Ashura

Ashura

Etymology

• Arabic: عاشوراء (‘āshūrā’)
• Turkish: Aşure

Definition

Ashura refers to the tenth day of the month of Muharram in the Islamic calendar. This day holds immense significance, particularly within Shia Islam, as it marks the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the third imam of Shia Islam. This event occurred in 680 CE at the Battle of Karbala.

Historical Context

The Battle of Karbala is a seminal event in Islamic history, marking a significant divide between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Husayn’s martyrdom is seen as a pivotal moment of sacrifice against tyranny and injustice.

Commemoration and Rituals

• Passion Plays: Shia communities reenact the events of Karbala in passion plays (ta’ziyah).
• Self-Mortification: Activities include self-flagellation and lamentation as expressions of collective sorrow and empathy with Husayn’s suffering.
• Modern Applications: The martyrdom of Husayn serves as a powerful symbol and ideological stance against oppression and despotism, often invoked in contemporary struggles and political movements.

Importance in Modern Times

Ashura has transcended its historical roots to emerge as a potent symbol in modern socio-political contexts:

• Iranian Islamic Revolution: It became a rallying cry during the Iranian Islamic revolution.
• Iran-Iraq War: The ethos of Husayn’s martyrdom inspired resistance during the Iran-Iraq war (1980–88).
• Lebanon and Beyond: Ashura is emblematic in diverse contexts where communities experience oppression and seek justice.

Suggested Readings

1. “The Shia Revival” by Vali Nasr - A detailed account of Shia historical and political movements, focusing on Ashura’s significance.
2. “Karbala: The History and the People” by Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi - An in-depth examination of the Battle of Karbala and its protagonist.
3. “Martyrdom in Islam” by David Cook - An exploration of the concept of martyrdom within the Islamic tradition with references to Husayn’s sacrifice.

Takeaways

• Ashura serves as a critical remembrance within Shia Islam centering around the themes of justice, sacrifice, and resistance.
• The rituals and reenactments underscore the collective community memory and are vital for cultural and religious identity.
• The day is marked not only by historical reverence but also by its continuous relevance to contemporary socio-political movements.

Conclusion

Ashura encapsulates a profound intersection of history, theology, and collective consciousness in Shia Islam. It epitomizes a legacy of defiance against tyranny, resonating with various struggles for justice across time and geographies.

Expanding the entry provides a richer, more contextual understanding of Ashura, enhancing both its historical and contemporary significance. By integrating etymology and encouraging further study, the entry offers a well-rounded reference.