1.1 Introduction Arbaeen commemoration falls forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in Karbala. It is one of the most importa...
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1.1 Introduction
Arbaeen
commemoration falls forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in Karbala.
It is one of the most important rituals commemorated by Muslims, as millions of
pilgrims from around the world flock to his holy shrine in Karbala, Iraq. This
commemoration is one of the most significant religious occasions that unites
Muslims around the world, reflecting their connection to Imam Hussein's
principles of justice, freedom, and dignity. It highlights the unity of purpose
and principles that unite them. It is a social and spiritual phenomenon that
represents a bridge of rapprochement and
unity among the various segments of the Islamic nation. It is an occasion that
unites Muslims in love, tolerance, and mutual respect, regardless of sectarian
or geographical differences. Imam Hussein's ideas of resisting injustice and
aggression intersect with the principles of human justice that everyone strives
to achieve. Therefore, the participation of Muslims from different sects and
affiliations in commemorating this commemoration reinforces the concept of
Islamic unity
1.2 Islamic Unity
What
comes to mind for many people when the term Islamic unity is mentioned is that
all Muslims should have one opinion, one stance, and one belief. Some even
think that it means that all Muslims should be Shia Ahl-al-Bayt or Ahl as-Sunnah,
or that they should follow one specific school of thought. Neither of these is true Islamic unity.
Rather, unity here means Islamic brotherhood and love. Almighty Allah (SWA) stated that believers
are brothers, so make a settlement between your two brothers. Islamic unity means
avoiding disputes, fighting, and conflicts. It is said in the Holy Quran,
"And do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and your strength
departs."
Islamic
unity is the true embodiment of cohesion and cooperation among Muslims of all
faiths, countries, and cultures, for the common goal of serving the Islamic
faith and promoting its tolerant principles. Islamic unity is therefore one of
the fundamental pillars that the nation strives to achieve, as it contributes
to strengthening its ranks, enhancing its standing, and confronting the
challenges facing the nation.
Islamic
unity is manifested in working to unify ranks and positions, avoiding division
and disagreement, through cooperation in righteousness and piety, respecting
religious diversity, and not allowing any disagreements to lead to division and
weakness. It reflects the spirit of Islamic brotherhood called for by the Holy
Quran and Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, which calls for
love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among the people of the nation.
Islamic
unity is considered one of the most important principles emphasised by the Holy
Quran and the Noble Prophetic Hadiths. This is because it is the basis of the
strength of the Islamic nation and the reason for its unity and cohesion in the
face of contemporary challenges and conflicts.
In
the Holy Quran, Almighty Allah (SWA) clearly states a strict command and a
definitive prohibition, saying: "And hold fast, all together, to the rope
of God, and be not divided." This verse emphasises the necessity of
adhering to the unity of the nation and not being divided. Further, the
declaration of Almighty Allah that “believers are but brothers” highlights the brotherhood of believers and
the importance of their solidarity.
In
a prophetic narration, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him
and his family) said, "A Muslim is a brother to a Muslim. He does not
wrong him, abandon him, or look down on him. Piety is here," and he (SAW) pointed
to his chest. "It is enough evil for a man to look down on his Muslim
brother. " This hadith demonstrates that brotherhood and unity among
Muslims are among the greatest stations of faith. He ( may Almighty Allah bless him and his family) also said:
“You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until
you love one another. Shall I not guide you to something which, if you do it,
you will love one another? Spread Salam (peace) among yourselves.” This
indicates that spreading Islamic greetings of peace (i.e., salam alaikum) and love among Muslim brothers strengthens unity. It is also narrated that
"A believer is to another believer like a building, each part
strengthening the other. "This is another clear evidence of the
importance of solidarity, mutual support, unity and compassion among Muslims.
The
concept of Islamic unity is one of the most crucial factors enabling the nation to confront its political, economic, and cultural challenges.
It enhances its standing in the world and strengthens its spiritual and social
ties. It is not merely a slogan; it is an ongoing effort that requires the
combined efforts of all Muslims to build a more united, secure, and prosperous
future for all.
Arbaeen
visit to Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) is not merely a religious occasion;
it is also a sublime message that
affirms the unity of the Islamic nation, calls for overcoming differences, and
promotes the values of love and tolerance. It is a platform for unification, an
opportunity to reunite Muslims, and a reaffirmation that the principles of
Imam Hussein live on in the hearts of believers, and that solidarity for
justice and truth is the path to achieving peace and unity in the Islamic
nation. In addition to these, the
rituals and events of Arbaeen play an important role in strengthening
unity. The processions, Quranic
recitations, conferences, seminars, sermons, and group visits are all
manifestations of commemorating the Arbaeen that create a sense of
shared belonging. The influx of Muslims from various countries and their
solidarity in serving the pilgrims reflects the spirit of solidarity and
cooperation advocated by Imam Hussein (AS), and reinforces the spirit of unity
and cohesion among the people of the nation.
