The Arbaeen Pilgrimage is the world's largest public gathering that is held every year in Karbala, Iraq. This pilgrimage is held at the end of a 40-day mourning period following Ashura, the religious ritual for the commemoration of the Prophet Mohammad's grandson Hussain ibn Ali's martyrdom in 680 CE.
Mission:
To propagate awareness about the Arbaeen Walk in Iraq and about the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) to promote Justice, Peace, and Harmony.
Arbaeen Walk in Canada Last Year
For information about the walk in 2019, clickhere.
About Imam Hussain
Who is Imam Hussain?
Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was an Imam, a divinely appointed leader, who lived a life of servitude to God and guided others towards righteousness and virtue. In 680 CE Imam Hussain, refusing to submit to the tyrannical Yazid, was blockaded in the dry desert of Karbala, Iraq, with his supporters. Surrounded by an army of callous individuals, Imam Hussain and a small group of supporters, bravely stood their ground until they were brutally massacred, their heads severed, and their bodies trampled. The rest of his family, including women and children, were then chained, taken captive, and further tormented. Due to his brave stand, pure character, and selfless sacrifice, he is remembered as the greatest martyr in history, and the saviour of the true teachings of Islam.
What is Arbaeen?
Arbaeen means the 40th in Arabic and marks 40 days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. During this period, millions of people travel to Iraq to walk from the city of Najaf towards Karbala, where Imam Hussain is buried. This walk to his shrine is a ritual of self-enlightenment and purification. It is also a massive, united front of Muslims and other lovers of freedom and justice standing against oppression in support of Imam Hussain’s values. This annual walk is the world’s largest peaceful annual gathering, with at least 17 million people from 40 countries attending last year.
Why in Toronto?
The annual walk to Karbala reflects a mission that is not limited to any single country. People around the world and of all backgrounds can recognize and take inspiration from the universal message of Imam Hussain.
Why should I care?
The killing of Imam Hussain happened centuries ago in a distant land, but his message is universal and timeless. By remembering his struggle and sacrifice, we are reminding ourselves of the importance of standing for justice and putting an end to oppression. These principles are part of the core teachings of Islam. The world we live in today needs people to keep the principles of Hussain alive.
Why are people beating their chests?
The action of hitting one’s chest with their hands is an act performed by individuals as a ritual of mourning and an expression of grief. It is not to cause self-harm, but rather, to display devotion to Imam Hussain, in remembrance of his suffering and sacrifice.
Why is everyone wearing black?
The wearing of black clothing, like in many other cultures, symbolizes mourning and is a visible expression of one’s grief and sorrow.
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