Arbaeen: A Journey of Love Towards the King

Arbaeen, a word that reminds us of the story of Karbala, means “The Fortieth.” In Shia Islam, Arbaeen specifically refers to the fortieth day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.). Imam Hussain (A.S.) was martyred on the land of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram, a day known as Ashura. Therefore, Arbaeen falls on the 20th of Safar, the second month of the Islamic calendar.

After the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.) and his companions, the surviving children and other family members, including Imam Hussain’s (A.S.) wives, children, and sisters, returned to Karbala. They visited the tombs of Imam Hussain (A.S.) and the other martyrs of Karbala. And it became a tradition among Shia Muslims, and the Imams of Shia Islam have also emphasized visiting the shrine of Imam Hussain on Arbaeen. This serves as a way to remember their suffering and the injustices they faced. It is a form of honoring their sacrifices and keeping their memory alive.

This day reminds us of the great sacrifice made by Imam Hussain (A.S.), which people will remember for as long as the world exists. Imam Hussain (A.S.) sacrificed his family in the battle between truth and falsehood, proving that nothing is greater than the religion of Allah. This immense sacrifice teaches us profound lessons in every moment of our lives.

Steps of Devotion to Their King

Shia Muslims participate in the Arbaeen walk from Najaf to Karbala. This tradition started with Iraqi Shia Muslims who undertook the journey on foot, even when Saddam Hussein’s government restricted it. He did not allow any Shia Muslim to cover this path and brutally punished those who attempted the Arbaeen walk.

Imagine that legs have been cut, but still, people go and try to cross the distance by moving through palm groves and covering the path at night. This is the true journey of love and affection towards the King—Imam Hussain (A.S.).

Hospitality of the King

Before his martyrdom, Imam Hussain (A.S.) instructed the people of Karbala to host anyone who came to his shrine for at least three days and to treat them as his guests. To follow this instruction, Shia Muslims from all over the world set up “Mowkebs” to serve those who walk from Najaf to Karbala to meet their King. These Mowkebs symbolize the true love people have for Imam Hussain (A.S.). They are designed by different Shia Muslims from around the world and managed by the Iraqi government.

The Arbaeen walk begins in Najaf, where the shrine of Imam Ali (A.S.) is located. It is as if they are seeking permission from Imam Ali (A.S.) to visit the shrine of his son. The distance from Najaf to Karbala is about 80 kilometers, with 1,452 poles along the way. Each pole is numbered, helping people know how much distance they have covered.

A River of Love

Captured by Ghazi taimur

All the ways leading to Karbala are full of pilgrims during Arbaeen. In this journey of love, women and children participate just like men. It is an expression of love for Imam Hussain (A.S.), and along the way, you will find elderly, disabled, and sick individuals, all united in their devotion. To manage the crowd of over 20 million and to help them, the Iraqi government plays a significant role, but not everyone can serve the visitors unless they have true love for the King and a life dedicated to loving Hussain (A.S.). These individuals are available 24 hours a day to assist the pilgrims, and in return for their service, they ask for just one thing: a salute to Imam Hussain (A.S.) and prayers for them.

Purpose of This Devotion

The purpose of life is solely the love of Hussain (A.S.). That is the only thing in the hearts and minds of every pilgrim. This walk is a great example of unity and demonstrates the power of Shia Muslims, who make up only 15-20% of the total Muslim community. People leave their work and come here to help and serve others. People from every field of work participate, providing everything from food to medical treatment, water to shoe repair, comfort to ensuring a clean environment for visitors. Keeping in mind that every child on this walk should have activities, Mowkebs also provide various play activities.

One Mowkeb set up by the Indian people, known as Karvane Hind, accommodates over 7,000 people, with separate spaces for men and women. Every comfort, including pillows, mattresses, and blankets, is provided. This is just one example; many more can be seen along the path.

This walk is a great way of showing humanity. Not only that, but it also shows the connection between God and His people. The spiritual experience of continuously moving, praying in the face of 40-degree-plus temperatures, and enduring pain reflects the strength of devotion. The journey started by Imam Hussain (A.S.) with a few family members is now upheld by millions worldwide, driven by their love for the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).