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Processions marking martyrdom of Imam Hussein gather pace

Yusef Jalali

Press TV, Tehran

Muslims around the world are marking the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein, the third Shia Imam. In Iran, mass mourning processions have been held to commemorate his sacrifices for Islam. 

Black-clad mourners are taking to the streets, beating on their chests, and listening to elegies in honor of a man who lived 14 centuries ago, but continues to touch the hearts of Muslims;

Mass processions are underway in Iran to mark the martyrdom anniversary. Iranians have been participating in the ceremonies in large numbers to pay respect to their Imam.

Imam Hussein (AS) was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).

Based on Islamic references, the Imam and 72 of his companions were martyred in the lunar calendar month of Muharram in 680 AD in the modern-day Iraqi city of Karbala by the forces of the 2nd Umayyid caliph, Yazid.

The battle was triggered after Imam Hussein refused to pay allegiance to Yazid who did not exercise the true Islam as taught by the prophet.

Many believe Imam Hussein's sacrifices saved Islam from distortion and manipulation by Yazid, and this is just one reason why his love hasn’t died down in the hearts of Muslims after 14 centuries.

Many Muslims never miss out on the 10-day mourning ceremonies in the month of Muharram. They say the rituals are meant to keep Imam Hussein's flag aloft and preserve his legacy for the generations to come.


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