The tragedy of Karbala has left an indelible impact on the Islamic world and beyond. It serves as a timeless reminder of the struggle against injustice, inspiring countless individuals to uphold principles of truth, justice, and resilience. The event’s commemoration fosters unity, empathy, and selflessness, strengthening the bonds of the global Muslim community and it continues to be a symbol of resistance against tyranny and a testament to unwavering faith and sacrifice.
Various symbols serve as a reminder of the events that transpired in the Iraqi desert 14 centuries ago. Among the most potent symbols that have emerged to represent Karbala is the flag – “Alam” and the unmatched loyalist Hazrat Abul Fadhil Abbas (‘a) – the flag-bearer of Imam Hussain (‘a) in Karbala, Iraq.
In its most basic translation, Alam in Arabic means flag or standard. Flags, standards and banners have been used since time immemorial by armies across the world. The use of the Alam can be traced back to the earliest days of Islam. The Holy Prophet (saww) gave the standard to Imam Ali (‘a) when the latter proceeded to conquer Khyber. Hazrat Jaffar bin Abi Talib, better known as Jaffar-e-Tayyar, also carried the Alam before he was martyred in the Battle of Mu’tah. Where Karbala and the events of Ashura are concerned, the Alam represents the banner held aloft by Hazrat Abbas bin Ali (‘a), the Alamdar or flag-bearer of Imam Hussain (a).
These examples prove that in the Islamic context, the bearer of the Alam on the battlefield bore a great responsibility and hence, the flag could only be entrusted to the most skilled of followers.
In this context, the Alam is seen as much more than a flag: when associated with Hazrat Abbas (‘a), it serves as a powerful symbol of defiance to tyranny, and a testament to the valour and bravery as he held the Alam aloft until he was mercilessly martyred near the banks of the Euphrates.
Today, centuries after the fact, to commemorate his heroic stand the Alam of Hazrat Abbas flutters throughout the globe. Infact one of the most soul-stirring scenes is that of the changing of the flag over the mausoleum of Imam Hussain (‘a): while the colour of the flag is red for most of the year, as soon as Muharram approaches, the black banner of mourning is unfurled.
Even those who walk to Karbala for Arbaeen, often witness local Iraqis marching to Karbala with an Alam in their hand. In East Africa, in all our Imambarghas, one will find the Alam of Hazrat Abbas (‘a) next to the Mimbar.
The KSI of Lubumbashi held a “Parchum Kushai” of Alam Raising majlis on Sunday, July 16, 2023. This tradition of raising a massive Alam outdoors at the Imambargha is common practice in Pakistan and India, as it marks the beginning of the Month of Muharram.
Since many community members tend to immigrate directly from the subcontinent to Congo, this practice has become a common event in Lubumbashi & Kinshasa.
The Alam and Azadari for Imam Hussain (a) are inseparable. Wherever mourning assemblies are taking place, the Alam is present. In mourning processions, the Alams are at the fore-front. The Alam may take different shapes and sizes amongst the different Shia communities across the globe, but its purpose is one. It is a collective pledge of allegiance to Imam al Hujjah (a.t.f.s) and answering the eternal call for standing up against injustice, even in the face of adversity, and rallying behind the cause of truth.
The Alam remains a powerful reminder to uphold the values of devotion, unwavering and steadfastness of faithful companions of Imam Hussein (‘a) and upholding the values of sacrifices and inspiring believers to strive for a unity, just and compassionate society under the banner of Imam al Hujjah’s guidance.
Photo Courtesy of: Br. Zaheerabbas Karim
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28th July 2023 / 9th Muharram 1445 A.H