IQNA – Emphasizing the social and civilizational potential of the Arbaeen pilgrimage, an Iranian official identified this annual event as a model for the transformation of the Islamic University.
Hojat al-Islam Ahmadi, head of the Cultural and Educational Committee of the Arbaeen Headquarters, made the remarks while addressing a specialized session titled “Arbaeen and the Mission of the Ideal University in Realizing a New Islamic Civilization”.
It took place on Monday, November 2, at the Women’s Campus of Imam Sadiq (AS) University in Tehran. The event was organized in collaboration with the Women’s Council of the Arbaeen Headquarters’ Cultural and Educational Committee, alongside the Arabic and English language departments of the Women’s Campus.
Hojat-ol-Islam Ahamdi stated that leveraging the spirit of voluntary service, public participation, and social solidarity inherent in Arbaeen could pave the way for enhancing university governance, transforming the humanities, and cultivating committed, specialized human resources.
He underscored the necessity of studying the social and civilizational dimensions of Arbaeen, and stressed the importance of translating the experiences gained from this event into operational models applicable to public policy, legislation, governance, and human resource development.
Pointing to the need to harness public participation in university administration, he said, “We must manage the university in a more people-oriented manner and utilize the potential of this movement to realize the principles of an ideal Islamic university. Furthermore, faculty members and students must define their own positions and roles within this mission, ensuring they can effectively fulfill their responsibilities toward the university's envisioned transformation.”
Reflecting on the significance of Karbala and Arbaeen in the formation of a social movement, he said if Karbala represents the pinnacle of steadfastness, then Arbaeen represents the pinnacle of organizing this current and transforming it into a broader social movement. “Therefore, we must be able to utilize this organized movement to chart our own path forward, rather than viewing Arbaeen merely as a gathering.”
The official continued, “We must examine how the characteristics of Arbaeen can be applied within the university setting and how this event can evolve into a hub for the generation of ideas. Furthermore, we need to determine which aspects of this movement can be effectively transferred to an Islamic university.”
He identified selfless service offered without any expectation of reward or recognition as one of the most significant features of the Arbaeen movement, saying that participants strive to serve others without seeking any personal gain, compensation, or praise. “This spirit of service is a key factor in the success of the Arbaeen movement; by adopting this model, universities can integrate ethics alongside—and in the service of—academic knowledge.”
Pointing to the participation of diverse social groups and individuals from various nations in the Arbaeen observances, Hojat-ol-Islam Ahmadi added, “In this event, people with differing thoughts and perspectives come together on a shared path. Similarly, in a university, it is not necessary for everyone to think alike. Rather, despite differences in viewpoint, individuals should work toward common goals and address the core issues facing Islamic society, collaborating to achieve these objectives.”
He further highlighted social management and public participation as key characteristics of Arbaeen, stating, “During this event, millions of people gather within a limited timeframe, and the people themselves play an active role in managing and advancing the movement. This model of social management and public participation could serve as a template for the administration of a university.”
Arbaeen is a religious event observed by Shia Muslims on the fortieth day after the Day of Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the third Shia imam.
It is one of the largest annual pilgrimages in the world, with millions of Shia Muslims, as well as many Sunnis and followers of other religions, walking to Karbala from various cities in Iraq and neighboring countries.
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