٢٠ صفر الأربعين ٢٠٢٥: تكريم حضرة الإمام الحسين (عليه السلام)

The 20th day of Safar marks a deeply significant occasion for millions of Muslims worldwide, particularly within the Shia community—Chehlum, or Arbaeen (الأربعين). This day is a powerful commemoration rooted in the rich tapestry of Islamic history, honoring the unparalleled sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) (حضرة الإمام الحسين عليه السلام), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) (النبي محمد صلى الله عليه وآله)، and his steadfast companions who faced martyrdom on the plains of Karbala in 61 AH (680 CE). The tradition of Arbaeen, the “fortieth,” refers to the completion of forty days of mourning, a period that holds unique spiritual resonance and finds its basis in the Quran, Sunnah, and the heritage of Ahlul Bayt (عليهم السلام).

The 20th of Safar is not only an occasion for the remembrance and mourning of tragedy but also a time for reflection, spiritual introspection, and reaffirmation of timeless Islamic values. This blog, presented by Momineen Quran Center, explores the profound significance of Chehlum, supported by trusted Shia sources, reference to relevant Quranic verses, and real-world lessons for the global Ummah.

The Historical Significance of Chehlum in Shia Islam

الأهمية التاريخية للأربعين في الإسلام الشيعي

Imam Hussain (AS) emerged as an everlasting emblem of truth (الحق), justice (العدل), and unwavering devotion (الإيمان الثابت) to the cause of Allah (سبحانه وتعالى), bravely confronting the tyranny and injustice of Yazid’s rule. His martyrdom in Karbala is not merely a historical event, but a paradigmatic stand for justice, sacrifice, and moral fortitude.

The Pioneering Role of Jaber bin Abdullah Al-Ansari

One of the most significant and revered figures in the commemoration of Chehlum is Jaber bin Abdullah Al-Ansari (جابر بن عبد الله الأنصاري), a distinguished companion of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). According to authoritative Shia sources such as Kamil al-Ziyarat (كامل الزيارات) by Ibn Qulawayh and Bihar al-Anwar (بحار الأنوار), Jaber was the first person known to visit the blessed grave of Imam Hussain (AS) in Karbala on the day of Arbaeen, 20th Safar.

Jaber made this historic pilgrimage in the year 61 AH, traveling from Medina to Karbala despite old age and impaired vision, guided by his loyal companion Atiya ibn Sa’d al-Awfi. Upon reaching the banks of the Euphrates, Jaber performed ritual ablution, dressed in pure garments, and proceeded with deep reverence and sorrow toward the grave of Imam Hussain (AS). With tears filling his eyes, he recited salutations and prayers, demonstrating the utmost love and loyalty to the grandson of the Prophet (PBUH).

As narrated:

دخل جابر بن عبد الله الأنصاري على قبر الحسين بن علي (عليه السلام) فغسل، ولبس ثوبين طاهرين، ثم مشى حتى وقف على القبر، فكبّر ثلاثًا ثم خرّ مغشيًا عليه من شدة البكاء.

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“Jaber bin Abdullah al-Ansari arrived at the grave of Imam Hussain (AS), performed ghusl, donned clean clothes, advanced deliberately until he stopped at the sacred grave, uttered takbeer three times, and fell unconscious out of grief and love.”
(Kamil al-Ziyarat, p. 268; Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 98, p. 329)

Jaber’s visit marked the inception of the Ziyarat tradition and established the spiritual foundation for all subsequent pilgrimages to Karbala. His actions underscore the importance of remembering and honoring the martyrs. Later, on the same day, the surviving members of Ahlul Bayt (عليهم السلام), led by Imam Zain-ul-Abideen (AS) and Lady Zainab (سلام الله عليها), are reported to have arrived in Karbala and joined Jaber in mourning and prayer. This event signaled the transformation of Arbaeen into a time of communal reflection, reverence, and allegiance to the truth upheld by Imam Hussain (AS).

In Shia tradition, Jaber bin Abdullah Al-Ansari is remembered as a symbol of unwavering love and dedication to the Prophet’s family. His first Ziyarat on Arbaeen is commemorated every year and serves as the origin of the millions-strong Arbaeen pilgrimage today.

The Martyrdom in Karbala: A Defining Moment

On the 10th of Muharram (Ashura), Imam Hussain (AS), his family, and companions faced unthinkable hardship—enduring thirst, hunger, and the threat of annihilation for upholding the sanctity of Islam. The days that followed left the survivors, mostly women and children—led by Sayyida Zainab (سلام الله عليها) and Imam Zain-ul-Abideen (عليه السلام)—in captivity, enduring trials in the court of Yazid, only strengthening the cause Imam Hussain (AS) championed.

