A companion of Imam Husain (a.s.), Abis bin Abi Sliabeeb Shakri was
such that his soul was full of the ‘Husainite enthusiasm’. When he entered
the battlefield he recited the war poem (Rajaz)6 as was the custom, and
challenged the enemy for a single combat. However, no one from the
enemy’s side dared to confront this lion-hearted companion of Imam
Husain (a.s.).
When in spite of repeated calls no one dared to come forward to fight
Abis, he became angry and returned from the field. He took off his
helmet, armor and shoes and went to the battlefield barefoot and called
out: “Come out to fight Abis at least now.”7
But not dared to come forward. At last Umar Saad’s army stooped to
cowardice and they began to throw stones and pieces of broken swords on
Abis and in this way they martyred him.
The courage and sincerity displayed by the loyal companions of Imam
Husain (a.s.) on the Ashura day cannot be equaled.
Biharul Anwar, Vol. 45, Pg. 28; Maqtal-e-Husain, Muqarram, Pg. 251.