Zuhayr ibn Qayn al-Bajali (r.a.)
Commander of the Right Wing
A prominent Kufan leader who transformed from an Uthmani sympathizer to the brave commander of Imam Husayn's right wing.
- Born
- Unknown, Kufa
- Died
- 10 Muharram 61 AH (680 CE), Karbala
- Cause of death
- Martyred in the Battle of Karbala
Background and Transformation
Zuhayr ibn Qayn was an influential tribal leader from Kufa. Initially, he held Uthmani inclinations and deliberately avoided Imam Husayn's caravan during his journey back from Hajj. However, at a waystation called Zarud, Imam Husayn (a.s.) sent an emissary to invite him. Encouraged by his devout wife, Dalham, Zuhayr met with the Imam. This brief meeting completely transformed him. He returned joyful, divorced his wife to spare her from the impending tragedy, and joined the Imam's camp, becoming one of his most loyal defenders.
Role at Karbala
Zuhayr's military expertise and unwavering devotion were critical at Karbala. Imam Husayn appointed him as the commander of the right wing of his small but fiercely loyal army on the Day of Ashura. He delivered a powerful sermon to the army of Yazid, urging them to recognize the grandson of the Prophet and warning them against shedding his blood, though his words fell on deaf ears.
Martyrdom
During the battle, Zuhayr fought with legendary bravery, defending the Imam while he prayed the noon prayer (Salat al-Khawf) alongside Sa'id ibn Abdullah. He repeatedly repelled enemy attacks, reciting epic poetry about his loyalty to Husayn and the Ahl al-Bayt. He was eventually surrounded and martyred by Kathir bin Abdullah al-Sha'bi and Muhajir bin Aws. Imam Husayn stood by his body, praying for God's mercy upon him and cursing his killers. (Source: Al-Islam.org)