Every year, across towns and cities in Nigeria, followers of the Islamic Movement under the leadership of His Eminence, Ayatollah Sayyid Ibraheem Zakzaky (H), participate in the symbolic trek of Arba'een, commemorating the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (PBUH). To an outsider, the processions, black attire, and collective march may seem unfamiliar. But at the heart of this journey lies a universal story: a stand for justice, truth, and sacrifice against oppression.
Who Was Imam Hussain?🥀
Imam Hussain (PBUH) was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and a revered figure in Islamic history. In the year 680 CE, He and His small group of supporters were surrounded by the army of an unjust ruler named Yazid bn Mu'awiyah in Karbala, present-day Iraq.
Refusing to give allegiance to tyranny, Imam Hussain chose to stand firm, even when it meant facing death. He, along with 72 of His family members and companions, including His infant son, were martyred after enduring days of hunger, thirst, and siege. His stand was not for power or politics, but for the principles of truth, justice, and human dignity.
Why the Arba'een Trek?🏴
The Arba'een trek, is a symbolic walk marking the 40th day after Imam Hussain’s martyrdom, is one of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world. It represents resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of truth.
This journey is not just about remembrance, it is about revival and resistance. Through walking together, reciting slogans, poetry, and listening to lectures, and reaffirming our commitment to justice. Imam Hussain’s sacrifice teaches us that standing against oppression, no matter the cost, is a sacred duty.
A Universal Message:🌻
While the Arba'een trek is rooted in Islamic tradition, the story of Imam Hussain shares spiritual ground with figures in other religions. For example:
•Holy Jesus (PBUH) walked a path of sacrifice, standing against corruption and enduring persecution for divine truth.
•Holy Moses (PBUH) led his people on a journey of liberation, defying Pharaoh’s tyranny.
In both the Bible and the Qur’an, the righteous often endure hardship for the sake of justice.
In this light, we see Imam Hussain not just as an Islamic hero, but as a symbol for all humanity, much like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, or Mahatma Gandhi, who all embodied resistance against oppression.
Why in Nigeria?🇳🇬
In Nigeria, the Islamic Movement community organizes symbolic Arba'een processions to:
•Educate the public about Imam Hussain’s legacy.
•Strengthen moral consciousness and unity.
•Encourage peaceful resistance against injustice.
Despite facing crackdowns and misunderstandings, we remain committed to this peaceful, transformative march, inspired by Imam Hussain’s unwavering stance.
Our processions are open to all who wish to learn about this powerful history and its relevance to today’s struggles for justice.
In Conclusion👏🏽
The Arba'een trek is more than a religious observance, it is a global movement of conscience. By walking in remembrance of Karbala, we honor every victim of injustice, every voice silenced by tyranny, and every soul that chooses truth over power. Imam Hussain’s legacy teaches us that while tyrants may prevail temporarily, the light of justice can never be extinguished.
—Columnist Husayn Sulaymani | ABS Radio🎙️