Saṭḥ (Level) 3 Student in Qurʾānic Exegesis and Qurʾānic Sciences, Madrasah-yi ʿIlmīyah-yi Ḥaḍrat-i Narjis, Ḥawzah ʿIlmīyah of Khurāsān, Birjand, Iran
10.52547/has.2025.2970.1089
Abstract
The period of the imamate of Imām Ḥusayn (51–60 AH) coincided with the height of Muʿāwiyah’s oppression (41–60 AH) against the Muslim community and his deviation from the fundamental principles and norms of Islam. During these nine years, several opportunities arose for debate between the Imām and Muʿāwiyah—debates that may be regarded as one of the closest precursors to Imām Ḥusayn’s uprising against the Umayyads. Given that these debates were governed by a distinctive logic in terms of structure, content, and ethical principles, this study—employing a descriptive-analytical method and focusing specifically on the debates between Imām Ḥusayn and Muʿāwiyah—seeks to uncover the underlying logic that shaped them. The findings indicate that the most significant structural techniques employed by the Imām included precise analysis and critique of the opponent’s claims as well as argumentation by definition. In terms of content, the Imām drew upon the Qurʾān, the sayings of the Prophet, and points already acknowledged by his opponent. Regarding the ethical principles governing these debates, salient features include beginning the discourse with praise and glorification of God, patience, avoidance of contentious quarrelling, and moral courage.