The Muharram festival, observed by Shia Muslims worldwide, has long been a source of controversy and concern due to the violent and self-harming practices associated with it. Despite living in the 21st century, where societal norms have evolved, this archaic and brutal religious ritual persists, leaving a deep and troubling impact on the younger generation.
Muharram – an intro
During the Muharram observances, devotees engage in a disturbing display of self-flagellation, using various weapons such as swords, knives, and chains to inflict severe cuts and injuries upon themselves. This practice, which is meant to commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, is a symbol of the fight against injustice and oppression. However, the sheer brutality and disregard for human life and dignity are deeply troubling.
What is even more concerning is the fact that this practice is not limited to adults, but often involves children as well. Reports have shown that young children are encouraged to participate in these processions, with some even being allowed to cut their heads with razors. This is a clear violation of child rights and a blatant disregard for their well-being.
Sadly, the governments in many countries where these practices take place have been largely silent, often citing the need to maintain social and political stability. The fear of losing votes or facing backlash from the religious community has led to a lack of decisive action to curb these violent and inhumane practices.
The Muharram festival, with its displays of self-harm and violence, stands in stark contrast to the principles of peace, compassion, and respect for human life that are at the core of many religious traditions. It is high time that the global community, including religious leaders and governments, take a firm stand against these archaic and brutal practices, and work towards promoting a more humane and inclusive understanding of faith and spirituality.
Countries where Muharram is strictly regulated or prohibited:
Afghanistan
The Taliban has imposed unprecedented restrictions on Muharram rituals in Afghanistan this year, limiting them to only three days between the 7th and 10th of Muharram. The Taliban has secured commitments from Shia scholars to accept these restrictions, which include:
- Holding ceremonies only in designated mosques approved by the Taliban
- Requiring the list of speakers to be approved by the Taliban
- Restricting mass gatherings and participation in media programs
- Prohibiting self-flagellation rituals like latmiyat (chest thumping)
Yemen
In Yemen, the Houthi authorities have targeted Shia citizens during Muharram, with ACLED recording 11 incidents of judicial harassment across this period. The Houthis have exacted religious taxes and forced the population to commemorate events in a systematic way, which is easier to impose during Sunni-majority festivals like Mawlid Nabawi than Shia festivals like Ashura.
Bahrain
Bahrain is the only Gulf country where Ashura is a national holiday and commemorations are allowed publicly. However, the Sunni Muslim Al Khalifa royal family has politically and religiously repressed the Shia majority population, including during Muharram.
So in summary, countries like Afghanistan under Taliban rule, Yemen under Houthi control, and Bahrain have all seen strict regulation or prohibition of Muharram celebrations, often targeting the Shia Muslim minority population. The restrictions range from limiting the number of days to banning certain rituals and controlling the content and speakers at events.
Conclusion
The younger generation deserves to grow up in a world where they are not exposed to such displays of violence and self-harm in the name of religion. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the values of non-violence, tolerance, and respect for human dignity are upheld and that the practice of Muharram is transformed into a celebration of the universal principles of peace and harmony.
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