Holy Arbaeen Continues to Produce Wonders, Blessings for Iraq and Beyond

Holy Arbaeen Continues to Produce Wonders, Blessings for Iraq and Beyond
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The Arbaeen pilgrimage this year again revealed why millions call it a wonder of modern faith: streets and border crossings swelled with devoted walkers and families converging on Karbala, turning transit points into scenes of communal piety and logistical bustle.

ShiaWaves’ coverage highlights the pilgrimage’s cultural economy: bazaars from Najaf to Karbala brim with devotional items — tasbihs, rings, flags and souvenirs — and local sellers report millions of dollars in sales in the fortnight before Arbaeen, a vivid link between spirituality and livelihoods.

Along the routes, volunteer moukebs (service stations) provide free food, water, shelter and medical aid around the clock, run by families, charities and religious groups. These acts of hospitality — not commerce but service — are central to the pilgrimage’s character.

Personal devotion completes the picture: media reports spotlight elderly pilgrims — including centenarian walkers from Iraqi provinces who trek days to reach the shrines — becoming living symbols of persistence and faith for younger generations.

With official and independent counts placing attendance above 20 million in recent years, Arbaeen remains one of the world’s largest peaceful gatherings — equal parts spiritual testament, social solidarity and humanitarian effort.