THE battle of Karbala truly left an everlasting impact on human history and gave new meanings to words like ‘sacrifice’, ‘resistance’, ‘courage’, ‘bravery’, ‘faith’ and ‘faithfulness’. Karbala teaches us that we should uphold the values of justice, equality and human dignity even when we happen to be facing the most tyrannical of all tyrants.

The glorious path chosen by Imam Hussain, and followed by the likes of flag-bearer Abbas, demands that we refuse to bow our heads in front of unjust and evil rulers.

The tragedy that unfolded in Karbala later united communities and acted as a catalyst for social and political change. Karbala remains valid even today, as it encouraged us to do our best to stop the genocide in Palestine.

We must do everything to put an end to the ethnic cleansing that is going on across Gaza. And, we must do everything regardless of the possible consequences. This, in short, is what Karbala teaches us.

Chaudhary Aamir Sohail
Sargodha

Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2025