Ashura Conveys Universal Human Values: Lebanese Priest
“Although Imam Hussein's (AS) uprising was a tragic event, it conveys universal human values such as resisting oppression and sacrificing for justice and honor, which resonate with people regardless of their religion or beliefs,” Father Abdo Abou Kassam told IQNA.
Ashura is a significant religious occasion for Shias, symbolizing resistance against oppression and corruption, he added.
The third Shia Imam (AS) and a small group of his followers and family members were martyred by the tyrant of his time - Yazid Bin Muawiya, in the battle of Karbala on Ashura in the year 680 AD.
Shias regard Imam Hussein (AS) as a courageous hero who stood for truth and justice against the tyrant of his time, said Kassam, who is also head of the Catholic Media Center in Lebanon.
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To truly engage with the event of Ashura, it's important to understand its background, highlighted the priest.
“Ashura was the Imam Hussein's (AS) efforts to reform his ancestor's [Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)] nation,” he said.
Referring to Christians who fought alongside Imam Hussein (AS) in Karbala, including John bin Huwai, Kassam said, “Therefore, Christians should engage with this event, and all Lebanese—whether Christians, Shia Muslims, Druze, or followers of any religion—must work together to combat corruption and oppression to build a healthy society.”
Shia Muslims, and others in different parts of the world, hold ceremonies every year in Muharram to mourn the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions.
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