The History of the Arbaeen Walk and the Challenges
The Arbaeen walk has historically been recognized as one of the greatest religious traditions in the Islamic world and a symbol of unity and solidarity among Shia Muslims. This magnificent event, which annually attracts millions from Iran, Iraq, and other countries of the world to the holy city of Karbala, is not only a display of love, devotion, and loyalty to the sacred presence of Imam Hussain (PBUH) and his loyal companions but also one of the highly recommended practices in Shia culture. It is narrated from Imam Sadiq (PBUH), who said: “Whoever walks on foot to visit Imam Hussain (PBUH), For every step he takes, Allah will write a thousand rewards for each step, erase a thousand of his sins, and elevate him by a thousand ranks.”[1] In another narration from Imam Sadiq ( PBUH): “Whoever visits Imam Hussain (PBUH) on foot, The Almighty Allah will reward him as if he has freed a servant from the descendants of Prophet Ismail (PBUH).”[2]
However, the Arbaeen walk has not always been simple or easily accessible throughout history. A historical review of this popular event clearly shows that the Arbaeen walk, within the context of the political, social, and security changes of each era has repeatedly faced many ups and downs, restrictions, and even serious prohibitions. From the oppressive eras of the Umayyads and Abbasids to the support of the Buyids and Safavids, from the years of suppression under the Ottoman rule and the Ba’athist regime in Iraq to the openings that followed Saddam’s fall, each historical period has played a unique role in shaping the destiny of this great tradition.
At many points in history, political powers have attempted to prevent the rise of Shia religious traditions by imposing restrictions, bans, and intense pressure. Yet, the love for Imam Hussain (PBUH), along with the spirit of resistance, and the people’s loyalty to the ideals of Ashura have ensured that this authentic movement not only did not fade away, but rather continued more gloriously and expansively. In fact the historical Study of the Arbaeen walk reveals the persistence of a collective identity rooted in faith, resilience, and a spirit of freedom—a precious essence that has emerged from hardship and trails and been passed down through generations.
In this article we aims to explore, through an historical and analytical perspective, the various aspects of the Arbaeen walk and the obstacles it has faced from the dawn of Islam to the present day. In order to better understand the significance and impact of this great tradition on the identity, culture, and social cohesion of the Shia community. Along the way, we will also address the following key questions:
– What have been the most significant obstacles and restrictions faced by the Arbaeen walk throughout history, and how have these challenges affected the form and scope of this tradition?
– What impact have the policies and actions of governments had on the condition of the Arbaeen walk throughout history??
– What factors have contributed to either the reduction or the increase of freedom in holding the Arbaeen walk in different eras?
The Arbaeen Walk in the Era of Oppression: The Silent Resistance of the Shia During the Umayyad and Abbasid Periods
From the very beginning, the Arbaeen walk faced numerous hardships and threats. In the first two centuries after Ashura, the political and security atmosphere dominating the Islamic world, especially in Iraq, was such that any gathering or mourning that recalled Imam Hussain’s uprising was harshly suppressed. Yet despite all threats, the Shia never abandoned keeping alive the memory of Karbala and their love for the Imams (peace be upon them). This resilience has preserved the identity and culture of Shia Islam to this day.
The Arbaeen Walk During the Umayyad Era
After the tragedy of Ashura, the Umayyad regime not only denied and suppressed the remembrance of Imam Hussain (PBUH) but also imposed strict laws prohibiting any form of gathering, mourning, pilgrimage, or travel to his shrine. During this period, even speaking of Karbala and the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) could pose deadly risks and severe punishments for the Shias. Numerous historical documents and narrations testify that pilgrims traveled to Karbala secretly, often alone, silently under the cover of night, to keep the flame of Hussain’s memory alive. Some of them were arrested at the shrine or on their way back and faced various penalties. the Arbaeen walk during this era was less a public, collective tradition and more a symbol of defiance and silent resistance against tyrannical rulers.
