The Tragedy Of Karbala – Dr. Israr Ahmad

About The Tragedy of Karbala by Dr. Israr Ahmad

The Tragedy of Karbala is an English book by Dr. Israr Ahmad on the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, may Allah be pleased with him, at Karbala in the year 61 AH. It began as a lecture that Dr. Israr gave on the 8th of Muharram in Lahore, and it later appeared in print as a booklet. This edition is an English paperback from Adam Publishers.

The book looks at the events of Karbala against the political background that came before them. It is the author’s own reading of those events, written to help readers think about the questions of leadership, loyalty and sacrifice that the day raises.

What readers will find

• The story of Karbala and the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, the grandson of the Prophet ﷺ
• The political setting of the early Muslim community that led to the tragedy
• The author’s perspective on the causes and the lessons of the event
• A short, readable text in English

About the author

Dr. Israr Ahmad (1932 to 2010) was a Pakistani scholar and a former medical doctor who gave his life to the study and teaching of the Qur’an. He founded Markazi Anjuman Khuddam-ul-Qur’an in 1972 and Tanzeem-e-Islami in 1975, and lectured widely in Urdu and English.

A note for readers

The events of Karbala are remembered with deep love and sorrow by Muslims, and scholars have long held different views on some of the questions surrounding them. This book presents one author’s perspective, and readers are encouraged to read it with an open mind and to study other trusted works alongside it.

Who should read this book

The Tragedy of Karbala suits readers of Islamic history, students who want a short introduction, and anyone who wishes to understand the events of Muharram better. Because it is short and in English, it is easy to read in one or two sittings, and it is helpful for those who attend lectures during Muharram.

How to read it well

Read it slowly and with respect for Imam Husayn and the family of the Prophet ﷺ. Make a note of the questions it raises, and then read more about the period from other reliable sources. Discussing the lessons with a teacher or a study circle often brings better understanding.

Why Muharram readers pick this book

Every year, as Muharram arrives, many Muslims look for a short, clear book on Karbala to read before the lectures and gatherings of the month. The Tragedy of Karbala is brief enough to finish in one evening, and it is written in plain English, so it is easy to follow for students and for readers who are new to the subject. It also helps readers who want a text they can discuss with friends or family after reading.

Reading with the right intention

The story of Karbala is a story of sacrifice and steadfastness, and it is best read with sincerity and respect. A thoughtful reader can ask what the events teach about standing for truth, about the responsibility of leaders and about the cost of division among Muslims. Making dua for the martyrs and sending salutations on the Prophet ﷺ and his family fits the spirit of reading.

Edition details

Author: Dr. Israr Ahmad. Publisher: Adam Publishers. Format: paperback. Language: English. Sold by Lafz Bookstore with delivery across India.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Tragedy of Karbala about? It is about the martyrdom of Imam Husayn at Karbala and the events around it, as seen by Dr. Israr Ahmad.

Is it in English? Yes, this is an English edition.

Is it a long book? No. It began as a single lecture and is a short, easy read.

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