Saeed ibn Abdullah al-Hanafi (r.a.)
The Human Shield
A prominent Shia of Kufa who delivered the letters of Kufans to Imam Husayn and sacrificed his life protecting the Imam during Ashura prayers.
- Born
- Kufa
- Died
- 61 AH (680 AD), Karbala
- Cause of death
- Martyred in the Battle of Karbala while protecting Imam Husayn during prayers
Messenger and Supporter
Saeed ibn Abdullah al-Hanafi was a respected figure among the Shia of Kufa. He played a crucial role as an emissary, carrying numerous letters of support from the people of Kufa to Imam Husayn in Mecca, pledging their loyalty. When the situation in Kufa turned against Muslim ibn Aqeel, Saeed remained steadfast in his devotion to the Imam and ultimately joined him in Karbala.
The Human Shield at Karbala
On the Day of Ashura, when it was time for the Zuhr prayers, Imam Husayn and his companions stood to pray amidst the raging battle. The enemy forces showed no respect for the prayers and launched a barrage of arrows. Saeed ibn Abdullah stepped forward, forming a human shield in front of Imam Husayn. He took arrow after arrow to his chest, face, and arms, ensuring the Imam could complete his prayer.
Martyrdom
After the prayers concluded, Saeed fell to the ground, mortally wounded. His final words to the Imam were an inquiry if he had fulfilled his duty, to which Imam Husayn replied, "Yes, you are in Paradise before me." Read more about his sacrifice at Al-Islam.org.