Examining the History of the Arbaeen Walk During the Abbasid Era
With the shift of power to the Abbasids dynasty, the structure of suppression changed, but the fundamental hostility toward the Arbaeen pilgrimage remained. Although the Abbasids at times raised the slogans of support for the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) to rival the Umayyads, once their rule was firmly established, they too viewed Shia traditions as a threat to their legitimacy. Historical records document harsh actions by caliphs such as Mansur Al- Dawaniqi and Al-Mutawakkil, who directly ordered the prevention of pilgrimage and destruction of Imam Hussain’s (PBUH) shrine, they placed the roads leading to Karbala under military surveillance. Pilgrims had to travel in groups or secretly, often under great fear and anxiety.
However, there are also instances where some moderate caliphs imposed less control, and in certain local areas, conditions slightly eased, but overall, repression continued to overshadow the Arbaeen traditions. Despite this, the pilgrimage although hidden and limited remained alive and played a crucial role in shaping the Shia identity and cohesion.
The Dawn of a New Era for Arbaeen: From the Tolerance of Buyids to the Support of Safavid State
The history of the Arbaeen walk has seen many ups and downs. Reaching periods in which new opportunities emerged for the expression and revival of this tradition. As the era of oppression and restrictions under the Umayyads and Abbasids came to an end, and the age of Shia governments began, a new chapter unfolded in the history of Arbaeen pilgrimage. The rise to power of the Buyid dynasty and later the establishment of the Safavid state were both major turning points that provided a more favorable environment for the practice of Shia traditions, particularly the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
These periods – despite their political and social differences played a decisive role in the stabilization and expansion of Arbaeen practices, to the extent that they can be regarded as the beginning of the institutionalization of the Arbaeen pilgrimage within the Shia Community. In the following we will explain the circumstances and developments related to the Arbaeen pilgrimage during the Buyid and Safavid periods.
History of the Arbaeen Walk: The Buyid Era
With the rise of the Shia Buyid dynasty in parts of Iran and Iraq, the situation regarding the Arbaeen pilgrimage underwent a significant change for the first time. Unlike the previous periods—when the pilgrimage was always accompanied by fear, anxiety, and severe restrictions— in this era the circumstances became somewhat easier for those interested in visiting Imam Hussain (PBUH).
The Buyid government, which had a clear Shia leaning, showed greater tolerance and support for religious events such as Ashura and Arbaeen. In fact, the Arbaeen pilgrimage was officially acknowledged to some extent during this period, and the freedom of pilgrims increased. For the first time, people could perform the Arbaeen walk more peacefully, although still without full support, and to keep the memory of the martyrs of Karbala alive. Although there were still some restrictions due to social conditions or some local rulers, this era was considered a significant opening for Arbaeen pilgrims throughout the history compared to the Umayyad and Abbasid periods.
The History of the Arbaeen Walk: The Safavid Era
During the Safavid era—when Shi’ism became the official religion of Iran—the situation regarding the Arbaeen pilgrimage changed dramatically. The Safavid state not only permitted the free and widespread observance of Ashura and Arbaeen events but also actively supported and sponsored these traditions and encouraged the Arbaeen pilgrimage and other mourning traditions.
In this historical juncture, restrictions were completely lifted, and we are even witnessing huge marches and organized mourning groups on various routes towards Karbala and other sacred sites. The Arbaeen walk during this period became a social and religious symbol, playing an important role in uniting Shias and establishing their religious identity.
The widespread presence of people in the Arbaeen walk, along with official support and government facilities, caused this tradition to become more widespread and institutionalized than ever before; In fact, the Safavid era is considered a turning point in the history of the Arbaeen Walk. Because for the first time in centuries of pressure and restrictions, this event was able to be held freely and magnificently, and further strengthening its roots in Iranian and Islamic culture.
Continuation of the Arbaeen Tradition; Overcoming the Political Barriers of the Ottoman Era and the Border Challenges of the Qajar Period
With the passage of history and the transfer of power among dynasties and empires, the observance of the Arbaeen pilgrimage has always been influenced by the political, religious, and social conditions of that era. After the Safavid era and shifts in regional dynamics, the Ottoman and Qajar periods each marked a significant and turbulent chapter in the history of this tradition. Specific political and border conditions at times created opportunities for easier observance of the ceremony, and at other times imposed new restrictions and obstacles, becoming a test for the stability of people’s faith and devotion.
