Unity and Sacrifice: Lessons from Arbaeen for Muslim Youth

byAsghar Jafari •August 2, 2025•
Islam
Magazine cover: A somber boy with a backpack sits among gravestones, with a destroyed city in the background. Text reads 'DREAMS BENEATH THE RUBBLE: A STUDENT'S RESISTANCE IN GAZA' by HamQadam, August 2025.

Introduction

Every year, millions of Muslims gather in Karbala, Iraq, to commemorate Arbaeen, the 40th day following the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (R.A) and his companions. This year, attendance surged by nearly 10%, with 22 to 25 million pilgrims participating in this profound display of faith, resilience, and devotion. For students and young Muslims in Pakistan and around the world, Arbaeen is more than a religious ritual—it is a living lesson in courage, ethical responsibility, and social solidarity.

In an era of global unrest, digital distractions, and societal pressures, reflecting on the principles embodied by Imam Hussein (R.A) reminds us of the power of standing for justice, even against overwhelming odds. Just as Karbala inspired a movement that reshaped Islamic history, today’s Muslim youth can draw lessons on leadership, community service, and moral courage. Arbaeen exemplifies how faith, ethical action, and collective responsibility intersect—principles that are just as relevant for the challenges faced by students in universities, workplaces, and communities today.

Background & Context

The tragedy of Karbala occurred in 680 AD, when Imam Hussein (R.A), grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and 72 companions were martyred in the face of tyranny, led by the Umayyad caliph Yazid I. Ashura—the 10th day of Muharram—marks the day of their sacrifice. Arbaeen, observed 40 days later, commemorates the resilience of the human spirit, the defense of justice, and unwavering faith.

Today, Arbaeen is one of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world. Pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers, often offering free food, water, and medical assistance along the way. This massive voluntary effort reflects a profound sense of community service, empathy, and selflessness, values that are universally relevant, especially for young Muslims aspiring to contribute positively to society.

Current Challenges for Students & Society

While Arbaeen demonstrates unity and moral courage, contemporary students face challenges that require similarly principled responses:

  • Disconnection from civic responsibility: Many students focus solely on personal success, overlooking opportunities to contribute to their communities.
  • Digital distractions and misinformation: Social media offers access to knowledge but can also spread rumors, extremism, or superficial engagement.
  • Moral dilemmas in academic and professional life: Ethical compromises, competition, and societal pressures often conflict with personal and faith-based values.
  • Global and local crises: Issues like climate change, inequality, and social injustice demand awareness, empathy, and action from informed youth.

Understanding these challenges through the lens of Arbaeen provides students with a framework to navigate life with purpose, resilience, and ethical integrity.

Islamic Perspective

Arbaeen embodies the Islamic principles of justice, sacrifice, and service to humanity:

  • Quranic guidance: “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:58) reminds us that standing for justice is both a divine obligation and a moral duty.
  • Seerah inspiration: Imam Hussein (R.A) exemplified standing against oppression, prioritizing ethical principles over personal safety or worldly gain.
  • Practical ethics: The volunteers who serve millions of pilgrims exemplify the Islamic concept of khidmah (service), showing that leadership is not only about authority but also about compassion, empathy, and action.

For students, this teaches that faith is not only personal but also actionable—embedded in community service, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility.

Critical Analysis

Arbaeen offers several lessons for reflection:

  • Scale does not diminish individual impact: Even a single volunteer’s contribution to pilgrims demonstrates how small actions can ripple outward.
  • Faith and activism are intertwined: Standing for justice, supporting others, and promoting ethical behavior are forms of spiritual and social activism.
  • Unity does not require uniformity: Millions of pilgrims from diverse backgrounds gather in harmony, showing that shared values can unite communities despite differences.
  • Modern relevance: In Pakistan and globally, youth can emulate Karbala’s principles by promoting justice, volunteering, and participating responsibly in social movements, bridging local action with global awareness.

Recognizing these lessons encourages critical thinking: How can students emulate these virtues in everyday life, academic pursuits, and social engagement?

Practical Takeaways for Students

  • Volunteer in local charities, NGOs, or community service projects.
  • Support peers and marginalized groups through mentorship, tutoring, or advocacy.
  • Stand up for justice in academic, professional, and social settings.
  • Apply ethical principles in personal and professional decisions.
  • Engage in digital activism responsibly—share verified information and constructive initiatives.
  • Participate in environmental sustainability projects inspired by ethical stewardship (khilafah).
  • Reflect regularly on historical and Islamic examples of courage and integrity.

Conclusion

Arbaeen is not only a commemoration of past sacrifice—it is a living guide for Muslim youth navigating today’s challenges. Just as Imam Hussein (R.A) stood unwaveringly for justice, students can embody courage, service, and ethical leadership in their communities. The responsibility is ours: to act with integrity, serve with compassion, and inspire change through both thought and action. By embracing these values, Muslim youth can help build a just, compassionate, and empowered society.