Public Holiday in Iraq: Ashura

Date: 10th of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar (variable in Gregorian calendar)

History: Ashura is a significant public holiday in Iraq, particularly for the Shia Muslim community, which makes up a majority of the country's population. The day marks the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala on 10 Muharram 61 AH (October 10, 680 CE). This event had a profound effect on Islamic history and theology, particularly within Shiism.

Traditions:

• Mourning Rituals: Ashura is characterized by mourning rituals and passion plays that reenact the events of Husayn ibn Ali's martyrdom. This includes processions (called 'ma'atam' in Arabic) where people chant and beat their chests to express grief.
• Visitation of Holy Sites: Pilgrims from across Iraq and other countries visit the holy city of Karbala, where Husayn ibn Ali is buried.
• Charity: It is common for people to distribute free meals to others, especially the poor. These meals are often provided through temporary stalls set up along roadsides or near mosques.

What People Do:

• Participation in large public processions.
• Recitation of lamentations and poetry dedicated to Husayn ibn Ali.
• Listening to sermons that tell the story of Karbala.
• Acts of charity and community service as a way to honor Husayn's sacrifice.

The observance of Ashura serves as a period for reflection on social justice, moral values, and personal piety as inspired by Husayn ibn Ali's stand against tyranny.