Arbaeen
commemoration expresses the will of the Muslim peoples to preserve their unity
and emphasises the importance of cooperation and solidarity in confronting the
challenges facing the nation. It is an occasion to remind Muslims that they are
one nation, that the values of solidarity and love must remain firmly rooted in
their hearts, and that it must build bridges of understanding and mutual
respect among different sects and denominations.
The
Islamic nation, throughout the ages, remembers on this occasion that Imam
Hussein, peace be upon him, was not killed merely for an individual cause, but
rather because he represented the voice of truth in the face of injustice and
tyranny. His martyrdom became a symbol of revolution against oppressors and a
symbol of unity for all who seek justice.
The participation of Muslims of all sects and denominations in
commemorating Arbaeen affirms that the spirit of unity and tolerance
remains present, and that political or sectarian differences should not hinder
spiritual and fraternal communication among the nation's people. Everyone who
participates in this occasion, whether Sunni or Shia, finds in Imam Hussein
(AS) a symbol of dignity, justice, and freedom, which further strengthens the
principles of coexistence and harmony.
The widespread participation in commemorating this anniversary
highlights the value of solidarity and mutual support, affirming that the unity
of the nation is not just a slogan, but a reality that can be achieved through
collective action and adherence to the principles of truth and justice
advocated by Imam Hussein, peace be upon him. While the Arbaeen
commemoration reminds us of the Imam's exploits and sacrifices, it also reminds
us that the path to unity begins with recognising diversity, respecting
differences, working to bring people together, and rebuilding bridges of love among
all Muslims.
The
impact of the Arbaeen commemoration transcends time and space. It
remains a beacon illuminating the path of unity and peaceful coexistence,
calling on the Islamic nation to draw inspiration from the values of Imam
Hussein in building a future of security, love, and justice for all. Let the
unity of the nation be the most prominent theme for the next generation,
inspired by the Imam's lessons and imbued with the spirit of brotherhood and
tolerance, so that together we may forge a future worthy of the values of our
true religion and the sacrifices of our righteous forefathers.
Unfortunately, many Muslim countries do not follow the principles and
morals of Imam Hussein. Muslims have become scattered. They do not have the
power to protect themselves, let alone protect their oppressed brothers,
especially the Palestinians and the people of Gaza, who have been under the
oppression of the Zionists. For example, the Ministry of Health in Gaza
reported this month ( August 2025 ) that at least 60,138 people have been killed in Gaza. Most
of the victims are civilians, including at least 50% women and children. The Israeli blockade has significantly
contributed to famine and the threat of famine in Gaza. Projections show that
100% of the population is suffering from "high levels of acute food
insecurity," with approximately half a million people suffering
catastrophic levels. Inna lillahi wa
inna ilathi rajioun !!! (To God we belong and to Him we shall return) !!!
1.3 Islamic Resistance Against Injustice and Tyranny
The
nation needs to unite and unify its efforts to build a more stable and
prosperous future. We must take advantage of this occasion to instil in the
hearts of new generations a love of unity and an understanding of Imam
Hussein's stance in resisting injustice, so that they can become an active part
of the process of reform and positive change.
Imam
Hussein (AS) embodied the highest form of sacrifice, as he gave his life in
defence of the values of truth and justice. His sacrifices are a great lesson
for all who seek to support the oppressed: that steadfastness in the truth,
even if the price is one's life and one's family, is one of the greatest ways
to draw closer to Almighty Allah. Thus, it is stated in the Holy Qur’an that “those
who are patient, seeking the countenance of their Lord and establish prayer and
spend from what We have provided them, secretly and publicly, and avert evil
with good - those will have the best outcome of the home. ” In a Prophetic
hadith, it is reported that he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and
his family) said: "The best jihad is to speak the truth in front of an
unjust ruler. "
It
has been narrated from Imam Hussein's (peace be upon him) words that express his
stance against injustice and tyranny, especially in his famous sermon,
emphasising that his goal is to revive religion, establish truth, and resist
injustice. He declared, "I only came out to seek reform in my
grandfather's nation ." Then he raised his voice, saying, "Is there any
supporter who will support us? Is there any helper who will aid us? Is there any
rescuer who will help us?"
1.4 Conclusion
In
conclusion, Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) is not only a historical figure,
but a living symbol of steadfastness in the cause of truth, sacrifice for it,
and defence of the oppressed. He is a living lesson for every Muslim and every
human being who aspires to justice and dignity. His life story reminds us of
the importance of resisting injustice, adhering to principles, and working to
establish justice by all legitimate means. It is an eternal message that
illuminates the paths of generations and calls for unity and standing up against
the oppressors.
We
ask Allah to guide us to support the truth, to make us among the supporters of
His religion, and to help us resist injustice, as Imam Hussein (AS) did. He is
the Guardian of this and is able to do it.
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