In the following, the status of Arbaeen pilgrimage during the Ottoman and Qajar periods will be examined in more detail in order to better understand the process of continuity and resistance of this tradition in the face of historical obstacles and transformations.
The History of the Arbaeen Walk: The Ottoman Era
Continuing the historical review of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the period of Ottoman rule over Iraq (from the 10th century AH to the early 20th century AD) holds particular importance. During this period, the Arbaeen pilgrimage maintained its status as a deeply rooted religious tradition, but it was not always held freely. Ottoman government policies often shifted in response to the political and religious conditions of the region. At times of sectarian tension between Shi’a and Sunni communities or during political and social unrest, severe restrictions were imposed on the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
In many years, the Ottoman government in order to control the population and prevent large religious gatherings, blocked the routes leading to Karbala, especially during the Arbaeen, or by deploying military forces and imposing strict laws, prevented pilgrims from freely holding the Arbaeen Walk. Sometimes, following certain events the Arbaeen event was completely banned, making pilgrims walk the routes secretly and in small groups. This particular situation has been one of the most serious obstacles to the Arbaeen pilgrimage throughout the history, but of course it has never been able to completely halt this spiritual tradition.
The History of the Arbaeen Walk: The Qajar Period
In the Qajar era, although the general atmosphere for the Shia within Iran was more welcoming and supportive, problems such as border crossings and security concerns continued to cast a shadow over the observance of the Arbaeen pilgrimage. Iranian pilgrims had to cross the Iraqi border to participate in the Arbaeen pilgrimage and visit the shrine of Imam Hussain (PBUH), which often involved diplomatic restrictions and even dangers. Despite these difficulties the enthusiasm of the Iranians to attend the Arbaeen event never diminished. And a significant number of lovers of the Ahl al-Bayt traveled long distances on foot to reach Karbala every year.
In fact, the presence of Iranian pilgrims in the Arbaeen walk throughout the history of the Qajar era not only contributed to the prosperity of this religious tradition, but also strengthened the cultural and religious ties between Shias in Iran and Iraq. Although restrictions and threats existed even during this period, the spirit of sacrifice and solidarity turned the Arbaeen Walk into a great popular movement; such that borders and government pressures could not prevent the continuation of this valuable tradition throughout history.
The History of the Arbaeen Walk: During and After the Ba’ath Party’s rule in Iraq
The entry into the 20th century and the political, social, and security transformations of this century mark the beginning of a new era in the fate of the Arbaeen Walk throughout history. At this period, Iraq, as the main host of this great event, went through turbulent and challenging years; years that each had a profound impact on how the pilgrimage was held, and even the very existence of Arbaeen walk. From the formation of the new Iraqi government after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire to the numerous changes in rulers and political systems, religious traditions, especially the Arbaeen pilgrimage, have always been a mirror of the country’s conflicts, crises, and at times new opportunities.
In the following, we will discuss two fundamental and influential periods in the contemporary life of the Arbaeen walk; first, the era of suppression and repression under the Ba’ath regime and Saddam Hussein, and then the new chapter that began after the fall of this regime, turning the Arbaeen walk into one of largest religious gatherings in the world.
In examining the history of the Arbaeen walk, one of the most critical and bitter periods dates back to the time of Iraqi Ba’ath Party, particularly during the Saddam Hussein era; After the Ba’athist coup and Saddam’s consolidation of power, the government’s approach towards Iraqi Shias, and in particular their religious traditions, became very strict and hostile. During this time, the Arbaeen walk was faced with the most severe restrictions and pressures. Any form of gathering, mourning, or collective movement toward the shrine of Imam Hussain (PBUH) was explicitly prohibited. The Ba’ath regime, under the pretext of maintaining security and countering threats, effectively suppressed the Arbaeen walk and criminalized any sign of its observance. Thousands of Shias were arrested, tortured, and even executed for attempting to participate in the Arbaeen walk.
