Introduction The tragedy of Ashura in 61 AH (680 CE) stands as an unparalleled symbol of resistance against oppression and tyranny. Yet, after the martyrdom of Imam Hossein (AS) and his companions, the Umayyad tyrants sought to erase this movement from the pages of history. Their aim was to ensure that this defining event would…
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Every year, millions undertake an 80‑kilometre pilgrimage from Najaf to Karbala, a journey beyond words. It is not merely a walk; it is a movement of the soul. Despite scorching heat, pilgrims give up everything, united by love for Imam Hussain, who stood against tyranny and injustice at Karbala. This is the world’s largest peaceful…
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This article was originally published at: https://theconversation.com/why-arbaeen-the-shiite-muslim-pilgrimage-of-mourning-has-a-deep-significance-that-brings-millions-to-iraq-each-year-288582 Every year, millions of pilgrims walk from the deserts of southern Iraq to the holy city of Karbala for Arbaeen, one of the largest annual pilgrimages in the world. In 2026, pilgrims will converge on Karbala on Aug. 5. Arbaeen falls 40 days after Ashura, which commemorates the…
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From Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s point of view, the Arbaeen march is a “powerful spotlight” that reveals the truth of Ashura and the unity of the Islamic nation to the world. He called it an “incredible and historic gathering” that has no equal anywhere, and one that has left Western media deeply unsettled (Speech by Ayatollah…
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“The Stand with Dignity campaign” has been active since 2000, dedicated to raising awareness about the history of Karbala and Imam Hussain among non-Muslims.Over the past 25 years, the campaign has distributed 20,000 roses and 50,000 informational brochures and booklets — sharing his story of courage, justice, and standing for truth.In 2025, on Arbaeen, the…
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Whatever you are, whatever you do, imagine you are at the center of the world — and do it in the best way. That is the key to success.”These were the words of Ayatollah Khamenei, a Leader who taught Iranians that dignity comes from standing on their own feet. He pushed elites toward scientific sovereignty,…
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Civilizations are not forged solely through economic might or political power; above all, they require a shared identity, a unifying ideal, and a profound human connection. Any civilization endures only when it can gather people around a common truth and foster relationships that transcend mere material interests. In Islamic thought, the axis of this unity…
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Every year, over 20 million people walk 80 kilometres across Iraq to honour Imam Hossein, who stood against tyranny and was martyred for it. Arbaeen is not just a ritual—it’s a living symbol of sacrifice, unity, and peaceful resistance.But there’s something deeper. “The revival of pilgrimage on foot is one of the most hopeful signs…
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The great Arbaeen march is a truly divine phenomenon — beyond description, like many divine events that defy analysis. This multi-million crowd, coming from different parts of the world despite terrorist threats, is an extraordinary phenomenon that reflects the rising spirit of resistance in the path of God and a widespread collective readiness (Speech by…
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Every year, around 20 million pilgrims walk 80 km from Najaf to Karbala—the world’s largest peaceful gathering. They march under extreme heat, to honor Imam Hussain’s stand against tyranny. What’s extraordinary? Ordinary people serve them selflessly along the entire route.In recent years, this sea of humanity has grown from 10 to 20 million. And now,…
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