The first pilgrim to Karbala: Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari and the first Arba’een

Forty days after the tragedy of Karbala, one elderly companion began a journey that would become a symbol of love and devotion for generations.

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travelled to Karbala, the land where Imam Hussain (as) and his companions had been martyred. Despite his advanced age and blindness, his love for the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww) gave him the strength to make the journey.

His path was not one of power or recognition. It was a journey of loyalty, remembrance, and love for the Ahlulbayt (as).

When Jabir reached the grave of Imam Hussain (as), he offered his salaam and mourned the tragedy of Ashura. His visit became the first known Arba’een pilgrimage, beginning a tradition of remembrance that continues with millions of believers around the world today.

A journey of love

After the events of Ashura, Karbala became a symbol of sacrifice, faith, and standing for truth.

Forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travelled from Medina to Karbala to visit the grave of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww).

Jabir was a respected companion of the Prophet (saww) and had reached an advanced age. Historical accounts mention that he had lost his eyesight, yet his devotion to Imam Hussain (as) remained stronger than any physical challenge.

When he arrived at Karbala, he was guided to the resting place of Imam Hussain (as). There, he offered his salaam, remembered his sacrifice, and mourned the tragedy that had taken place.

His journey reminds believers that true love is shown through action, commitment, and perseverance.

The first Arba’een pilgrimage

Jabir’s visit to Karbala became the first known Arba’een pilgrimage.

Arba’een marks forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as) on Ashura. Each year, millions of believers travel to Karbala to honour his sacrifice, remember his message, and renew their connection with the values he defended.

What began with one companion visiting the grave of Imam Hussain (as) has become one of the largest gatherings of remembrance in the world.

Every step taken towards Karbala reflects the same devotion shown by Jabir: love for the Ahlulbayt (as), loyalty to justice, and commitment to truth.

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari: A companion of the Prophet (saww)

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari was among the respected companions of the Prophet Muhammad (saww).

Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to preserving the teachings of Islam and remained connected to the family of the Prophet (saww). His journey to Karbala showed that his love and support for the Ahlulbayt (as) extended beyond words.

At a time when many had failed to stand with Imam Hussain (as), Jabir travelled to honour his sacrifice and preserve his memory.

His example teaches believers that loyalty is demonstrated through action, especially during difficult times.

A legacy that lives on

The journey of Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari continues to inspire believers more than fourteen centuries later.

Arba’een is more than a physical journey to Karbala. It is a spiritual commitment to the values Imam Hussain (as) gave his life to protect: justice, dignity, compassion, and standing against oppression.

The millions who walk towards Karbala today continue the tradition that began with Jabir’s visit, carrying the message of Imam Hussain (as) across generations.

His journey reminds us that remembrance must inspire action. The lessons of Karbala continue when believers serve others and stand for what is right.

Lessons for believers today

Jabir’s journey teaches us that sincere devotion requires effort and sacrifice.

He did not allow his age, blindness, or the distance between Madinah and Karbala to prevent him from honouring Imam Hussain (as). His example reminds us that love for the Ahlulbayt (as) is expressed through commitment and action.

Today, believers can continue this message by supporting vulnerable communities, helping those facing hardship, and bringing compassion into the lives of others.

The spirit of Imam Hussain (as) remains alive whenever we work to protect dignity and justice.

Continue the journey of Hussain (as)

The journey to Karbala began with one believer taking a step towards Imam Hussain (as).

Today, every act of kindness continues that journey.

At The Zahra Trust, we are inspired by the values Imam Hussain (as) sacrificed everything to protect: mercy, justice, and dignity. Through humanitarian aid, emergency support, and assistance for vulnerable communities, we work to bring hope and relief to those who need it most.

This Muharram and Arba’een, honour the legacy of Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari by turning remembrance into action. Your support can help carry forward the message of Imam Hussain (as) and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Frequently asked questions

Who was the first pilgrim to Karbala?

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari is widely recognised as the first known pilgrim to visit the grave of Imam Hussain (as) after the tragedy of Karbala. He travelled to Karbala forty days after Ashura, beginning the tradition of Arba’een remembrance.

Why did Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travel to Karbala?

Jabir travelled to Karbala because of his deep love and devotion for Imam Hussain (as). Despite his advanced age and blindness, he wanted to visit the grave of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww) and honour his sacrifice.

What is Arba’een?

Arba’een marks forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as). It is a time when millions of believers gather in remembrance and make pilgrimage to Karbala.

Why is the Arba’een pilgrimage important?

The Arba’een pilgrimage represents love, loyalty, remembrance, and commitment to the message of Imam Hussain (as). It continues the tradition begun by Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari after Ashura.

What happened when Jabir reached the grave of Imam Hussain (as)?

According to historical accounts, Jabir offered his salaam to Imam Hussain (as), mourned his sacrifice, and expressed his devotion at his resting place.

What can we learn from Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari?

Jabir’s journey teaches believers that true love for the Ahlulbayt (as) is shown through action, loyalty, and perseverance. His example encourages us to continue the values of Imam Hussain (as) through compassion and service.

How can we honour Imam Hussain’s (as) legacy today?

We can honour Imam Hussain’s (as) legacy by standing for justice, supporting those in need, and serving humanity with compassion. Through charitable giving and acts of kindness, we continue the values that inspired the journey to Karbala.