Arbaeen Commemoration Among Turkey’s Alevis: A Religious Tradition and Social Identity Beyond Ritual

Arbaeen Commemoration Among Turkey’s Alevis: A Religious Tradition and Social Identity Beyond Ritual
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The Arbaeen of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) holds a special place among Alevis in Turkey, developing in recent years into a religious, social and cultural occasion that reflects their connection to the events of Karbala and the values associated with it, while strengthening their religious identity and social presence.

Turkey’s Alevi community is estimated to number between 20 and 25 million people, making it one of the country’s largest religious communities. Despite diversity in their cultural and religious perspectives, the remembrance of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him), as well as Ashura and Arbaeen ceremonies, represents a symbolic point of unity around values such as justice, freedom and resistance to oppression inspired by the Karbala movement.

Preparations among Alevis begin before the month of Muharram with various religious activities. During Muharram, many observe a 12-day fast in remembrance of the Twelve Imams. Abstaining from water and certain foods is practiced by some as a symbolic expression of solidarity with the suffering of the Holy Prophet’s family (peace be upon them) during the events of Karbala.

One of the prominent religious gatherings during this period is the “Cem” ceremony held in “Cem houses” (Cemevis), featuring prayers, spiritual chants and religious hymns led by Alevi religious figures known as “Dedes,” who play an important role in preserving and passing on religious traditions to younger generations. Such ceremonies are held in several Turkish cities, including Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir.

In recent years, participation by Turkish Alevis in the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Karbala has also increased, with groups organizing journeys to join the millions of visitors commemorating Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). These participants view the pilgrimage as an expression of their connection to the Imam and the values of Ashura.

Within Turkey, annual Arbaeen commemorations are also held in Istanbul and other regions, bringing together religious, cultural and social figures alongside followers of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).