The Image of Al-Hussein bin Ali bin Abi Talib according to Ibn Kathir in his book “Al-Bidāyah wa-al-nihāyah”

Abstract

This study entitled (The Portrayal of Hussein bin Ali bin Abi Talib according to Ibn Kathir in his book “al-Bidāyah wa-al-nihāyah”) focuses on the depiction of Hussein bin Ali bin Abi Talib as portrayed by Ibn Kathir, and the influence of his political inclinations and sectarian biases on said portrayal. Additionally, it explores the impact of the cultural milieu of his era on the various facets of the aforementioned depiction.

The article provides an analysis of the prominent justifications presented in the portrayal of Hussein bin Ali in a painted image. It argues that this image symbolizes the condemnation of Hussein's revolution against Umayyad rule, extending this condemnation to all those who supported him during that time. Furthermore, the article suggests that the image, as depicted by Ibn Kathir, grants artificial legitimacy to the Umayyad rule and any subsequent ruling power that deviates from the principles upheld by Hussein bin Ali. It also highlights the perceived threat posed by the Husseini revolution and its associated slogans. The research has arrived at a significant finding, namely that Ibn Kathir's portrayal of Hussein has distorted the historical reality due to his susceptibility to political biases and sectarian inclinations. Consequently, this display of audacious hypocrisy has elevated him to a prominent position as a preacher favoured by the rulers of that era, exemplifying his exceptional skills in this regard.