Political repression and atmosphere of terror and fear overshadowed the Arbaeen during this period. but despite this, many lovers of the Ahl al- Bayt (peace be upon them) traveled the Karbala route in secrecy, risking their lives and money, to keep the tradition of the Arbaeen alive. This period is considered the peak of pressure and suppression against one of the most important Shia traditions in history.
After the fall of the Ba’ath regime in 2003, a new chapter began in Iraq’s history, especially in the revival of religious traditions in the country. After years of suppression and prohibition, the Arbaeen walk once again found its way to prominence and quickly became one of the most spectacular religious gatherings in the world.
In the years since 2003, we have witnessed an exponential growth in the number of pilgrims and participants in the Arbaeen walk. This event, which is a symbol of love and devotion to Imam Hussein (PBUH) and his companions, is held annually with the participation of millions of people from all over the world, including Iran, the Persian Gulf states, Europe, America, and Asia. Today, the Arbaeen walk is not only recognized as an ancient tradition but also as a unique social and political phenomenon that showcases the unity and solidarity of the Islamic nation.
This massive gathering which is the result of tireless efforts of millions of devoted lovers, has provided an opportunity to promote a culture of sacrifice, resistance, and justice, and has become a symbol of Shia identity in the modern world. The Arbaeen walk in has reached its peak of prosperity and expansion in modern times and continues to face both new challenges and opportunities, which will be addressed in future articles and analyses.
Tariq al-Ulama (The Path of the Scholars); A Historical and Spiritual Route of the Arbaeen Walk
Tariq al-Ulama, also known as Tariq al-Furat (The Euphrates Path), is one of the oldest routes that pilgrims of Imam Hussain (PBUH) have used throughout the history to walk to Karbala. The path earned the title Tariq al-Ulama (Path of the Scholars) due to the frequent passage of prominent religious scholars and clerics over the years. The starting point of this route is the Sahla mosque in the city of Kufa and is known as one of the two main walking routes between Najaf and Karbala.
A distinctive feature of this route is its passage along the Euphrates River and the lush palm groves, which give it a special appearance. In contrast, the main road from Najaf to Karbala is a dry and deserted route that did not have basic facilities for pilgrims on foot for many years. However, along the Tariq al-Ulama route, Shia tribes living along the route would, out of devotion to Imam Hussain, voluntarily host pilgrims and provide them with food and shelter. For this reason, this route which is located along the Euphrates, has attracted the attention of pilgrims and has become more popular.
During the rule of the Ba’ath Party and years of Saddam Hussein’s regime over Iraq, when the Arbaeen walk was banned, this route became a refuge for scholars, clerics, and the public to perform their pilgrimage with better security.
Today, the Arbaeen walk is commonly observed via three main routes: the Kadhimin route, the Hillah route, and Tariq al-Ulama. The Tariq al-Ulama is about 89 kilometers long, and most residents of these areas are farmers and livestock herders. Due to its vegetation, proximity to the river, and pleasant climate, it is considered “the greenest route to Karbala.”
Other features of this route include its relative quietness, peaceful atmosphere, and the absence of the usual crowd and commotion seen along the main Najaf-Karbala route. Unlike the main route, which is marked with numbered poles, Tariq al-Ulama has only scattered signs to guide pilgrims. The Mawakib (rest stations) along this route are mostly set up in the villagers’ homes, where pilgrims are welcomed by locals, which is a manifestation of hospitality and religious culture of the people of these areas.
The Role of Temporary Restrictions in the Dynamics of the Arbaeen Walk
Throughout the long and eventful history of the Arbaeen walk, there have always been temporary and intermittent obstacles, mainly due to security crises or the outbreak of infectious diseases. Although these restrictions sometimes affected the scale and grandeur of the event, they have never been able to permanently stop this ancient and widespread tradition.
