Birth Anniversary of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (p) 1446 A.H.

February 1, 2025

Sunday, February 2nd, 2025, is the 3rd of Shaban which marks the birth anniversary of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (p).

The Meal That Freed the Slave

One day, as the golden sun began to set over the fields of Medina, Imam Hussain (p), known for his immense compassion and humility, was walking along a quiet path when he came across a remarkable scene. A young servant sat under the shade of a tree, visibly troubled. By his side, a stray dog wagged its tail eagerly, sniffing a piece of bread in the servant’s hand.

Curious, the Imam (p) approached gently. “What are you doing, young man?” he asked, his voice warm and kind.

The servant looked up, startled by the noble figure standing before him. “O son of the Messenger of God,” he said, “I was eating this bread when this dog came near me, looking hungry. I felt ashamed to eat while it was starving, so I shared my food with it.”

Imam Hussain (p) smiled, his face radiating approval. “Indeed, you have shown great compassion,” he said. “God loves those who are merciful to His creatures.”

The servant hesitated and then confessed with a heavy heart, “But I am only a slave, and I own nothing—not even the bread I just shared.”

Imam Hussain’s (p) expression softened with understanding. “Who owns you?” he asked.

“Master so-and-so,” the servant replied, lowering his gaze.

Without hesitation, Imam Hussain (p) made his way to the master’s home. After speaking to the man, he purchased the servant’s freedom right then and there.

Returning to the servant, Imam Hussain (p) placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. “You are free now,” he declared with a smile.

The young man’s eyes filled with tears of gratitude. “O son of the Messenger of God,” he stammered, “You have not only freed me but also honored me beyond what I deserve.”

Imam Hussain (p) responded, “Compassion should always be rewarded with freedom and dignity.”

The servant and the Imam (p) stood side by side as the grateful dog wagged its tail joyfully. In that simple yet profound moment, Imam Hussain (p) exemplified that mercy and generosity should extend to all beings—humans and animals alike.

[Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 43, pg. 354]

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