Employing the Life of Christ in Shaping the Sanctity of al-Husayn ibn ʿAlī: A Comparative Study within Shi‘a Heritage

Abstract

This research compares the figures of Jesus Christ and al-Husayn ibn ʿAlī in light of Shiʿa sources, premised on the notion that Shiʿa tradition engages with the Islamic biography of Christ to elevate the status of al-Husayn and the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet’s family). The study analyzes this intersection through several key themes. It begins by tracing the noble lineage of each figure, showing how the divine selection of the family of Imran parallels the elevated status of the Ahl al-Bayt. It then examines their mothers—Mary, daughter of Imran, and Fatima al-Zahra—demonstrating how the virtues of Mary are invoked to reinforce the sanctity of Fatima. Next, the study considers the prophecies surrounding their births and the miraculous nature of these births, highlighting their signs of exceptional status.The research also discusses the extraordinary abilities and miracles attributed to both figures, including healing and esoteric knowledge, and compares their foreknowledge of their destinies and the circumstances of their deaths, particularly the details of their thirst and ultimate sacrifice.The study concludes that Shiʿa tradition has deliberately shaped the character of al-Husayn with traits analogous to those of Christ, thereby reinforcing his role as a redeemer and savior.