Beyond being merely a religious occasion, the Arbaeen pilgrimage of Imam al-Husayn (peace be upon him) is a profound gathering that revives the wellspring of noble human values and virtues.
Arbaeen is a unique event in human history, containing within it invaluable elements long sought by the human nature inclined toward God—yet often lost amid the noise and distractions of modern life.
Human nature and innate disposition yearn for honesty, justice, altruism, compassion, and empathy. However, these precious jewels gradually fade amidst the dust of worldly concerns, distancing people from their true essence. Arbaeen, therefore, is far more than just a religious commemoration; it is a grand meeting point for returning to these pure sources.
During the Arbaeen march, people from diverse nationalities, religions, and cultures come together with pure intentions and without material expectations. This massive gathering creates a new space for compassion, dialogue, tolerance, and acceptance of others. Many participants may not have had opportunities for such peaceful coexistence and generosity throughout the year, but here, they rediscover the path of love and kindness, exchanging gifts and acts of service.
Values such as altruism and hospitality take on deeper meaning during Arbaeen. Those who give selflessly of their material possessions, and the pilgrims who sacrifice comfort and luxury to endure the hardships of this spiritual journey, find themselves filled with joy and a renewed sense of the meaning of life. Children, adolescents, and the elderly alike come to fully experience the meaning of sharing, empathy, and solidarity.
Another profound achievement of Arbaeen is the revival of the sense of justice and resistance to oppression. The memory of Imam al-Husayn and his loyal companions—through their steadfastness and refusal to compromise with falsehood—inspires modern humanity to rise again, holding firmly to their values whenever justice and freedom seem lost. This revival takes the form of a conscious, collective awakening that connects people to their historic mission of supporting the oppressed.
Amid this vast crowd of millions, each individual finds a chance to reflect on the meaning of life and reinterpret their identity. Many pilgrims see themselves in a new light, becoming more aware of their shared pains, aspirations, and hopes. This collective experience not only deepens individual spirituality but also provides a spiritual reservoir for social reform, intellectual unity, and practical solidarity.
Thus, Arbaeen is not merely a revival of forgotten values—it is also a school of humanity and civilization, an experience that demonstrates how humans, by engaging in these rituals, can return to the source of virtue and purity. By reviving these values, individuals play an active role in building a brighter future for humanity.
Arbaeen, therefore, is both a moment of spiritual return and a reminder of a renewed covenant—with oneself and with Almighty God.