Introduction
Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar was one of the companions of Mukhtar al-Thaqafi who fought against the Umayyad in seeking revenge for the blood of Imam al-Husain (a.s). Ibrahim was the son of Malik al-Ashtar, a loyal supporter of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, and he inherited both a legacy of bravery and an unwavering commitment to justice. His name is often associated with the resistance against tyranny, making him a prominent figure in the narratives surrounding the aftermath of the tragedy of Karbala.
This paper aims to delve into the life of Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar, tracing his roots in a family known for its valor and principles. It examines his role in the volatile politics of the Umayyad and Abbasid periods and highlights his military acumen, most notably his leadership in the Battle of al-Khazir. By exploring his alliances, particularly with Al-Mukhtar al-Thaqafi, and his efforts to avenge the martyrdom of Imam Husain (a.s), this paper sheds light on his pivotal contributions to the Islamic resistance movements of his era. Ultimately, understanding the life and legacy of Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar provides deeper insight into the political and ideological conflicts that defined the formative years of Islamic history.
His Family Background
Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar came from a family known for their loyalty and faithfulness to the pure Prophet’s Household[1]. His father, Malik al-Ashtar, was a prominent companion of Imam Ali, known for his bravery and loyalty, and a celebrated military commander who played a significant role in the Battle of Jamal[2] and Siffin[3].
This legacy of courage, piety, and loyalty to Imam Ali’s cause profoundly influenced Ibrahim’s life. The Ash‘arite family was revered in both Sunni and Shia traditions for its unwavering commitment to justice and resistance against oppression, qualities that defined Ibrahim’s political and military endeavors.
His Early Life
There is no information about the life of Ibrahim before joining al-Mukhtar, except that he said that in the Battle of Siffin, he fought together with his father in the army of Imam Ali (a.s) against Mu’awiya[4].
Born in an era marked by political turbulence and military strife, Ibrahim grew up in a household that championed the values of justice, loyalty, and resistance to tyranny. These formative years would shape Ibrahim’s character and prepare him for the challenges he would face as a leader.
Malik al-Ashtar’s prominence as a warrior and devout supporter of Imam Ali left a profound imprint on Ibrahim’s upbringing. Known for his courage, steadfastness, and moral clarity, Malik al-Ashtar was a revered figure in the Muslim community, particularly among those aligned with Imam Ali’s vision for leadership. His unwavering loyalty during battles like Siffin and his governance of Egypt at Imam Ali’s behest demonstrated his commitment to justice and equity.
Ibrahim inherited not only his father’s martial prowess but also the ideological principles that defined Malik’s life. Growing up under the mentorship of such a towering figure instilled in him a sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of the socio-political dynamics of the time. His father’s legacy ensured that Ibrahim was groomed as both a skilled warrior and a principled leader.
Ibrahim’s early life would also have been shaped by the hardships his family endured due to their affiliation with Imam Ali. The political and social marginalization they faced at the hands of the Umayyads fostered a sense of resilience and resistance, qualities that would define Ibrahim’s later career.
Joining the Movement of Mukhtar
In the year 66 AH (685–686 CE), al-Mukhtar al-Thaqafi, a prominent and influential figure, rose to prominence as a leader rallying support for an uprising against the oppressive Umayyad regime. Al-Mukhtar positioned himself as the representative of Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya, a respected figure from the family of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). With this claim, he prepared the grounds for a significant revolt, driven by a powerful desire to avenge the tragic massacre of Karbala, in which Imam al-Husain (a.s) and his companions were martyred[5].
The Shia of Kufa, who supported al-Mukhtar, recognized Ibrahim ibn al-Ashtar’s charisma and leadership potential, recalling his father Malik al-Ashtar’s loyalty to Imam Ali (a.s). They invited Ibrahim to join the uprising, and he agreed, provided he was made commander. However, the Kufan nobles reminded him that Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya had already entrusted leadership to al-Mukhtar.
Al-Mukhtar personally met with Ibrahim, presenting a letter he claimed was from Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya, urging Ibrahim to join the uprising against the Umayyads. The letter aimed to solidify Ibrahim’s commitment and alliance with al-Mukhtar to avenge the martyrs of Karbala[6].
