Abstract
In the year 680, Imam Hussein and his followers were massacred by the army of Yazid I, in the context of their confrontation for the leadership of the Umma (Islamic Community). Derived from this event, known as the Battle of Kerbala, emerged one of the most important traditions to the Shiism Community, the Ashura. Because of its relevance, for being the historical moment that confirmed the division of Islam into two large currents, the objective of this study is to review a set of characteristics of Ashura (including the history of its emergence); how it is experienced in the context of the Islamic Republic of Iran; and the political and identity implications that accompany this religious holiday. This research is based on the importance of a tradition that is still in force today and seeks to contribute to the field of studies of religious traditions and its links with politics. For this paper it has been necessary to have a documental revision related to the subject and an interpretation of this material. Finally, and preliminary, it is possible to say that the commemoration of this event is one of the best signs of identity among the Shiites in Iran and, also, the best representation of a government considered by itself as the protector of the Umma.
Presenters
Maritza Eridania Espejel PinedaProfesora, Centro de Relaciones Internacionales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Distrito Federal, Mexico
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
ASHURA, SHIISM, RELIGIOUS TRADITION, IRANIAN GOVERNMENT
