW4vYXlhdC0zOC8&ntb=1

[68] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=2569dfb26e6c150bae75216d0c38894bc4c531b86b74b7329bc8d6d149844aedJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=No+mention+of+Bathsheba+or+sin+of+desire+%e2%80%93+The+Quran+focuses+on+a+judgment+error%2c+not+moral+failing.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly96YWluYWJzbG91bmdlLmJsb2dzcG90LmNvbS8yMDEwLzA0L2RvZXMtcXVyYW4tcmVmZXItdG8tc3Rvcnktb2YtZGF2aWQtYW5kLmh0bWw&ntb=1

[69] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=fd5f4a0d27dc4ce63bcac5b42bdbbb24dfd972ed48a06bd6913eda5256c258efJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=creation+of+heaven+and+earth&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ290cXVlc3Rpb25zLm9yZy9Hb2QtY3JlYXRlZC10aGUtaGVhdmVucy1hbmQtdGhlLWVhcnRoLmh0bWw&ntb=1

[70] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=2928379d63b47a3281964061457ca091d3a1600719e8449476f5de957a441ceaJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ahura+Mazda+in+Zoroastrianism+(Non-Abrahamic+but+Influential)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQWh1cmFfTWF6ZGE&ntb=1

[71] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4fc1e12a494efdd82b65abc23c96adf22b783577f7673aed2222266e5fb7f1bfJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22The+Lord+lift+up+His+countenance+upon+you+and+give+you+peace%22+(Numbers+6%3a26)11.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibGVnYXRld2F5LmNvbS9wYXNzYWdlLz9zZWFyY2g9TlVNQkVSUyUyMDY6MjQtMjYmdmVyc2lvbj1OSVY&ntb=1

[72] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=fbf0014161611b9a7578a5424dbc0e02c2fa7ed10d624944bd54cdad08c6fdc3JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%22My+peace+I+give+you%22+(John+14%3a27).&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iaWJsZWh1Yi5jb20vc3R1ZHkvam9obi8xNC0yNy5odG0jOn46dGV4dD1QZWFjZSUyMEklMjBsZWF2ZSUyMHdpdGglMjB5b3UlM0IlMjBNeSUyMHBlYWNlJTIwSSxpcyUyMHByZXBhcmluZyUyMEhpcyUyMGZvbGxvd2VycyUyMGZvciUyMEhpcyUyMGltbWluZW50JTIwZGVwYXJ0dXJlLg&ntb=1

[73] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=acd345daa355b060600ac8079b9088f0b80a2a2a31892dedd9af5409e1038022JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&u=a1L3ZpZGVvcy9zZWFyY2g_cT1Bc2h1cmErJTI2K0Nvc21pYytKdXN0aWNlJnFwdnQ9QXNodXJhKyUyNitDb3NtaWMrSnVzdGljZSZGT1JNPVZEUkU&ntb=1

[74] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=21d8b1508991a454a05dbe190fd9b1e9d7c0fd1171dd27a2b2a02a95d948e1c4JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Journey+to+Kufa&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kbC50d2VsZnRoLWltYW0uaXIvYm9vazAxLzExX3RoZV9qb3VybmV5X3RvX2t1ZmEucGRm&ntb=1

[75] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=080f311f72feffb89d8fc157021aeb1f7cffb4d0d7143df305d6d5b7b14d824aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=interception+and+siege+at+karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGJpZGF5YWhoaXN0b3J5LmNvbS90aGUtYmF0dGxlLW9mLWthcmJhbGEtYS10aW1lbGluZS1vZi10cnV0aC1hbmQtc2FjcmlmaWNlLw&ntb=1

[76] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e9de8658223a99512313c3d611ac3ff7edba925d38c977fe70a2bdf925c5ff51JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Why+Sunni+Muslims+Do+Not+Revere+man++in+the+Same+Way+as+Shias&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaXNsYW1pY2l0eS5vcmcvMTA1MDYyL3R3by1zaWRlcy1vbmUtdW1tYWgtZGVidW5raW5nLXRoZS1teXRocy1iZXR3ZWVuLXN1bm5pcy1hbmQtc2hpYXMv&ntb=1

[77] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5c3c03e05c7747f6f7b946a253b80bf315df41509590bea3706d44fe14f9b513JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09Abu+Bakr+(RA)+as+the+First+Caliph&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvQWJ1X0Jha3I&ntb=1

