Arba'een

Arba'een

Arba'een (Arabic: الأربعين‎, "forty"), also known as Chehelom (Persian: چهلم‎, "the fortieth day"), is a significant religious observance in Islam, particularly within the Shia tradition. It marks the end of the 40-day mourning period following the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

Historical Background

The Battle of Karbala took place on the 10th of Muharram, in the year 61 AH (October 10, 680 CE), where Husayn ibn Ali and his companions were martyred by the forces of Yazid I, the Umayyad caliph. This event is commemorated annually during Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram. Arba'een occurs 40 days after Ashura, symbolizing the completion of the mourning period.

Significance

Arba'een is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, with millions of pilgrims traveling to the city of Karbala, Iraq, to visit the shrine of Husayn ibn Ali. The pilgrimage is a demonstration of solidarity with Husayn's stand for justice and his sacrifice. It is a time for reflection on the values of truth, justice, and resistance against oppression.

Observance

During Arba'een, pilgrims from around the world walk to Karbala, often covering hundreds of kilometers on foot. The journey is marked by acts of charity, hospitality, and communal prayer. Along the routes, volunteers set up tents to provide food, water, and medical aid to the pilgrims.

Cultural Impact

Arba'een has a profound cultural and spiritual impact on Shia communities. It reinforces the collective memory of Husayn's martyrdom and the principles he stood for. The event also serves as a unifying force among Shia Muslims, transcending national and ethnic boundaries.

Also see

• Ashura
• Husayn ibn Ali
• Karbala
• Shia Islam
• Islamic calendar