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Martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Askari in Iran
Imam Hasan al-Askari was the 11th Imam in Twelver Shia Islam and his martyrdom is commemorated by Shia Muslims around the world, including Iran, where a significant number of Shias reside. He was born on the 10th of Rabi'ul Aakhir (the fourth month of the Islamic lunar calendar) and was martyred on the 8th of Rabi'ul Awwal in the year 260 AH (874 AD).
The day marking his martyrdom is observed with solemnity on the 8th of Rabi'ul Awwal each year. Given that Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, the corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar varies annually.
Imam Hasan al-Askari lived under house arrest in Samarra during much of his life due to Abbasid Caliphs considering him a threat to their rule. He played a significant role in promoting Shia Islam despite his confinement. His death is widely believed by Shias to have been at the hands of the Abbasid caliphate through poisoning.
On this day, Shia Muslims engage in several religious practices:
Mourning Gatherings: People attend majlis (mourning gatherings) at mosques and religious centers where they listen to lectures and sermons recounting the life and legacy of Imam Hasan al-Askari.
Recitation: There are special recitations from religious texts such as Ziyarat, which are specific supplications or salutations directed towards holy figures.
Acts of Charity: Many believers participate in charitable acts such as distributing food to the poor or contributing towards social welfare projects as a means to honor Imam Hasan al-Askari's memory.
Visitation: If possible, some pilgrims travel to Samarra in Iraq where Imam Hasan al-Askari is buried alongside his father Imam Ali al-Hadi in Al Askari Mosque. Those who cannot make this journey might visit local shrines or gravesites.
In Iran specifically, these observances are often marked by public processions and gatherings reflecting collective mourning. The atmosphere is typically one of reflection and reverence throughout these days with black banners often displayed to symbolize mourning.
