Hussain bin Ali (rta) was the son of the Messenger of Allah’s (sa) daughter Fatima (rtaf). Often, it is wrongfully assumed that Hussain (rta) and his elder brother Hasan (rta) were twins, which was not the case. Although they are almost always mentioned in the Hadeeths together, Hasan (rta) was about a year older than Hussain (rta).
Hussain (rta) and his eldest brother Hasan (rta) were very close – the love between them was stronger than between twins. They were inseparable: they ate together, played together, shared the same memories and went to the same places. From their earliest years, the Prophet (sa) would teach them that the younger should serve the elder, because love which is not founded upon respect is incomplete. This is why we find that Hussain (rta) used to respect Hasan (rta) highly and carry out his orders willingly.
As Hussain (rta) grew up, he became a kind and generous man, who would not refuse any request. He had strong faith and was extremely God-fearing. When required, he was a courageous and bold soldier. Hussain (rta) was also well-known for his eloquent speech and poetry – words fell from his lips like strings of pearls. But above all, he was a great scholar of Islam.
The Messenger of Allah (swt) loved both Hussain (rta) and Hasan (rta) dearly – he used to call them lovingly as “his Raihanahs (sweet basils) in the life of this world”. It is reported on the authority of Hudhayfah (rta) that the Prophet (sa) said:
“Oh Hudhayfah! Gabriel (Jibrael) came to me and he gave me the glad tidings that Hasan (rta) and Hussain (rta) are the masters of the young men in Paradise.”
Adapted from “Child Companions around the Prophet (sa)” published by Darussalam.
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