The number "72" in the context of Karbala refers to the number of martyrs who stood with Imam Husayn ibn Ali against the forces of Yazid ibn Muawiyah. It does not refer to a single person named "72".
The events at Karbala in 61 AH (680 CE) saw a small group led by Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, confront a much larger army. The battle resulted in the martyrdom of Husayn and many of his companions and family members.
The Significance of the Number 72
The number 72 is widely recognized as representing the approximate total number of individuals who were martyred fighting alongside Imam Husayn on the Day of Ashura. This figure symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice made by a small, dedicated group for their principles.
According to historical accounts, Seventy or seventy-two people died on Husayn's side. This group was composed of both members of the Prophet's family and loyal companions.
Breakdown of the Martyrs
The martyrs included a significant number of descendants from the family of Abu Talib, who was the father of Imam Ali. Out of the seventy or seventy-two who were martyred, about twenty were descendants of Abu Talib, the father of Ali.
This group of descendants included:
- Two of Imam Husayn's own sons
- Six of Imam Husayn's paternal brothers
- Three sons of Hasan ibn Ali (Imam Husayn's elder brother)
- Three sons of Jafar ibn Abi Talib (Uncle of Imam Husayn)
- Three sons and three grandsons of Aqil ibn Abi Talib (Uncle of Imam Husayn)
| Relationship to Imam Husayn | Approximate Number Martyred |
|---|---|
| Sons | 2 |
| Paternal Brothers | 6 |
| Sons of Hasan ibn Ali | 3 |
| Sons of Jafar ibn Abi Talib | 3 |
| Sons & Grandsons of Aqil ibn Abi Talib | 6 (3 sons, 3 grandsons) |
| Total Descendants of Abu Talib | ~20 |
The remaining individuals among the seventy or seventy-two were steadfast companions who chose to stand and fight alongside Imam Husayn, demonstrating unwavering loyalty in the face of overwhelming odds.
The number 72, therefore, represents this brave contingent of martyrs who fell during the Battle of Karbala, signifying their collective sacrifice rather than a single individual.