[78] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=11ccf97946b168833eebb876fcd1ad9ef2226900c0987c35a42abe708cf6e95bJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Civil+War+in+Islam+(First+Fitna)+and+the+Role+of+Bibi+Ayesha+(RA)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvRmlyc3RfRml0bmE&ntb=1

[79] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=73656950af00acdb480e9a095c3d894c6f39ef950a6f2991b7c228107ed1d4bbJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ayesha%e2%80%99s+Opposition+and+the+Battle+of+the+Camel+(656+CE)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly90aGVpc2xhbWljaW5mb3JtYXRpb24uY29tL3N0b3JpZXMvYmF0dGxlLW9mLWNhbWVsLyM6fjp0ZXh0PUZvdWdodCUyMGluJTIwNjU2JTIwQ0UlMjBuZWFyJTIwQmFzcmElMkMlMjBJcmFxJTJDJTIwaXQsUHJvcGhldCVFMiU4MCU5OXMlMjB3aXZlcyUyQyUyMGFsb25nJTIwd2l0aCUyMGNvbXBhbmlvbnMlMjBUYWxoYSUyMGFuZCUyMFp1YmF5ci4&ntb=1

[80] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=0faf0caab1743854b2ca2c2784ac78a3c0829f9d32901ab7e4eb3fc2f7860dd6JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+March+to+Basra+in+ancient+islamic+history&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWxpbS5vcmcvaGlzdG9yeS9raGFsaWZhLWFsaS9heWVzaGEtcy1tYXJjaC10by1iYXNyYS8&ntb=1

[81] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=eab8c67b715e0a7caf9a08d80a012e07b6ce01feffa149462e89c06d35d59b8bJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Talha+and+Zubayr+were+killed%2c+and+Ayesha%e2%80%99s+forces+were+defeated.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYWwtaXNsYW0ub3JnL3Jlc3RhdGVtZW50LWhpc3RvcnktaXNsYW0tYW5kLW11c2xpbXMtc2F5eWlkLWFsaS1hc2doYXItcmF6d3kvYmF0dGxlLWJhc3JhLWJhdHRsZS1jYW1lbA&ntb=1

[82] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4c7fe88c37fcc5427b6d8d08bc8b06559c512eddf68dfc6a24624f5bb9389071JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Ayesha+is+revered+as+%22Mother+of+the+Believers%22+and+a+major+hadith+narrator%2c+but+her+role+in+the+civil+war+is+seen+as+a+political+mistake&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9qYW1pYXQub3JnLnphL2F5ZXNoYS1yYWRoaXlhbGxhaHUtYW5oYS1tb3RoZXItb2YtdGhlLWJlbGlldmVycy8&ntb=1

[83] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=34b1ce6ca02808f8a86e7d90c848424dfe6a8d7754ef5e1f90e31c9e100fe9dcJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=biddat+in+islam&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubGVhcm5hYm91dGlzbGFtLmluLzIwMTUvMDgvd2hhdC1pcy1iaWRhdC1pbi1pc2xhbS1hbmQtd2hhdC1hcmUuaHRtbA&ntb=1

[84] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=42a98ac8b434e07c6ceb1e7209cc90b458ed8f74443844fc826f11e7545889d9JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+gold-domed+shrines+of+Husayn+and+Abbas+in+Karbala+are+seen+by+Salafis+as+%22shirk%22+(polytheism)+for+resembling+%22tomb+worship&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zYWxhZmljZW50cmUuY29tLzIwMjEvMTIvMDcvZXBpY2VudHJlLW9mLXRoZS1kZXN0cnVjdGl2ZS1zaW4tb2Ytc2hyaW5lLWdyYXZlLWFuZC10b21iLXdvcnNoaXAtaW4td2VzdC1hZnJpY2Ev&ntb=1

[85] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=cfa9156fb0112d7ff6395ec209a6678d50f41a9fb9d8344ca677ea626bccb611JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&u=a1L3ZpZGVvcy9zZWFyY2g_cT0lZTIlODAlYTIlMDlUaGUra2FyYmFsYStwaWxncmltYWdlK2Vjb25vbXkrKHdvcnRoK2JpbGxpb25zK2FubnVhbGx5KStpcyt2aWV3ZWQrYnkrc29tZStTdW5uaXMrYXMrYW4rSXJhbmlhbi1iYWNrZWQrJTIyU2hpYStleHBhbnNpb24lMjIrdG9vbC4mcXB2dD0lZTIlODAlYTIlMDlUaGUra2FyYmFsYStwaWxncmltYWdlK2Vjb25vbXkrKHdvcnRoK2JpbGxpb25zK2FubnVhbGx5KStpcyt2aWV3ZWQrYnkrc29tZStTdW5uaXMrYXMrYW4rSXJhbmlhbi1iYWNrZWQrJTIyU2hpYStleHBhbnNpb24lMjIrdG9vbC4mRk9STT1WRFJF&ntb=1

