Story No. 324 – Imam Zeynel Abidin (as) and Jihad with character (Akhlaq)

As a reaction people of Madina revolted against Yazid, after hearing the horrifying stories of Karbala from Imam Zeynel Abidin (as) in the year 64 AH. The people of Medina removed Yezid’s governor from his post of governorship in Medina, Fearing for their lives, the Bani Umayyah started running away from Medina. Marwan bin Hakam had a large family of women and children and could not run away for his life unless he could find someone who would agree to house his women and children. Marwan bin Hakam approached several people including Abdullah ibn Umar bin Khattab but all refused to help him. Finally Marwan bin Hakam turned to Imam Zeynel Abidin (as) for help.

Marwan bin Hakam was enemy number one of the Holy Prophet (saw) and his family. As a matter of fact, the Holy Prophet (saw) had ordered Marwan and his father Hakam bin Aas to leave Medina as unwanted persons. It is the same Marwan who had fought against Imam Ali (as) in the battle of the Camel (Jung-e-Jamal). Marwan also was one of those who prevented Imam Al-Hassan (as) to be buried next to his grandfather’s grave. Again, it was Marwan who had told Walid, the Governor of Medina in 60 AH to force “Bayah” from Imam Al-Hussein (as) in the court or to cut-off his head if he refused.

Despite all this, Imam Zeynel Abidin (as) agreed to help Marwan bin Hakam without any hesitation. Marwan’s family stayed with the Imam in Imam’s house for as long as they wished. Imam Zeynel Abidin (as) then arranged for them to go to where Marwan was. In fact, Imam’s house was open for anyone who came seeking for protection at this time.