Security Crises
In various years, especially in recent decades, Iraq at times faced serious security crises, including terrorist attacks, bombings, and general insecurity, mainly targeting the Arbaeen pilgrims. Although these events posed a serious threat to the health and lives of millions of participants, they repeatedly led the responsible authorities to implement strict security measures or even temporary restrictions in order to protect the lives of pilgrims. In some years, the entrance routes to Karbala were closed, or participation was limited to residents of certain cities. But despite these conditions the people’s love and devotion to Imam Hussain (PBUH) encouraged them to continue the pilgrimage. Once the crises subsided, massive crowds of pilgrims would once again set out for Karbala.
Disease Outbreaks
Another major example of temporary restrictions is the widespread outbreak of infectious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years. In the years when the world was facing the pandemic of this virus, The Iraqi governments and other countries hosting pilgrims imposed strict health restrictions and at times suspended or temporarily halted the Arbaeen walk.
The presence of a large number of pilgrims in one place raised concerns about disease transmission, and some protocols like social distancing, mask-wearing, and even reducing the number of participants have been implemented . Despite this, Arbaeen has shown throughout history that even during major health crises, after the passage of time and crises management, this event has been revived and resumed with the usual enthusiasm and crowd.
In sum, historical experience shows that temporary restrictions, whether due to security threats or widespread disease, have never been able to halt the continuity and grandeur of the Arbaeen walk. Rather, after these obstacles were removed, this tradition contiued with greater strength and enthusiasm, and became a symbol of the perseverance and stability of the followers of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
Throughout history, the Arbaeen walk has been more than just a religious tradition; it has been a powerful symbol of Shia faith, perseverance, and identity. This tradition which has deep roots in Islamic history, has always faced obstacles and restrictions, from political pressures and state bans to security threats and global health crises. Yet, a study of Arbaeen walk’s historical journey shows that the will and love of the Shias for Imam Hussain (PBUH) have never allowed this great tradition to stop.
Although the social and political conditions of each era have influenced the form and scope of the Arbaeen walk, and at times faced serious threats to life, this spiritual movement has no only died down, but has also grown stronger and grandeur with each generation. Throughout the history, the Arbaeen walk has demonstrated a clear manifestation of loyalty, solidarity, and resistance, proving that heartfelt faith can preserve values and traditions beyond the reach of temporary obstacles.
Today, this millions-strong tradition represents not only the culture and history of the Shia but also serves as a model of altruism, collective spirit, and pursuit of justice for the contemporary world. Therefore, a review of the history of the Arbaeen walk through the history and the obstacles it has faced further reveals the importance of preserving and upholding this great tradition and reminds us that the Arbaeen walk has always been a pillar of stability for the identity and cohesion of the Shia community.
[1] Al-Qummi, Abu al-Qasim Ja’far ibn Muhammad ibn Qulawayh (d. 367 AH), Kamil al-Ziyarat, p. 133.
Narrated by: Ali ibn al-Husayn ibn Musa ibn Babawayh and a group (may God have mercy on them), from Sa’d ibn Abdullah, from al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abdullah ibn al-Mughira, from al-Abbas ibn Amir, from Jabir al-Makfuf, from Abi al-Samit who said: I heard Abu Abdullah (Imam Sadiq) say: “Whoever comes to the grave of Hussain (peace be upon him) walking, Allah will record a thousand rewards for each step, erase a thousand sins from him, and raise him a thousand degrees.”
[2] Al-Qummi, Abu al-Qasim Ja’far ibn Muhammad ibn Qulawayh (d. 367 AH), Kamil al-Ziyarat, p. 134.
Narrated by: Muhammad ibn Ja’far al-Qurashi al-Razzaz from his uncle Muhammad ibn al-Husayn ibn Abi al-Khattab, from Ahmad ibn Bashir al-Sarraj, from Abi Sa’id al-Qadi, who said: I heard Abu Abdullah (Imam Sadiq) say: “Whoever visits the grave of Hussain (peace be upon him) walking, for every step he takes and puts down, Allah will grant him the reward of freeing a slave from the children of Ismail.”
Source: https://en.whoisimammahdi.com
