Qasit ibn Zuhayr al-Taghlibi (r.a.)
Veteran of Siffin, Martyr of Karbala
A veteran companion of Imam Ali (a.s.) who, along with his brothers, joined Imam Husayn (a.s.) in Karbala.
- Born
- Unknown (Kufa)
- Died
- 10 Muharram 61 AH (Karbala)
- Cause of death
- Martyred in the first attack on Ashura
Lineage and Background
Qasit ibn Zuhayr al-Taghlibi belonged to the northern Arab tribe of Taghlib ibn Wael. He, along with his brothers Kurdus and Muqsit, was a loyal companion of Imam Ali (a.s.). He participated in the major battles of Jamal, Siffin, and Nahrawan under Imam Ali's command, and later served in the military forces of Imam Hasan (a.s.).
Role at Karbala
When the caravan of Imam Husayn (a.s.) reached Karbala, Qasit and his brothers slipped out of Kufa under the cover of night to join the Imam. Their arrival brought joy to the camp, as they were experienced and fearless warriors. On the day of Ashura, Qasit fought valiantly during the initial offensive launched by the Umayyad army and was martyred. He is specially greeted in the Ziyarat al-Shuhada: "Peace be upon Qasit and Kurdus, the sons of Zuhayr al-Taghlibi."
Citations
His biography and martyrdom are detailed in major Shia historical works. See Al-Islam.org: Martyrs of Karbala.