At first, Ibrahim hesitated to believe that the letter was genuinely from Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya, noting an inconsistency in its writing[7]. However, his doubts were assuaged when individuals such as Yazid ibn Anas al-Asadi, Ahmar b. Shumayt al-Bajali, and ‘Abd Allah ibn Kamil al-Shakiri testified that they had personally witnessed Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya authoring the letter addressed to Ibrahim[8]. Trusting their testimonies, Ibrahim accepted the invitation to join the uprising and pledged his allegiance to al-Mukhtar.
Al-Shaʿbi, a key figure in Ibrahim’s alliance with al-Mukhtar, questioned the authenticity of the letter attributed to Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyya. After investigating, he learned from Kaysan, a witness, that their belief in the letter’s origin relied on their trust in al-Mukhtar’s credibility[9].
The Uprising of al-Mukhtar
Hence, Ibrahim and al-Mukhtar agreed to initiate the uprising in Kufa in the first half of Rabi’ I, 66/685, but they later postponed the beginning of the uprising to the first Thursday after the first half of the same month[10].
Following this battle, al-Mukhtar established himself in Kufa and focused on consolidating his authority over other cities in Iraq, aiming to confront the Umayyads and avenge the killers of Imam al-Husain (a.s). To expand his campaign, he appointed Ibrahim as governor of Mosul and tasked him with leading a military expedition against ʿUbayd Allah ibn Ziyad, who had been dispatched to Iraq by ʿAbd al-Malik b. Marwan in Dhu l-Hijja 66 AH (July 686 CE).
However, while Ibrahim was away, some prominent figures among the nobles of Kufa, who accused al-Mukhtar of deception and falsehood, staged a rebellion against his rule. Al-Mukhtar swiftly acted by sending a messenger to recall Ibrahim from his mission[11]. Responding promptly, Ibrahim returned from Mada’in, and together with al-Mukhtar, they successfully crushed the insurrection after engaging in several fierce battles[12].
The Battle of al-Khazir
After quelling the rebellion in Kufa, Ibrahim set out to confront Ibn Ziyad with a force numbering between eight and twenty thousand soldiers on either the 6th, 8th, or 21st of Dhu l-Hijja, 66 AH (corresponding to the 4th, 6th, or 19th of July, 686 CE). The majority of his troops were Iranian freedmen known as al-Hamra[13]. On the 10th of Muharram, 67 AH (August 6th, 686 CE), a significant battle occurred at the banks of the al-Khazir River, near Zab, approximately 5 Farsakhs from Mosul[14].
According to al-Baladhuri, Ibrahim’s army initially faced setbacks on the battlefield, leading to false rumors of his death, possibly to undermine al-Mukhtar’s rule in Kufa. However, Ibrahim’s forces quickly regrouped and launched a powerful counterattack, decisively defeating ʿUbayd Allah ibn Ziyad’s army.
In the course of the battle, Ibrahim personally killed ʿUbayd Allah ibn Ziyad, Husayn ibn Numayr, and Shurahbil ibn Dhi l-Kilaʿ, all of whom had played pivotal roles in the killing of Imam Husain (a.s)[15]. The death of Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad in the battle symbolized retribution for Karbala and was celebrated as a moral triumph by the resistance movement. This victory solidified Ibrahim’s reputation as a courageous leader and remains a lasting testament to the ideals of justice and resistance against oppression in Islamic history.
Challenges After Al-Mukhtar’s Uprising
Following the success of Al-Mukhtar’s early campaigns, the rebellion faced mounting pressure from multiple factions, including loyalists to the Umayyad caliphate and rival political forces. Al-Mukhtar himself was ultimately defeated and killed by Mus‘ab ibn al-Zubayr in 687 CE, signaling the decline of his movement.
Despite the fall of Al-Mukhtar, Ibrahim did not fade into obscurity. He continued to resist the Umayyads and other forces he saw as unjust. There are accounts that he aligned with factions opposing the Umayyads, including a temporary alignment with the Abbasid movement, which was gaining momentum as a serious contender to the ruling dynasty.
Circumstances of Death
The details surrounding Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar’s death remain debated among historians. Some sources suggest that he was killed in battle, continuing the warrior’s path he had walked his entire life. Others propose that political betrayals or rivalries led to his demise, a testament to the treacherous and unstable nature of the era.