Chehlum, forty days after Ashura, became the formal marker for the community to gather, mourn, and renew their pledge to stand for these ideals. Historical accounts in authoritative Shia texts—such as Bihar al-Anwar (بحار الأنوار), especially Volume 82, and Kamil al-Ziyarat (كامل الزيارات) by Ibn Qulawayh—explain how Jaber ibn Abdullah Al-Ansari (جابر بن عبد الله الأنصاري), a revered companion of the Prophet (PBUH), was among the first pilgrims to visit the blessed grave of Imam Hussain (AS) on Arbaeen. According to these sources, he was later joined by the returning caravan of Ahlul Bayt, transforming Chehlum into an occasion of both profound grief and enduring spiritual hope.

Importance of Forty Days in Islamic Tradition

The significance of the number forty in Islamic tradition is widely attested:

• Prophet Musa (Moses) (عليه السلام) spent forty nights at Mount Sinai (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:51, Surah Al-A’raf 7:142).
• The age of prophethood for many messengers, including the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is recognized at forty.
• Classical narrations emphasize that the effects of mourning and remembrance reach their spiritual culmination at forty days.

قال رسول الله (صلى الله عليه وآله): “الأربعين من علامات المؤمن: زيارة الحسين (عليه السلام) في الأربعين.”
The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “Among the signs of a believer are: the visitation (Ziyarat) of Imam Hussain (AS) on Arbaeen.”
(Wasā’il al-Shī‘a, vol. 10, p. 393)

The first Chehlum became a pivotal ritual, evolving over centuries into a global event that keeps the message of Karbala vibrant and ever-relevant.

Quranic Insights on Martyrdom and Remembrance

رؤى قرآنية حول الشهادة والذكرى

The Quran places immense value on the sacrifice of martyrs (الشهداء) and the act of remembering their example. This spiritual remembrance is both an honoring of the martyrs themselves and a source of inspiration for the living.

Quranic Verses on Martyrdom

• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:154)
• • > “And do not say of those who are killed in the way of Allah, ‘They are dead.’ Rather, they are alive, but you perceive [it] not.”
  • > وَلا تَقُولُوا لِمَن يُقْتَلُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ أَمْوَاتٌ ۚ بَلْ أَحْيَاءٌ وَلَٰكِن لَّا تَشْعُرُونَ (البقرة: 154)

This verse reinforces the idea that the martyrs of Karbala, with Imam Hussain (AS) at the forefront, possess a life far more profound than physical existence—their legacy, teachings, and inspiration live eternally.

• Surah Al-Imran (3:169-171)
• • > “Think not of those who are slain in God’s way as dead. Nay, they live, finding their sustenance in the presence of their Lord.”
  • > وَلَا تَحْسَبَنَّ الَّذِينَ قُتِلُوا فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ أَمْوَاتًا ۚ بَلْ أَحْيَاءٌ عِندَ رَبِّهِمْ يُرْزَقُونَ (آل عمران: 169)

These verses provide powerful solace and inspiration for all who visit the shrine of Imam Hussain (AS) or commemorate his Chehlum, affirming that martyrdom is rewarded with a spiritual life in Allah’s nearness.

Quranic Reminders of Reflection and Remembrance

• Surah Maryam (19:58)
• • > “When the verses of the Most Compassionate were recited to them, they fell in prostration and wept.”
  • > إِذَا تُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْهِمْ آيَاتُ الرَّحْمَٰنِ خَرُّوا سُجَّدًا وَبُكِيًّا (مريم: 58)
• Surah Al-Dhariyat (51:55)
• • > “And remind, for indeed, the reminder benefits the believers.”
  • > وَذَكِّرْ فَإِنَّ الذِّكْرَى تَنفَعُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ (الذاريات: 55)

Such verses inspire Muslims to engage in gatherings of remembrance (majalis) and evoke a spirit of humility, reflection, and resolve that is central to Chehlum traditions.

Why Arbaeen is a Global Phenomenon

لماذا الأربعين ظاهرة عالمية؟

In the modern era, Arbaeen stands as the world’s largest annual public gathering—a spiritual pilgrimage that has, in recent years, attracted more than 20 million people from all continents to the blessed land of Karbala. The Arbaeen walk (مسيرة الأربعين) is a vivid demonstration of unity, spiritual longing, and collective resistance against all forms of injustice.