[86][86] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c434620fcb089a8af82fbdca47c8964c18401a030a605175dd0e5d6d5e131771JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09Ibn+Taymiyyah%3a+Though+critical%2c+he+did+not+declare+Shias+as+kuffar+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvSWJuX1RheW1peXlh&ntb=1

[87] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=4741881921bd81da7f4330b6443e57456a0a50067ea554c9cda90d2bdbc004e3JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Detailed+Analysis+of+Key+Fatwas+and+Historical+Incidents+on+Sunni-Shia+Divisions+Over+Ashura+and+Karbala&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvU3VubmlfZmF0d2FzX29uX1NoaWFz&ntb=1

[88] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=63a332c23bb7b825bd5e40d9bf4b3ec250ae4df1152f020f4a3180727f63530cJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=1.%09Modern+Salafi+Fatwas+(Saudi+Arabia%2c+Al-Azhar)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9hY2FkZW1pYy5vdXAuY29tL2VkaW5idXJnaC1zY2hvbGFyc2hpcC1vbmxpbmUvYm9vay8xOTE3Ni9jaGFwdGVyLzE3NzY0NjA2OA&ntb=1

[89] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=db5e72303d8d9ad844bab06cfbaf05d8317a58bfdf54d7e5e1cd50d29e59d997JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Saddam+Hussein%e2%80%99s+Suppression+of+Shia+Mourning+(1980s%e2%80%932003)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvMTk3OSVFMiU4MCU5MzE5ODBfU2hpYV91cHJpc2luZ19pbl9JcmFx&ntb=1

[90] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=e9a0ecddd27e6458f24ce7ddaaf185dc8947b086e0dbdb810f84c933286f587aJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=ISIS+Attacks+on+Shia+Pilgrims+(2014%e2%80%932017)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvUGVyc2VjdXRpb25fb2ZfU2hpYXNfYnlfdGhlX0lzbGFtaWNfU3RhdGU&ntb=1

[91] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=407ec92156048206225d04216ef95cd54c53a3a8104f1f8adbc71aef22852e98JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Did+Prophet+Muhammad+(PBUH)+predict+the+Shia+-Sunni+sectarianism+before+His+demise&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly95YXFlZW5pbnN0aXR1dGUub3JnL3JlYWQvcGFwZXIvdGhlLXByb3BoZWNpZXMtb2YtcHJvcGhldC1tdWhhbW1hZA&ntb=1

[92] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=c5c9f2ef6ac0037022a6e76bede3acce63eaacac97cc3170ca3c062d5442495fJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09Ghadir+Khumm%3a+Shias+cite+the+Prophet%e2%80%99s+declaration+at+Ghadir+Khumm+(%22Whoever+I+am+his+master%2c+Ali+is+his+master%22)+&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zaGlhc3R1ZGllcy5jb20vZW4vMTY2ODQvaGlzdG9yaWNhbC1zcGVlY2gtaG9seS1wcm9waGV0LXMtdy1naGFkaXIta2h1bS8&ntb=1

[93] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=420933339ef0c4d6e1f585a38500e9ed2c26f98a0160a4f9c88e1b3389c8e897JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=%e2%80%a2%09%3a+Hanbali+Sunni+(Wahhabi%2fSalafi+reform+movement)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvV2FoaGFiaXNt&ntb=1

[94] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=0b5026d8e8aab09ebf5300c35526fd1e155ea448fbfa0b4554330bcf945fef47JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=.+Iran%3a+Twelver+Shia+(Ja%27fari+Madhhab)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2FtYnJpZGdlLm9yZy9jb3JlL2pvdXJuYWxzL2lyYW5pYW4tc3R1ZGllcy9hcnRpY2xlL2Ficy9uYWRpci1zaGFoLWFuZC10aGUtamFmYXJpLW1hZGhoYWItcmVjb25zaWRlcmVkL0JEN0JERDYwNUNFQUExMjRGNkVGMDdEODZCOUREMURC&ntb=1

