Pilgrims Converge on Samarra to Mark Martyrdom Anniversary of Imam al-Hadi (peace be upon him)

Pilgrims Converge on Samarra to Mark Martyrdom Anniversary of Imam al-Hadi (peace be upon him)
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Today, the 3rd of Rajab, marks the solemn martyrdom anniversary of the tenth divinely appointed Imam, Ali ibn Muhammad al-Hadi (peace be upon them both). The Shia community worldwide observes this day with grief and commemorative gatherings.

A continuous wave of pilgrims has begun arriving in the holy city of Samarra to observe the martyrdom anniversary of the tenth Imam of Islam, Ali ibn Muhammad al-Hadi (peace be upon them both). According to Shia Waves News Agency, the massive influx of devotees reflects a deep and enduring devotion to the Ahlul-Bayt (peace be upon them), despite historical challenges associated with the site.

Local authorities have implemented specialized security and service measures to ensure the safety and comfort of the mourners. According to official reports, these arrangements include expanded medical stations, food distribution centers, and intensified surveillance around the Al-Askari Holy Shrine, where the Imam is buried alongside his son, Imam al-Askari (peace be upon him).

Imam al-Hadi (PBUH) was martyred in 254 AH (July 868 CE) after a life of profound tribulation. He faced significant political challenges, enduring confinement in Samarra for twenty years and nine months under the oppressive Abbasid caliphate. This period underscored his unwavering resilience and struggle for justice against tyranny.

Historical accounts from sources like Al-Irshād and Al-Kāfī confirm the Imam was poisoned by Abbasid Caliph al-Mu’tazz at around forty-one years of age.

Beyond the commemorative rituals, scholars are highlighting the profound spiritual heritage left by Imam al-Hadi (peace be upon him). A tiny drop from the ocean of his significant contributions include Ziyarat al-Jami’ah al-Kabirah, a comprehensive theological text outlining the station of the Imams, and the Ziyarat of Ghadir, which reaffirms the successorship of Imam Ali (peace be upon him). According to historical records, a prominent legacy of the Imam in preserving the Shia community and preparing it for the period of Occultation was establishing the “Network of Representatives” (Wikalah), which maintained community cohesion during his forced residency in Samarra.