Historians have different opinions about the time of the murder of Ibrahim. Although Ibn Athir[16] and Ṭabari[17] have mentioned it in 71/690-1; most historians have considered 72/691 and most likely Jumada II/October-November 691 as the correct date of the mentioned event.
Regardless of the specifics, Ibrahim’s death marked the end of a career defined by bravery, loyalty, and a relentless pursuit of justice. He remained, until the very end, a steadfast symbol of resistance against oppression.
His Legacy
Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar’s legacy is deeply enshrined in both Sunni and Shia traditions, albeit in different contexts. For the Shia community, he is revered as a champion of justice who avenged Karbala and upheld the principles of Imam Ali and Imam Husain (peace be upon them). His military victories, particularly over Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad, are seen as divine justice and a continuation of the fight against tyranny.
Ibrahim’s life has been immortalized in various forms, including historical chronicles and oral traditions. His legacy transcends his time, resonating with those who seek to understand the complexities of early Islamic history.
Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar’s legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to justice, his military brilliance, and his role in avenging Karbala. Revered in both Sunni and Shia traditions, he is celebrated for defeating Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad, which symbolizes divine retribution. His military leadership, particularly at the Battle of al-Khazir, demonstrated his tactical skill and resilience against oppression.
Ibrahim’s story transcends his time, symbolizing resistance against tyranny and inspiring generations to champion justice. He remains a respected figure in Islamic history and culture, remembered for his valor and steadfast adherence to moral principles.
Conclusion
The life of Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar is a powerful testament to the enduring struggle for justice and the resilience of those who oppose tyranny. As the son of a legendary warrior and a loyal companion of Imam Ali, Ibrahim inherited a legacy of valor, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to moral principles. His role in avenging the tragedy of Karbala and his pivotal leadership in the Battle of al-Khazir demonstrated not only his military genius but also his deep commitment to justice in the face of overwhelming odds.
Although he lived in a tumultuous era marked by political instability and fierce factionalism, Ibrahim remained steadfast in his ideals. His alliances, battles, and ultimate sacrifices serve as enduring symbols of resistance to oppression and the pursuit of justice.
Ibrahim’s legacy lives on as a celebrated figure in Islamic history and culture. His courage, leadership, and dedication to upholding what he believed was right continue to inspire and resonate with those who seek to understand the moral complexities and the spirit of resistance in early Islamic history. By examining his life, we gain deeper insight into the struggles and values that shaped his time and left a lasting impact on the generations that followed.
References
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[2]. Muhajir, Ja’far, Malik al-Ashtar Siratih wa Muqamih fi Ba’labak, p. 83.
[3] . Amin, al-Sayyid Muhsin al-. A’yan al-Shi’a, vol. 9, p. 39.
[4] . Nasr ibn Muzahim, Waqiʿat al-Ṣiffīn, p. 441.
[5] . Amin, al-Sayyid Muhsin al-. A’yan al-Shi’a, vol. 2, p. 200.
[6] . Baladhuri, Ahmad ibn Yahya, Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 5, p. 222.
[7] . Ṭabari, Tārikh Ṭabari, vol. 6, pp. 16-17; Baladhuri, Ahmad ibn Yahya, Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 5, p. 222.
[8]. Ibn Saʿd, Muhammad, Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, p. 74; Ibn ʿAsakir, Ali ibn al-Hasan, Tārikh Madinat Dimashq, vol. 54, p. 342.
[9] . Dinawari, Ahmad ibn Dawud, Akhbar al-Tiwal, p. 290.
[10] . Baladhuri, Ahmad ibn Yahya, Ansab al-Ashraf, vol. 5, p. 223.
[11]. Ibid, vol. 5, p. 230.
[12]. Ibid, vol. 5, p. 231.
[13]. Ibn Saʿd, Muhammad, Tabaqat al-Kubra, vol. 5, p. 100.
[14] . Ṭabari, Tārikh Ṭabari, vol. 6, p. 86.
[15] . Khalifa ibn Khayyat, Tārikh, vol. 1, p. 332.
[16] . Ibn Athir, al-Kāmil, vol. 4, p. 323.
[17]. Ṭabari, Tārikh Ṭabari, vol. 6, p. 158.
