Arbaeen Procession An Int’l School of Generosity, Magnanimity
This is according to an article written by Reza Muhsin al-Hakim, and published by Al-Furat News.
Following are excerpts from the article:
The Arbaeen pilgrimage, which is held every year in Iraq from the beginning of the month of Safar until the Day of Arbaeen, is a unique example of generosity and magnanimity.
This generosity is not limited to Iraqi hosts, but rather the devotees of Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS) from all over the world volunteer to save money, spend their energy and that of their children, and dedicate their homes and religious centers to serving Imam Hussein (AS) and his pilgrims.
This pilgrimage is a true example of what God Almighty says in the Quran: “You will never attain goodness unless you spend of what you love.” (Verse 92 of Surah Al Imran)
Therefore, the good deeds that are bestowed upon the sincere and righteous require spending of things that a person loves.
Read More:
This is clearly demonstrated in the Arbaeen pilgrimage, where the host welcomes the pilgrim into his home without prior knowledge or consideration of his intellectual or religious leanings, and simply because he is one of the pilgrims of Imam Hussein (AS), he allows him into his home and shows the highest degree of generosity.
Dimensions of Arbaeen Pilgrimage
Spiritual Dimension: Those who serve the Arbaeen pilgrims emphasize that they have witnessed an increase and growth in their livelihood year after year, as stated by Allah the Almighty: “And whatever you spend, Allah is aware of it.” (Verse 92 of Surah Al Imran)
Therefore, spending in the way of Allah remains safe with Him and is rewarded many times over in this world before the Hereafter.
Statistical dimension: According to semi-official sources, approximately 80 percent of all Arbaeen pilgrims are Iraqis, indicating a significant popular presence. The percentage of Iraqi participation varies between 37 and 42 percent, indicating that this pilgrimage is not limited to a specific group or ethnicity, but encompasses all religions and factions, uniting communities in the goal of reaching Imam Hussein (AS).
Popular dimension: Scholars emphasize the importance of maintaining the popular face of the pilgrimage, regardless of institutionalization and formal organization. The power of this pilgrimage lies in its establishment and management through popular mobilization and volunteer work in Iraq and the world. This pilgrimage is the embodiment of the mourning ritual for the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) that is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people and strengthens their commitment to the religion of Islam.
Value dimension: The Arbaeen pilgrimage nourishes society morally and humanly, as most pilgrims are at the highest levels of faith and brotherhood and cooperate to serve each other. This pilgrimage is a living example of fraternity, where brothers defend each other, each looks at the other with compassion, and competes with each other to serve the pilgrims and meet their needs.
Role of Scholars
The role of scholars and jurists in educating people about the importance of commemorating and participating in the Arbaeen procession is undeniable. They were the pioneers and founders of this pilgrimage, and many of them sacrificed their lives by being executed or imprisoned in order to hold this great event.
This is what the Holy Quran recommends regarding following scholars, saying: “Only the scholars among His servants fear Allah.” (Verse 28 of Surah Fatir)
Read More:
The Arbaeen pilgrimage has created a general belief and collective mentality that everyone is equal in the sight of Imam Hussein (AS). Young and old, rich and poor, sinners and pious, regardless of their characteristics, lineage, and social status, are all called ‘servants of Imam Hussein (AS)’.
This scene is reminiscent of the Hajj pilgrimage, where everyone wears the same clothes, renounces their worldly pleasures, and worships God Almighty in one place and time to experience the joy of being humble in the way of God Almighty.
Social Diplomacy in Arbaeen
The participation of different ethnicities from all over the world has played an important role in resolving differences and social sensitivities between different ethnicities and people. This can be called the ‘social diplomacy’ of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, because it has played a role in the brotherhood and in creating love between nations and forgetting some sensitivities.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage is not just a passing annual event; rather, it is a manifestation of the identity of its participants, a model for humanity, love, and forgiveness. It features scenes of humility and generosity that are not seen on other occasions. All of this helps bring perspectives closer and hearts closer together, and serves as a diplomatic act, albeit with a religious and social flavor.
Read More:
Love for Hussein (AS) is a means of happiness, and growing up at the Imam Hussein (AS) international school is a symbol of pride and honor.
4298554
