Imam Hassan A Beacon of Guidance, A Pioneer in Reform
This is according to Iraqi author Walid al-Hilli who, in an article for IQNA, discussed some virtues of the second Imam (AS) on his birth anniversary, which fell on the 15th of Ramadan (March 16, 2025). Following are excerpts from the article:
1. The Master of the Youths of Paradise:
Imam Hassan (AS), the eldest son of Amir al-Mu’minin, Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS) and Fatimah al-Zahra (SA), the master of the women of the world, was raised in the embrace of his grandfather, the Messenger of God, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Prophet (PBUH) said about him and his brother, Imam Hussein (AS): “Hassan and Hussein are the masters of the youths of Paradise.”
Imam Hassan (AS) embodied the highest concepts of bravery, chivalry, and generosity, and was an example of wise leadership when he assumed the Imamate after his father, Imam Ali (AS), becoming the second Imam.
2. The Kareem (Generous) of Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS):
Imam Hassan (AS) is known for his generosity and kindness, earning him the title “The Kareem of Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS)” because he never sent a beggar away empty-handed and gave from his wealth without limits. His generosity reflected his Zuhd in this world and his commitment to the advancement of the community and the spread of goodness among the people.
3. Awareness, Education, and Culture:
Imam Hassan (AS) was committed to education, awareness, and culture based on noble principles and values, striving to instill these concepts in the conscience of the Islamic community so that they would not fall prey to the deception, cunning, and misguidance of their enemies.
Imam Hassan (AS) held gatherings and sessions to educate the people on both religious and worldly matters, encouraging them to adhere to the values of Islamic ethics.
4. A Wise Leader and Statesman:
Two days after the martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS), on the 23rd of Ramadan in the year 40 AH, Muslims gathered to pledge allegiance to Imam Hassan (AS) as the fifth caliph of the Muslims. Imam Hassan (AS) was a wise leader and an experienced statesman who managed to continue the affairs of the state based on a Quranic approach during a challenging period in Islamic history for seven months.
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5. Approach to Reform and Change:
Imam Hassan (AS) believed that reform could only be achieved by confronting tyrants and creating an informed community based on faith and reason.
6. Timeless Lessons from Imam Hassan (AS) for the Community:
The life of Imam Hassan (AS) serves as a school of wisdom, patience, and self-sacrifice.
7. Sacrifice for the Greater Good of Islam:
Imam Hassan (AS) understood that the community was going through a critical phase of turmoil and separatism, while Muawiya was exploiting wealth and power to deceive the people and weaken the Islamic front. Despite possessing all the qualities needed for military and political leadership, the Imam (AS) chose the path of peace and self-sacrifice.
8. Victory through Awareness and Patience: A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations:
Imam Hassan (AS) taught us that reform is not achieved solely through confrontation and struggle but it can be achieved through the creation of an informed, patient, and self-sacrificing community in line with the high principles of Islam is the greatest victory.
On the anniversary of his blessed birth, we remember his fragrant life and draw lessons from his wisdom and patience, as he exemplifies wise leadership and genuine reform.
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