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The 14 Masoomen

Explore the lives, teachings, and legacies of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam

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Imam Hussein ibn Ali (AS)

Sayyid al-Shuhada (Master of Martyrs)

Birth
626 CE (Medina)
Death/Martyrdom
680 CE (Karbala)
Burial Place
Imam Hussein Shrine, Karbala, Iraq

Biography

Imam Hussein was the second son of Imam Ali and Lady Fatima, and the third Imam. His stand against tyranny and oppression at Karbala represents one of the most significant events in Islamic history. Refusing to pledge allegiance to the unjust ruler Yazid, Imam Hussein, along with his family and companions, was martyred in the Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura). His sacrifice symbolizes the eternal struggle between truth and falsehood, justice and oppression. The commemoration of his martyrdom continues to inspire millions worldwide to stand against injustice and tyranny.

Imam Hussein ibn Ali (AS) Shrine

Shrine of Imam Hussein ibn Ali (AS)

The Imam Hussein Shrine in Karbala, Iraq is one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. The shrine marks the burial place of Imam Hussein and contains his tomb. The site has been expanded and renovated numerous times throughout history and is characterized by its golden dome and ornate architecture.

Imam Hussein Shrine, Karbala, Iraq
Death with dignity is better than a life of humiliation.
— Imam Hussein ibn Ali (AS)

Teachings & Legacy

Imam Hussein's stand at Karbala against tyranny and injustice has become a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. His martyrdom is commemorated annually during Ashura and has inspired movements for justice and freedom throughout history.

About the 14 Masoomen

Understanding the significance of the fourteen infallibles in Shia Islam

Who are the 14 Masoomen?

In Shia Islam, the 14 Infallibles (Arabic: Chahārdah Maʿsūmīn) are the Prophet Muhammad, his daughter Fatima al-Zahra, and the Twelve Imams. They are considered to be divinely appointed guides who are free from sin and error.

These revered figures are central to Shia theology and spirituality, representing the unbroken chain of divine guidance and leadership after the Prophet Muhammad.

The concept of infallibility (ismah) in Shia Islam means that these 14 individuals are believed to be protected by God from committing sins or errors in matters of religious guidance.

Imam Ali Shrine
Imam Hussein Shrine
Imam Ridha Shrine

Further Resources

Explore these classical texts to deepen your understanding of the 14 Masoomen

Nahj al-Balagha

A collection of sermons, letters, and sayings attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, compiled by al-Sharif al-Radi in the 10th century CE.

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Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

A collection of supplications attributed to Imam Ali ibn Hussein (Zayn al-Abidin), known as "The Psalms of Islam."

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Al-Kafi

One of the most important Shia hadith collections, compiled by Muhammad ibn Ya'qub al-Kulayni in the 10th century CE.

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