Observed by Muslims around the world, Ashura Day commemorates the martialism of Imam Hussein at the Battle of Karbara at Muharam 10, 61 AH (October 10, 680).
This event continues to encourage Shia Muslims and others to emulate Imam Hussein’s pursuit of independence and liberation.
Imam Hussein (AS) is respected for his piety and opposed Yazid’s succession as the caliph of Damascus due to Yazid’s inappropriateness.
The events of Ashura were short, but extremely important. Despite efforts to erase that memory, Ashura’s lessons endure, with millions lamenting the injustice against Imam Hussein.
Shia Muslims will observe a special ritual during the first 10 days of Muharam, marked from July 19th to 28th this year. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims travel to Karbara, Iraq, to visit the shrines of Imam Hussein (AS).
Most recently, it commemorates Imam Hussein (AS) and 72 martial artists of his followers.
Mourning rituals include mourning and decorating flags in black and worship, mosques, Husainiyah.
Ashura, a deep day of mourning for Shiite Muslims, commemorates the martialism of Imam Hussein in Karbara, Iraq.
Re-enacting the event, recreating the ritual and passion is central to observance.
These Muharram mourning rituals are the basis of Shia culture and are observed worldwide in a variety of ways. Pilgrimage to the shrine of Imam Hussein in Karbala is also common.
The importance of Ashura transcends Islamic history and embodies the universal value of humanity, courage and integrity.
The memorial honors these principles, even non-Muslims. Some communities prepare special foods and distribute them to the poor, representing charity and memory. Others are engaged in blood donation drives, reflecting the sacrifice of Imam Hussein.
The act of mourning itself is seen as a powerful form of dedication to connect with Hussein’s suffering and reaffirm his commitment to justice.
Ashura is a powerful symbol of resistance to oppression, a call for moral mercy, deeply resonating within Shia communities and inspires reflections on universal ethical principles.
In Iran, the night of Asura, Shahm et Galiban (“Trump’s Night”) is characterized by candle lighting in the sacred site.
This tragedy has also been observed in countries with important Shia communities, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Syria.
Iranians mourn and listen to elegy. Distribution of “nazuri” (produced food) is a central ritual, offering foods and drinks such as tea and fruit juices. Even non-Muslims participate and receive food from their neighbors.
This tradition has been industrialised and companies offer Nazri. In Tehran, families prepare a variety of dishes to share with their neighbors.
Tajie’s performance, listed on the UNESCO list of human heritage intangible cultural heritage, depicts religious, historical and mythical stories through poetry, music, songs and movement.
These dramas depict the events of Ashura, depicted from the Iranian musical tradition and date back to the 9th century. Their performance flourished in the era of Safavid and Qajar.
Master miniatureist Mahmoud Falsian created “Ashura’s Evening” to portray one of the greatest tragedies for Muslims and to represent the power of art to represent the major events of history.
The masterpiece depicts the helpless household of Imam Hussein (AS) who mourns after his horse returns from the battlefield. Their deep sorrow for their beloved people is fully depicted in this Persian miniature painting.
Kalbala represents a conflict between truth and falsehood, justice and prejudice, courage and secularity.
Muharam rituals embody the eternal struggle for truth against falsehood and the fight against injustice, tyranny and oppression.
In the face of overwhelming odds, Ashura Day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for principles and unwavering commitment to justice.
It is a testament to the power of enduring faith and the resilience of the human spirit.
The story of Imam Hussein (AS) is not limited to history. It is a living story, and continues to resonate with people from all backgrounds who are free from oppression and longing for a world soaked in righteousness.
The rituals and traditions associated with Asura are not merely acts of mourning. They are a deep expression of solidarity between Imam Hussein (AS) and his followers.
They act as a call to action, urging individuals to stand up to injustice and strive for a more equitable and compassionate world.
Black outfits, mourning flags, elegy and nazri all contribute to the collective experience of grief and memory, strengthen community ties and strengthen the value of empathy and compassion.
The Pilgrimage to Karbara is a spiritual journey set out by hundreds of thousands of followers each year, seeking to connect with the spirit of Imam Hussein (AS) and draw inspiration from his unwavering faith.
The shrine of Imam Hussein (AS) is a beacon of hope, a symbol of resistance to tyranny, attracting pilgrims from every corner of the globe.
The atmosphere of devotion and respect that permeates the Karbara during Muharam is evident, creating an environment of deep spiritual transformation.
Nazri tradition, or votive food, is a powerful expression of generosity and compassion. It transcends religious boundaries, cultivates a sense of community and shares humanity.
Providing food and drinks to mourners and neighbors is a concrete demonstration of empathy and a reminder of the importance of caring for those in need.
Nazri’s industrialization emphasizes the enduring importance of this tradition while reflecting modern trends.
Ta’zieh’s performance is a unique and fascinating art form that brings Ashura’s story to life.
Through poetry, music, songs and movements, these dramas vividly portray the events of Kalbala and captivate the audience on an emotional and intellectual level.
UNESCO’s recognition of Tajie as an intangible cultural heritage highlights its importance as a cultural treasure and its enduring connection in the modern world.
Essentially, Ashura is a serious and multifaceted memorial that transcends time and space.
It reminds us of the eternal struggle between good and evil, truth and falsehood, justice and injustice. It is a call to action, urging individuals to stand up to the right, and strive for a world where principles of compassion, empathy and justice are prioritized, even in the face of adversity.
The legacy of Imam Hussein (AS) continues to inspire millions of people around the world, making Ashura a powerful and lasting symbol of hope and resistance.
Reported by Tohid Mahmoudpour