The Arbaeen Walk: Symbolism and Participation

The journey to Karbala often involves walking for days or even hundreds of kilometers. Pilgrims—young and old, men, women, and even children—travel from cities such as Najaf, Basra, or even further. Along the way, locals provide free water, food, medical care, and shelter—embodying the very ethos of service and sacrifice exemplified by Imam Hussain (AS).

“Millions march upon your shrine, O Hussain,
Their feet blistered but hearts alive with love,
Answering your call for truth and justice,
Through every hardship, they walk—
For You taught us that dignity is worth every trial.”

The sheer scale of this event, despite facing threats and challenges, speaks to the enduring power of Imam Hussain’s (AS) message.

Chehlum’s Impact on Communities Worldwide

Even for those who cannot travel to Karbala, Arbaeen is commemorated beyond Iraq, in countries including Iran, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, Bahrain, Africa, Europe, and North America. Processions, majalis, lectures, blood drives, and charity events are organized, often with Muslims and non-Muslims alike participating to honor the enduring message of Karbala.

قال الإمام الصادق (عليه السلام): “من زار الحسين عارفًا بحقه كتب الله له ثواب ألف حجة وألف عمرة.”
Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) said: “Whoever visits Hussain (AS) knowing his right, Allah will write for him the reward of a thousand Hajj and a thousand Umrah.”
(Kamil al-Ziyarat, p. 324)

Rituals and Practices Observed During 20 Safar

الطقوس والممارسات في العشرين من صفر

Across the globe, believers honor 20 Safar through a range of spiritual, educational, and charitable rituals, each rooted in Shia sources and traditions.

1. Majalis (Gatherings) | المجالس الحسينية

Majalis are held in mosques, husayniyyas, homes, schools, and even online. Learned scholars and orators recount the events of Karbala, explore the virtues of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions, and inspire the audience toward self-betterment and justice. Poetic recitations (marsiyas, nohas, lamentations) evoke the emotional depth of the tragedy and foster a sense of communal empathy.

• Majalis often include children’s and women’s sessions, nurturing the values of Karbala from one generation to the next.
• Storytelling and reflection on the roles of Sayyida Zainab (سلام الله عليها), Hazrat Abbas (عليه السلام), and other heroes of Karbala are central.
• References for majalis content can be found in Luhuf by Ibn Tawus and Nafasul Mahmum by Sheikh Abbas Qummi.

2. Ziyarat Arbaeen | زيارة الأربعين

Recitation of Ziyarat Arbaeen, either in person at the shrine or at home, is strongly recommended for all believers:

“السلام على ولي الله وحبيبه، السلام على خليل الله ونجيبه، السلام على صفي الله وابن صفية…”
“Peace be upon the friend and beloved of Allah, peace be upon the intimate and chosen of Allah, peace be upon the pure one and son of the pure.”

This ziyarat, mentioned specifically in Mafatih al-Jinan (مفاتيح الجنان) and Tahdhib al-Ahkam, connects the reciter with the legacy of the Ahlul Bayt (عليهم السلام). Many also recite passages from Du’a Nudba, Du’a Tawassul, and reflect on the history and virtues recorded in authentic ahadith.

3. Charity and Acts of Kindness | الصدقة والأعمال الخيرية

The essence of Imam Hussain’s (AS) mission is manifest in acts of kindness, service, and helping those in need.

• On 20 Safar, many distribute food and water, organize blood donation drives, and extend support to orphans and the poor.
• Volunteer initiatives and public service, inspired by the legacy of Ahlul Bayt, are widely reported in Shia communities, echoing the Prophet’s hadith: “He who lessens the suffering of a believer, Allah will lessen his suffering in this life and the hereafter.” (Kanz al-Ummal)

4. Processions and Symbolic Walks | المواكب والمسيرات الرمزية

Where possible, processions and symbolic walks are organized to emulate the tradition of ziyarah and solidarity. Mourning processions (azadari), often accompanied by lamenting and poetry, are a hallmark of Shia religious practice.

5. Educational and Qur’an-Centric Events | الفعاليات التعليمية والقرآنية

Communities, especially educational centers like Momineen Quran Center, highlight Qur’anic themes of standing up for justice and honoring the righteous. Programs may include:

• Qur’anic recitation competitions
• Lectures on Quranic verses relevant to the story of Karbala
• Online campaigns sharing daily lessons from the life and sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS)

Chehlum in Modern Times

الأربعين في العصر الحديث

With the growing influence of global communication, Chehlum’s resonance extends ever further, uniting people across continents. In recent years, Arbaeen commemorations have addressed contemporary challenges such as war, social injustice, poverty, and displacement—making the message of Karbala perpetually timely.