[95] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=cd4502560903a6ee86fe98c7dd6834bb13b4320c89c432fd482933e840c6c54cJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=South+Africa%3a+Mixed+Sunni+with+Shia-Influenced+Minorities&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kdWFpLm9yZy56YS9zaGklY2ElYmZpc20taW4tc291dGgtYWZyaWNhLWEtc3VubmktcGVyc3BlY3RpdmUv&ntb=1

[96] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=7620602db14d5a7dadd405f011226f06e67041995eefe5ff3f69553f417055a3JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Role+of+Third+Force+Activities+in+Widening+the+Shia-Sunni+Muslim+Rift&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9saW5rLnNwcmluZ2VyLmNvbS9jaGFwdGVyLzEwLjEwMDcvOTc4LTMtMDMwLTU2NzYxLTNfNw&ntb=1

[97] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=bd8c49741f02136afb295202ce6f3c5e5d19dc2a84281c64acc291df18f1a297JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=lessons+from+south+africa%e2%80%99s+sunni+shia+model+of+development&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9kdWFpLm9yZy56YS9zaGklY2ElYmZpc20taW4tc291dGgtYWZyaWNhLWEtc3VubmktcGVyc3BlY3RpdmUv&ntb=1

[98] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f7161acb38537aab813c3f0ebbaba2744092f917267c00efd78edd22be35ea43JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=The+Prophet+(PBUH)+unified+warring+tribes+under+Islam%e2%80%99s+banner.+Today%e2%80%99s+divisions+are+man-made%2c+not+divine+and+thus%2c+they+can+be+unmade.+The+work+of+the+author+in+the+province+of+KwaZulu-Natal%2c+in+South+Africa+proves+this+is+not+idealism%3b+it+is+a+practical%2c+humanistic+community+centred%2c+prophetic+activity.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9iYWhhaXRlYWNoaW5ncy5vcmcvaG93LWRpZC1tdWhhbW1hZC11bml0ZS10aGUtd2FycmluZy10cmliZXMtb2YtYXJhYmlhLw&ntb=1

[99] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=456150840b151511b7131d59f0f849e36c154398266be0ec469970d59b7fa44dJmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Quranic+Verse%3a+Surah+Al-Kafirun+(109%3a6)&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9zdXJhaHF1cmFuLmNvbS9lbmdsaXNoLWF5YS02LXNvcmEtMTA5Lmh0bWwjOn46dGV4dD0xMDklM0E2JTIwRm9yJTIweW91JTIwaXMlMjB5b3VyJTIwcmVsaWdpb24lMkMlMjBhbmQlMjBmb3IseW91JTIwYmUlMjB5b3VyJTIwV2F5JTJDJTIwYW5kJTIwdG8lMjBtZSUyMG1pbmUu&ntb=1

[100] https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=23ec4599c932cc70096b5aaad8c1de098034b64c42816ecc275fb89728885960JmltdHM9MTc1MjI3ODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=13da0a31-899c-6c03-09c7-1fd488bf6d11&psq=Early+Meccan+period%2c+when+the+Prophet+Muhammad+%ef%b7%ba+was+facing+intense+opposition+from+the+Quraysh.&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly9lbi53aWtpcGVkaWEub3JnL3dpa2kvRWFybHlfTXVzbGltJUUyJTgwJTkzTWVjY2FuX2NvbmZsaWN0&ntb=1

______________________________________________

Professor G. Hoosen M. Vawda (Bsc; MBChB; PhD.Wits) is a member of the TRANSCEND Network for Peace Development Environment.
Director: Glastonbury Medical Research Centre; Community Health and Indigent Programme Services; Body Donor Foundation SA.
Principal Investigator: Multinational Clinical Trials
Consultant: Medical and General Research Ethics; Internal Medicine and Clinical Psychiatry:UKZN, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine
Executive Member: Inter Religious Council KZN SA
Public Liaison: Medical Misadventures
Activism: Justice for All
Email: vawda@ukzn.ac.za

Tags: Islam, Religion

This article originally appeared on Transcend Media Service (TMS) on 14 Jul 2025.

Anticopyright: Editorials and articles originated on TMS may be freely reprinted, disseminated, translated and used as background material, provided an acknowledgement and link to the source, TMS: Blood in the Sand: How Ashura Transformed from Islamic History’s Greatest Tragedy to Peace Destroying, Sectarian Turmoil (Part 2), is included. Thank you.

If you enjoyed this article, please donate to TMS to join the growing list of TMS Supporters.

Share this article: email mastodon facebook 🔗 copy link

This work is licensed under a CC BY-NC 4.0 License.

There are no comments so far.