Muslims in Iran observe Tasua mourning rites

Muslims in Iran perform mourning rituals to commemorate Tasua, the day that precedes the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the third Shia Imam, and his companions.

Millions of Muslims dressed in black in Iran mark Tasu’a, the ninth day of Muharram, which is the first month in Islam’s lunar calendar, by taking part in nationwide mourning processions and beating their chests.

During the mourning ceremonies, that began in the early morning of Thursday and will continue until about midnight, the story of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions in Karbala is narrated.

Similar mourning rituals are performed by Muslims around the world.

Tasua is devoted to Abbas ibn Ali, Imam Hussein’s (AS) half-brother.

He was martyred on Ashura, shortly before Imam Hussein (AS) himself, as he attempted to bring water for women and children in the Imam's camp, whom had no water for days because of a siege imposed by the enemy.

Imam Hussein (AS) was martyred along with 72 of his companions in the Battle of Karbala, which took place in southern Iraq, on the tenth day of Muharram some 14 centuries ago.

He was martyred after fighting courageously for justice against thousands of soldiers of the Umayyad caliph, Yazid I.

Each year, Shia Muslims commemorate Ashura, the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), dressed in black and taking part in mourning rituals.

Ashura is the climax of 10-day mourning ceremonies observed in Muharram. The ceremonies symbolize humanity's struggle against tyranny and oppression.

SQ/MM