Modern Reflections on the Lessons of Karbala

• Many human rights activists and historians recognize Karbala as a symbol for standing against tyranny and defending the oppressed everywhere, regardless of religious background.
• Chehlum serves as a platform for interfaith dialogue and community service, where the values of compassion, sacrifice, and social justice are universalized.

“Every day is Ashura, every land is Karbala.”
“كل يوم عاشوراء، كل أرض كربلاء.”

This Shia proverb reminds us that the lessons of sacrifice, dignity, and struggle against oppression are relevant in our daily lives and every corner of the world.

Lessons from Imam Hussain’s (AS) Sacrifice

دروس من تضحية الإمام الحسين (عليه السلام)

The immortal legacy of Karbala carries lessons for all of humanity:

1. Upholding Truth and Justice | التمسك بالحق والعدل

Imam Hussain (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to falsehood, even when faced with certain death. His example teaches that standing for what is right must come before personal safety or material comfort.

“إن كان دين محمد لم يستقم إلا بقتلي، يا سيوف خذيني.”

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“If the religion of Muhammad would not endure except by my killing, then O swords, take me!”

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(Attributed to Imam Hussain (AS), Maqtal al-Hussain)

2. Faith in the Face of Adversity | الثبات في وجه المحن

Karbala teaches us that trials and adversity are part of the journey towards truth. Imam Hussain’s (AS) resilience is echoed by Zainab (سلام الله عليها) and the steadfastness of the Ahlul Bayt—even as captives.

3. Compassion, Charity, and Service | الرحمة والصدقة والخدمة

Giving charity, serving humanity, and extending kindness are central elements in following the teachings of Imam Hussain (AS).

4. Unity Through Collective Faith | الوحدة من خلال الإيمان الجماعي

Arbaeen unites Muslims and people of different backgrounds behind a common banner of justice, truth, and love for the Prophet’s family. The spirit of walking together toward Karbala is a metaphor for walking together toward a better, just society.

5. Remembrance as a Source of Power | الذكرى كمصدر للقوة

The ongoing remembrance of Karbala and Imam Hussain (AS) nurtures hope, strengthens identity, and renews the resolve to stand against all forms of injustice in today’s world.

Final Reflections

تأملات أخيرة

The Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) is more than a religious event; it’s a spiritual, emotional, and intellectual beacon for humanity. On 20 Safar, millions commemorate his sacrifice, experiencing a renewed sense of faith and determination to walk his path of truth and justice.

Throughout centuries, the story of Imam Hussain (AS) in Karbala has transcended time and place—uniting the hearts of believers who yearn for a world filled with dignity, freedom, and moral clarity. Today, Arbaeen stands as both a living heritage and a challenge to humanity: to follow the path of unwavering truth, to serve others selflessly, and to keep the flame of justice alive.

إن أربعين حضرة الإمام الحسين (عليه السلام) أكثر من مجرد حدث ديني؛ فهو منارة روحية وعاطفية وفكرية للإنسانية. في العشرين من صفر، يحيي الملايين ذكرى تضحيته، وينعمون بإيمان متجدد وعزم على السير في طريق الحق والعدل.

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May Allah grant us all the ability to walk in the footsteps of Imam Hussain (AS), to embody truth, justice, and mercy, and to remember always that the sacrifices of Karbala guide us toward a better world.

اللهم ارزقنا في الدنيا زيارة الحسين (عليه السلام) وفي الآخرة شفاعته.

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References:

1. Bihar al-Anwar – العلامة المجلسي، بحار الأنوار
2. Mafatih al-Jinan – الشيخ عباس القمي، مفاتيح الجنان
3. Kamil al-Ziyarat – ابن قولويه، كامل الزيارات (See especially the narrations on the Ziyarat of Arbaeen by Jaber bin Abdullah Al-Ansari)
4. Nafasul Mahmum – الشيخ عباس القمي، نفس المهموم
5. Wasā’il al-Shī‘a – الشيخ الحر العاملي، وسائل الشيعة
6. The Holy Qur’an – القرآن الكريم

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Written for Momineen Quran Center | مركز المؤمنين للقرآن الكريم