Shiite Muslims observe Muharram and Ashoura mourning period
6 reported
Shiite Muslims in the U.S. and worldwide have been observing a period of mourning leading to the day of Ashoura, which marks the seventh-century killing of Hussein, a grandson of Prophet Muhammad. The annual commemorations are observed on the 10th day of the month of Muharram in the lunar-based Islamic calendar, viewed by Shiites as a symbol of struggle against injustice and tyranny. This year, Muharram and Ashoura follow the war in Iran and an interim deal to end it, while in Lebanon many Shiites have been marking Muharram after the devastation inflicted during the war between Israel and Hezbollah. In the U.S., Shiites of various backgrounds gather for assemblies featuring recitations of the Quran, elegies, lamentations, and lectures. Some communities also organize blood drives during the commemorations, a practice described as a more modern phenomenon. Around the world, mourning rituals can include rhythmic chest-thumping, public processions, and controversial self-flagellation practices.
What’s reported
Shiite Muslims observe a period of mourning leading to Ashoura, marking the seventh-century killing of Hussein, grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
Ashoura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram in the lunar-based Islamic calendar.
This year’s observances follow the war in Iran and an interim deal to end it, as well as the war between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
In the U.S., Shiites gather for assemblies with Quran recitations, elegies, lamentations, and lectures.
Some communities organize blood drives during Muharram, a more modern phenomenon according to Noor Zehra Zaidi.
Mourning rituals can include rhythmic chest-thumping, public processions, and self-flagellation, which is controversial among Shiites.
Key figures
Noor Zehra Zaidi, assistant professor of history at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Adam Almaleky, team leader with Who is Hussain in Michigan
Sakina Ali, 23-year-old attendee in Texas
Mustafa Jafri, physician and board director at Masjid-e-Ali in New Jersey
Sources: abcnews.com
