Hazrat Muslim bin Aqeel ibn Abi Talib (a.s) was a noble companion of the Prophet Muhammad’s family and the first cousin of Imam Hussain (عليه السلام). He was the son of Aqeel ibn Abi Talib (a.s), making him a member of the revered Banu Hashim clan. Known for his courage, piety, loyalty, and deep sense of justice, Muslim bin Aqeel holds a distinguished position in Islamic history, especially in the events leading up to the tragedy of Karbala.
In 60 AH, when the people of Kufa invited Imam Hussain (a.s) to lead them against the tyranny of Yazid, Imām Hussain sent Muslim bin Aqeel (a.s) as his emissary to assess the situation. Muslim arrived in Kufa and was warmly received at first, with thousands pledging allegiance to Imam Hussain through him. However, when the ruthless governor Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad was appointed, the political climate changed drastically. The people of Kufa abandoned their support out of fear, leaving Muslim nearly alone.
Despite being betrayed, Muslim remained steadfast. He fought bravely against the forces of Ibn Ziyad until he was captured on 9th Dhul-Hijjah 60 AH. He was martyred in Kufa, becoming one of the earliest martyrs of the Karbala movement. His sacrifice paved the way for the stand of Imam Hussain (a.s) and is remembered as a symbol of loyalty, truth, and resistance against oppression.
