Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas
Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas, also known as Abbas ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib, is a prominent historical figure whose lineage can be traced back to Abdul Muttalib ibn Hashim, a descendant of Abdul Manaf, Qusai, and Kalab. His father was Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, and his mother was Fatimah bint Hazam al-Rabi’i al-Kalabi, commonly referred to as Umm Al-Banin. Abbas was born on a Tuesday in the 14th of Sha’ban, 26 AH, in Medina. He is renowned for his numerous virtuous qualities, steadfast faith, broad-mindedness, resilience, and deep understanding of the prophetic traditions and Islamic law. In this article, we will explore his life and significance.
Characteristics and Life of Al-Abbas
Al-Abbas was distinguished by his striking appearance, courage, and tall stature. He was known to ride a distinguished horse, with his feet nearly touching the ground. He married Lubabah bint Ubaidullah ibn Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib, with whom he had four sons: Al-Fadl, Ubaidullah, Al-Hasan, and Al-Qasim, as well as two daughters. He also had many grandchildren, some of whom became renowned scholars.
Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas closely accompanied his two brothers, the grandsons of the Prophet, as well as his father and the Imam Zainul Abidin, learning from them a wealth of religious knowledge and exemplary ethics, which significantly shaped his character. He was also present during numerous battles that his father participated in, witnessing pivotal events such as the assassination of Uthman ibn Affan, his father’s allegiance to the caliphate, and the battles of Siffin, Al-Jamal, and Al-Nahrawan. Notably, he was the standard-bearer for Al-Husayn at the Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram, where he charged into enemy ranks to break the siege, a testament to his bravery as the banner is traditionally held only by the noble and courageous.
Titles of Al-Abbas
- The Moon of Banu Hashim.
- The Gateway of Needs.
- The Flyer.
- The Martyr.
- The Water Bearer; for his efforts in bringing water to Al-Husayn’s camp in his first attempt.
- The Righteous Servant.
- The Standard Bearer.
Death of Al-Abbas
Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas was martyred during his second attempt to fetch water for the fighters at Karbala on Ashura. During his mission, he was ambushed by the enemy who knocked him off his horse, severed his hand, shot him in the eye with an arrow, and tore his water pouch. He ultimately succumbed to his injuries after being struck on the head with a pole.
Tomb of Al-Abbas
Al-Abbas ibn Ali is interred in a shrine topped with a golden dome in Karbala, adjacent to the shrine of Al-Husayn. Additionally, he has a grave in Nabi Sheet, a town in the Beqaa Valley of Lebanon.