Al-Abbas ibn Ali (peace be upon him), famously known as Abu al-Fadl al-Abbas and Bab al-Hawaij (the Door of Needs), is one of the most revered figures in Islamic history. He is remembered for his unmatched loyalty, bravery, and sacrifice in the land of Karbala, standing as a timeless symbol of devotion to truth and selfless service to his brother, Imam Hussain (peace be upon him).
Birth and Noble Lineage
Al-Abbas was born on the 4th of Sha’ban, 26 AH, in Medina. He was the son of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), the Commander of the Faithful, and Lady Umm al-Baneen (peace be upon her), known for her piety and noble character.
From his father, Abbas inherited courage, wisdom, and spiritual insight, while his mother raised him upon love for the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt) and a deep sense of loyalty.
His Titles
Al-Abbas carries many noble titles that reflect his lofty qualities:
Qamar Bani Hashim (The Moon of the Hashemite clan), for his handsome features and shining character.Bab al-Hawaij (The Door of Needs), for his status as an intercessor and helper of the needy.Abu al-Fadl (Father of virtue).Saqqa’ al-Atashaa (The Water Carrier of the Thirsty), for his efforts to bring water to the children of Karbala.Loyalty in Karbala
The defining moment of Al-Abbas’s life was in Karbala during the tragedy of Ashura, 61 AH. Despite overwhelming thirst, hunger, and danger, Abbas stood as the standard-bearer of Imam Hussain’s army, defending the camp and the message of Islam with unshakable loyalty.
He refused to leave his brother’s side, and when permitted to fight, his only request was to fetch water for the children, especially for little Sakina (peace be upon her).
When Abbas reached the river Euphrates, despite extreme thirst, he did not drink, saying:
“How can I drink while my brother Hussain and the children are thirsty?”
On his way back to the camp, Abbas was ambushed. His arms were cut, but he continued forward, holding the water pouch with his teeth until he was struck on the head and fell to the ground as a martyr of loyalty.
Character and Virtues
Al-Abbas (a.s.) is remembered for:
Complete obedience to divine leadership, serving Imam Hussain (a.s.) without hesitation.Bravery, unmatched even among the bravest warriors.Kindness and care for the weak, especially the women and children of Ahl al-Bayt.Modesty, never seeking personal glory, living only to serve the truth.Imam Hussain described him as:
“My backbone has been broken after you, O Abbas.”
His Shrine and Eternal Love
Al-Abbas is buried in Karbala, beside the shrine of Imam Hussain (a.s.). His magnificent shrine is visited by millions annually, and many around the world call upon him as Bab al-Hawaij, believing in his powerful intercession with God.
His flag remains a symbol of steadfastness, and his name is invoked whenever loyalty, courage, and sacrifice are praised.
Al-Abbas ibn Ali (peace be upon him) is more than a historical figure, he is a living example of how a servant of God should be: loyal without conditions, courageous without fear, and selfless without limits.
His story teaches humanity that true nobility lies in standing by truth and justice, even when faced with impossible odds.
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