EDITORIAL

Every year, the Muharram mourning rites and rituals make us remember certain pages of history that took place in the distant past. In this way, those rites and rituals play the role of bring the distant past near us and remind us that make a distant past somewhat tangible for us. In addition, it makes a context for people to add to their religio-historical knowledge and awareness. There are certain reasons why people feel and express so much ardent feelings towards the Muharram mourning ceremonies. The hardcore of such ardent feelings should not be sought in peoplechr('39')s sentimentality. Not all people can be so easily stirred by the agonies and afflictions imposed on a noble dignitary in the remote past. Rather the roots of this sacred reaction must perhaps be sought in the sincerity and absolute truth discernible in the unique sacrifice Imam al-Husayn offered for guiding the mankind to the Right Path. One may take various lessons from the tragic events that took place in Muharram 61 AH/ 680. Among these valuable lessons, there are lessons of devotion to God, sincerity, and steadfastness in the Right Cause. In the famous ziarat-text issued by the sixth Infallible Imam Jachr('39')far al-Sadiq to be recited on Arbaeen, it is asserted that Imam al-Husayn sacrificed his life-blood for guiding people and rescuing them from ignorance and perplexity. Clearly, such sacrifice for the sake of God and to the effect of guiding all people deserves being imprinted in peoplechr('39')s historical memory. It is in this way that whoever understands the basic lessons of humanity appreciates Imam al-Husayn and his martyred companions for their noble sacrifice amd commemorates their awakening martyrdom.  A lesson to be taken for the present time is that everybody has to fill their tasks with sincerity, piety, and efforts to help others. With these characteristics, it is hoped that a better future will be portrayed for all people in the world.