Why Arbaeen is unlike any other journey

Every year, millions of people from around the world take part in the Arbaeen journey, travelling towards Karbala to honour Imam Hussain (as) and remember the sacrifice that continues to inspire generations of believers.

While many journeys involve travelling towards a destination, Arbaeen represents something far greater. It is a journey of faith, love, remembrance, and service. The walk towards Karbala is not undertaken for recognition or personal gain. Instead, pilgrims take each step as an expression of devotion and a commitment to the values Imam Hussain (as) defended.

What makes Arbaeen truly unique is the way it brings together personal spirituality and collective action. People from different cultures, languages, and communities gather with one shared purpose: remembering the message of Karbala and carrying its lessons forward.

The Quran highlights the importance of love for the Prophet’s (saww) family:

“(O Muḥammad [saww], say to your followers,) ‘I do not ask of you any reward for it (i.e., the task of conveying Allah’s [swt] message to you) except love for (my) near relatives.” (42:23)

For many believers, the Arbaeen pilgrimage is one of the most powerful ways to express this love and maintain a connection with the Ahlulbayt (as).

The spiritual significance of the Arbaeen journey

Arbaeen takes place forty days after Ashura, commemorating the conclusion of the mourning period following the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), his family members, and his companions at Karbala.

The pilgrimage provides an opportunity for believers to reflect on the lessons of Karbala and the qualities represented by Imam Hussain (as), including courage, patience, sacrifice, and standing for justice.

For many pilgrims, walking to Karbala is a deeply personal act of worship. The physical effort involved becomes part of the spiritual experience. Walking long distances, facing challenging weather, and continuing despite tiredness all represent dedication to the path of Imam Hussain (as).

However, Arbaeen is not defined only by the challenges pilgrims face. It is equally known for the compassion and generosity experienced throughout the journey.

Along the routes leading to Karbala, countless mawakib provide meals, water, accommodation, medical care, and other support to visitors completely free of charge. This remarkable culture of hospitality reflects the values of selflessness and service that are central to the legacy of Imam Hussain (as).

A journey that brings people together

The scale of Arbaeen is one of its most remarkable features. Millions of pilgrims gather every year, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

Yet, the true beauty of Arbaeen is not only found in the number of people attending. It is found in the unity created among those walking the same path.

Pilgrims from different countries and backgrounds share the same road, the same moments of reflection, and the same goal of reaching Karbala. Differences in language, nationality, age, and social status become less important as people unite through their love for Imam Hussain (as).

This sense of togetherness creates a unique atmosphere. People who may have never met before offer support and kindness to one another. Strangers become companions, and communities come together through acts of generosity and care.

The Quran reminds believers of the importance of honoring what Allah (swt) has made sacred:

“And whosoever venerates the (sacred) symbols of Allah (swt), (that is a good deed, and) that indeed is (the result of) the piety of hearts.” (22:32)

For those participating in Arbaeen, honouring Imam Hussain (as) through this pilgrimage is a meaningful expression of devotion and reverence.

The culture of giving along the path of Hussain (as)

One of the defining features of Arbaeen is the extraordinary level of service offered by volunteers. Across the pilgrimage routes, ordinary people dedicate their time, resources, and efforts to supporting visitors.

Many volunteers prepare food, arrange places to rest, provide assistance to elderly pilgrims, and offer help wherever it is needed. This generosity is offered without expecting anything in return.

The spirit of giving seen during Arbaeen reflects the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (as), where caring for others and easing their difficulties are considered acts of great importance.

The journey to Karbala is not only about remembering what happened centuries ago. It is also about keeping alive the values that Imam Hussain (as) represented.

The importance of visiting Imam Hussain (as) is highlighted in a narration from Imam al-Sadiq (as).

