Tasua and Ashura: The Shiite Festival of Remembrance of Hussein.
Tasua and Ashura are important religious festivals celebrated by Shiites around the world. They are closely linked to the history and martyrdom of Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammad, and commemorate his heroic decision to fight and die for truth and justice.
Tasua falls on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Muharram and Ashura on the 10th day. These two days are of great significance to Shiites as they commemorate the day Hussein was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Hussein was attacked and defeated by an overwhelming army led by Yazid, the Umayyad caliph. The day of his assassination is known as Ashura.
Tasua is the day before Ashura and is observed as a day of mourning. On this day, many Shiites wear black clothing and commemorate the death of Hussein and his companions. The mourning scene is enhanced by the erection of mourning tents and the reading of stories about Hussein's martyrdom. Many Shiites also participate in processions in which they flagellate themselves and express their grief and sympathy.
On Ashura Day itself, Shiites participate in funeral processions and processions mourning the martyrdom of Hussein. Many Shiites also visit mosques and gather to mourn Hussein's death together and commemorate his bravery and courage. Some Shiites also practice cranking an iron or copper chain known as Zanjir or Sineh Zani as a sign of their devotion and sacrifice.
Tasua and Ashura are important holidays for Shiites and show the importance of bravery, justice, and resistance to oppression and injustice. These festivals commemorate the sacrifice and commitment of Hussein and his companions who were willing to fight and die for their beliefs.