Dahhā (دهها)
Definition
Dahhā (دهها) refers to the ten days of Muḥarram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During these ten days, Shīʿah Muslims commemorate the tragedies that befell Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib, and his sons, particularly focusing on the martyrdom of Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
Etymology
The word Dahhā (دهها) is the plural form of the Persian word ده meaning “ten.” This term highlights the significance of the ten-day period of mourning observed in Shīʿah communities. The association of the term with Persian origins indicates the historical and cultural impacts Persian-speaking regions have had on Shīʿah practices.
Translation
- Arabic: عشر (ʿAshra) أيام (Ayyām)
- Turkish: On (on) gün (günler)
Significance in Shīʿah Islam
Dahhā symbolizes profound grief and spiritual reflection within Shīʿah Islam. These days are marked by various practices, including:
- Majlis (Mourning Gatherings): Shīʿah Muslims hold gatherings in homes, mosques, or community centers where elegies are recited, and sermons are delivered recounting the events of Karbala.
- Matam (Self-flagellation): Some Shīʿah communities participate in rituals like chest-beating (matam) to express their sorrow and solidarity with Ḥusayn’s suffering.
- Public Processions: Demonstrations of grief through public processions where chants and lamentations are common.
Cultural Practices
- Ta’ziya: Dramatic reenactments of the Karbala narrative, particularly common in countries like Iran and India.
- Charity and Feeding the Needy: Distributing food to the poor and holding communal meals in honor of the martyrs.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Shia Revival” by Vali Nasr - Offers a comprehensive understanding of Shīʿah Islam and its historical context.
- “A History of Shi’i Islam” by Farhad Daftary - Provides an in-depth analysis of Shīʿah beliefs and practices.
- “The Women of Karbala: Ritual Performance and Symbolic Discourses in Modern Shi’i Islam” by Kamran Scot Aghaie - Explores the gendered aspects of mourning rituals.
- “Shi’ism in America” by Liyakat Takim - Discusses Shīʿah practices and their adaptations in the American context.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Dahhā (دهها) is not simply a term describing ten days; it encapsulates a period of intense devotion, remembrance, and communal cohesion with profound historical and theological implications in Shīʿah Islam. Understanding Dahhā provides insight into the ways Shīʿah Muslims connect with their heritage, express their grief, and reaffirm their spiritual commitments.
