The Effect of Imam Sajjad’s Sermon on people in Syria (Damascus)
The effect of the speech was so powerful that everybody in the court began to weep and blame Yazid. Yazid was afraid that the Imam continued his speech; there would be a revolution and revolt. At the same time, Yazid could not stop Imam and get him down from the pulpit. He, therefore, ordered a caller of prayer to give Azaan, knowing that this would automatically cut the Imam’s speech.
When the Muazzin said Allah-o Akbar (God is Greatest), Imam Sadjad (A.S) said: “There is nothing Greater than God.” When Muazzin said: “Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah”, he replied: “My hair, skin, flesh and bone testify Oneness of God.”
When the Muazzin said: “Ashadu Anna Muhammedan Rasoolullah”, Imam Sadjad (A.S) took off his turban and addressed Yazid: "Tell me O Yazid, was Muhammad (PBUH) your grandfather or mine? If you say he was your grandfather, it would be an open lie, and if you say he was my grandfather then why have you killed his son and imprisoned his family? Why have you killed my father and brought his family to this city as prisoners. In the Hereafter my father and my grandfather will be your enemies.”
At this time, Yazid called the Moazzin to continue! There was a commotion in the public. Some performed prayers, some left the scene. Imam Sadjad’s sermon deeply affected the people in the mosque and gave them courage to think on and express the truth about Ashura tragedy.
Translated by: Sadroddin Musawi
Other links:
Imam Sadjad (A.S), The Messenger of Karbala
Imam Sadjad’s Sermon in Kufa
