Arbaeen Ziyarat: A Journey of Love and Faith
Arbaeen Ziyarat is a pilgrimage that millions of Muslims make every year to the holy city of Karbala in Iraq. It is a journey of love and faith that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in the battle of Karbala in the year 680 AD.
What is Arbaeen Ziyarat?
Arbaeen means forty in Arabic, and it refers to the fortieth day after Ashura, the day when Imam Husain (AS) and his loyal followers were brutally killed by the army of Yazid, the tyrant ruler of the Umayyad dynasty. Imam Husain (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, who was corrupt and oppressive, and stood up for justice and truth. He sacrificed his life and his family for the sake of Islam and humanity.
Arbaeen Ziyarat is a way of expressing loyalty, gratitude and devotion to Imam Husain (AS) and his noble cause. It is also a way of renewing the pledge to follow his example and teachings, which are derived from the sources of Islamic jurisprudence.
How is Arbaeen Ziyarat performed?
Arbaeen Ziyarat is performed by visiting the shrines of Imam Husain (AS) and his brother Hazrat Abbas (AS) in Karbala, where they are buried. The pilgrims also visit other holy sites related to the tragedy of Karbala, such as the graves of other martyrs, the place where Imam Husain’s (AS) head was severed, the place where his sister Zainab (SA) delivered a powerful sermon against Yazid, and the place where his son Ali Zainul Abideen (AS) was imprisoned.
One of the most remarkable features of Arbaeen Ziyarat is the walk from Najaf to Karbala, which covers a distance of about 80 kilometers. This walk is a symbol of solidarity, endurance and love for Imam Husain (AS). Millions of people from different countries, backgrounds and sects join this walk every year, forming a huge human caravan that moves with chants of “Labbaik Ya Hussain” (Here I am, O Husain).
The walk is also a manifestation of generosity and hospitality, as thousands of volunteers set up camps along the way to provide free food, water, medical care and accommodation to the walkers. These camps are called mawakeb, and they are funded by Islamic charities and donations from believers.
What are the benefits of Arbaeen Ziyarat?
Arbaeen Ziyarat is not only a physical journey, but also a spiritual one. It has many benefits for the pilgrims, such as:
- It strengthens their faith and connection with Allah (SWT), as they remember His blessings and mercy on Imam Husain (AS) and his followers.
- It purifies their souls and hearts from sins and evils, as they repent and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) for their shortcomings.
- It inspires them to follow the path of Imam Husain (AS) and his principles of justice, courage, patience and sacrifice.
- It unites them with their fellow Muslims in brotherhood and harmony, as they share their joys and sorrows with each other.
- It educates them about the history and values of Islam, as they learn from the stories and lessons of Imam Husain (AS) and his companions.
- It motivates them to serve humanity and contribute to social justice, as they witness the needs and challenges of the people in Iraq and other parts of the world.
Arbaeen Ziyarat is a unique experience that transforms the lives of those who undertake it. It is a journey that touches the hearts and souls of millions every year. It is a journey that honors Imam Husain (AS), who gave everything for Islam. It is a journey that celebrates love and faith in Allah (SWT).
