Sacred Text CompassREAD · SEARCH · EXPLORE
← Places & history

Islam · Communities & events

Husayn is killed at Karbala

680 CE

Husayn, a grandson of Muhammad, and his companions were killed by forces supporting the Umayyad ruler Yazid. His refusal to submit and his death became central to Shi‘i remembrance. Annual Ashura commemorations connect this historical conflict with reflection on suffering, justice, and loyalty.

Why it matters

Karbala explains an enduring focus of Shi‘i religious life and shows how the memory of a political confrontation can shape devotion across centuries.

About the date

The battle is dated to Muharram 61 AH, conventionally October 680.

Karbala

City associated with the battle and later commemorative shrine; city-level orientation.

city orientation

See on the map →

Explore the texts

Sources