Arbaeen Walk Is a Spiritual Journey, Says Ali Ahmad Panahi

Arbaeen Walk Is a Spiritual Journey and a Path of Self-Transformation: Ali Ahmad Panahi

Shiite News: Ali Ahmad Panahi, Associate Professor at the Hawza and University Research Institute and a member of its Academic Committee, said that the Arbaeen Walk is not merely a massive gathering or a geographical journey but a spiritual expedition and a practical manifestation of the path toward moral and spiritual growth.

He explained that it is a journey in which the ground beneath a pilgrim’s feet becomes a means of self-discovery, self-purification, and spiritual renewal. The route is not simply a connection between Najaf and Karbala; it also symbolizes a profound bond between humanity’s search for truth and the highest ideals of human perfection.

Panahi emphasized that every step taken on this path should rise above physical exhaustion and become a source of spiritual blessing. A true pilgrim, he said, is not one who merely walks the distance, but one who breathes meaning and purpose into every step through sincerity of heart. If the pilgrimage remains limited to physical acts of worship without leading to inner purification and spiritual refinement, its only result will be the dust gathered on one’s body.

He urged every pilgrim to ask whether their steps are leading them away from the commanding self (nafs al-ammarah) and toward the tranquil soul (nafs al-mutma’innah).

Panahi added that adab (proper etiquette and conduct) is what distinguishes an ordinary traveler from a true pilgrim. The Arbaeen route is a sacred sanctuary associated with Imam Hussein (AS), and observing Islamic manners and religious values during the journey is not merely a legal obligation but a religious duty and an expression of sincere faith.

He advised pilgrims to guard their tongues against backbiting, idle talk, and careless worldly speech, noting that every word leaves an impression on the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage. Good character, observing moral boundaries, modest dress, and treating others with humility and respect reflect the patience and steadfastness demonstrated in Karbala. Every pilgrim should remember that they represent the noble mission and values of Imam Hussein (AS).

Panahi described the Arbaeen Walk as a test of moral character. Fatigue, hunger, and crowded conditions challenge a person’s patience while providing an opportunity for the true spirit of Islamic ethics to shine.

He highlighted two essential ethical principles every pilgrim should uphold:

Selflessness and Forgiveness: Just as volunteers serving pilgrims along the route revive the spirit of Karbala through extraordinary generosity and sacrifice, pilgrims should control their anger and treat fellow travelers with kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.

Discipline and Order: Respecting queues, observing public rights, and avoiding irresponsible behavior are essential expressions of Islamic justice and discipline. Disorder diminishes the dignity and beauty of this sacred movement.

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Concluding his remarks, Ali Ahmad Panahi urged participants not to be merely travelers but muhajirs—those who migrate from a lower state of the self toward higher spiritual excellence. He called on pilgrims to follow divine guidance and the moral teachings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS), so that every step becomes an expression of submission to Allah and a recognition of the truth. He concluded that Arbaeen is one of the greatest opportunities to demonstrate that religion is not merely words but a living expression of etiquette, morality, religious commitment, and the highest human values.