The Imam (as) is reported to have said: “Whoever comes to the grave of Aba Abdullah (as) recognizing his right, Allah (swt) forgives his past and future sins.”(Wasail al-Shia, v.14, s.8, ch.37, h.19481)

For believers, visiting the shrine of Imam Hussain (as) is a deeply meaningful spiritual experience and a chance to renew their commitment to faith and righteousness.

Learning from the legacy of Imam Hussain (as)

The message of Imam Hussain (as) continues to resonate because it represents values that remain important today. His stand at Karbala was a stand for truth, justice, dignity, and moral responsibility.

The Arbaeen walk allows believers to reflect on these values and consider how they can apply them in their own lives. It transforms remembrance into action by encouraging people to serve others, support those in need, and uphold principles of compassion.

The depth of the connection believers have with Imam Hussain (as) is reflected in the words of Imam al-Sadiq (as).

He (as) is reported to have said: “O' Zurarah! The sky had cried for forty days over (the martyrdom of) Hussain (as).” (Mustadrak al-Wasail, v.1, p.391)

This narration reflects the profound impact of Imam Hussain’s (as) sacrifice and the lasting place he holds in the hearts of those who honour his mission.

Through Arbaeen, grief is transformed into positive movement. Pilgrims do not simply remember the tragedy of Karbala; they commit themselves to continuing its message.

Why Arbaeen holds a special place in faith

Many journeys take people from one place to another, but the Arbaeen journey represents a deeper transformation. It connects millions of people through remembrance, devotion, and a shared commitment to the values of Imam Hussain (as).

The significance of Arbaeen within Islamic spirituality is highlighted by Imam Hassan al-Askari (as).

The Imam (as) is reported to have said: “The signs of a believer are five: performing 51 units of prayer (17 wajib and 34 nawafil); pilgrimage of Imam Hussain (as) on Arbaeen; wearing a ring on the right hand; placing the forehead on earth (during sujood); and saying “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” aloud during the prayer.” (Tahdhib al-Ahkam, v.6, p.52)

For many believers, this narration highlights the special position of Arbaeen and its connection to faith, worship, and remembrance.

What makes Arbaeen unlike any other journey is the combination of devotion and service. It brings together millions of people while encouraging acts of kindness that continue long after the walk ends.

Walking with Hussain (as): Continuing the spirit of Arbaeen

The Arbaeen journey is unlike any other because it represents more than travelling to Karbala. It is a journey of devotion, unity, remembrance, and service that continues to inspire millions around the world.

You can also take part in this extraordinary movement. Let your giving walk beside them by supporting the people and communities serving this journey of devotion. Together, we can help continue the movement of Hussain (as) and strengthen the spirit of compassion and service that defines Arbaeen.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Arbaeen journey?

The Arbaeen journey is an annual pilgrimage to Karbala that takes place forty days after Ashura. Millions of people participate to commemorate Imam Hussain (as), remember his sacrifice, and reconnect with his message of faith, justice, and resilience.

Why do people walk during Arbaeen?

People walk during Arbaeen as an act of devotion and remembrance. The physical journey represents loyalty to Imam Hussain (as) and a commitment to the values he stood for, including truth, courage, and compassion.

How long is the Arbaeen Walk?

The length of the walk depends on where pilgrims begin their journey. Many people travel from Najaf to Karbala, covering around 80 kilometres, while others begin their pilgrimage from much farther locations.

What makes Arbaeen different from other pilgrimages?

Arbaeen combines a large-scale religious gathering with personal reflection and community service. The shared devotion of millions of pilgrims and the generosity of volunteers create an experience unlike many other forms of pilgrimage.

Who can participate in Arbaeen?

People from many different backgrounds participate in Arbaeen. Although it holds particular importance for Shia Muslims, the values represented by Imam Hussain (as), including justice and standing against oppression, have a universal message.

How can people support Arbaeen if they cannot attend?

Those who cannot make the journey themselves can still contribute to its spirit by supporting organizations and communities that provide assistance during Arbaeen. Acts of giving help continue the tradition of service inspired by Imam Hussain (as).