When Imam Husayn (a.s.) stopped at the plain of Karbala, (Kamil) he inquired as to what was the name of the place. People replied that the place was known as “Aqar.” Imam said,
“Almighty Allah! We seek your refuge from Aqar” (Aqar means barren, sterile).
Imam Husayn (a.s.) asked as to what was the name of the place. They replied that it was Karbala and was also called Ninawa, which was a village therein. Then Imam started weeping and said: Umm Salama has informed me, that one day Jibra’eel came to the presence of Prophet Muhammad (S), and you (Imam Husayn) were with me. Suddenly the Prophet said, “Leave my child”, hearing this I left you and the Prophet made you sit on his lap. Jibra’eel asked him, “Do you cherish this child”?
The Prophet replied in the affirmative. Then Jibra’eel said, “Your Ummah will kill him, and if you desire I shall show you the earth of the place where he shall be martyred.” The Prophet showed his willingness to do so. Then Jibra’eel spread his wings towards Karbala and showed the Prophet the place.
Thus when Imam Husayn (a.s.) was told that the name of the place was Karbala, he smelt the earth and said,
“This is the same place regarding which Jibra’eel had informed the Prophet, and I shall be killed herein.”
Reference : Nafasul Mahmoom – Shaikh abbas Qummi (r.a.)