Arbaeen-e Hosseini 2025

Description

Arbaeen-e Hosseini is a day of deep remembrance for Shia Muslims. It honors Imam Husayn, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who died standing up for justice in the battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

The observance falls forty days after Ashura. Ashura is on the tenth day of the month of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar. Because the Islamic calendar moves each year, the exact date of Arbaeen changes on the solar calendar and shifts earlier by about eleven days each year.

In Iran Arbaeen is very important. It is a time when many people reflect on courage, sacrifice, and standing against oppression. The day helps communities show unity and remember moral lessons from Husayn's stand.

Arbaeen also has strong spiritual meaning. For many it is a time for personal reflection, renewal of faith, and connecting beliefs to everyday choices about justice and compassion.

Traditions

In many Iranian cities people wear black clothes and gather in streets and mosques. They join long processions with banners and flags. Men and women sing lamenting songs and repeat poetry about the events.

Groups perform chest beating and rhythmic stepping together. Religious speakers and reciters lead prayers and readings. People attend majlis meetings where stories are told. Lamps and candles are lit and shrines get covered in black cloth.

Free food kitchens serve nazri meals like rice, stew, soup, flatbread and sweets. Volunteers hand out tea and water from large pots. Many give money, clothes, or food to needy families.

Some visit local shrines to pray and kiss the doors. They bring flowers and light candles. Communities clean streets and set up tents to welcome mourners.

Travel Tips

Many shops, museums, and some transport services close or run on limited hours. Expect heavy traffic, roadblocks, and crowded trains and buses during peak procession times. Book accommodation early and allow extra travel time for delays and detours.

Stay with a group, follow police or volunteer directions, and wear respectful clothing. Carry ID, cash, a charged phone, water, basic meds, and a photocopy of your passport. Avoid lone travel at night and note your embassy phone number for emergencies.