Zakzaky Tells Departing Pilgrims: Let Your Conduct Speak for the Ahl al-Bayt

The Nigerian Islamic Movement leader urges Arbaeen travellers to purify their intentions and present a true image of the faith, tracing the march back to Jabir al-Ansari

The leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria has called on Arbaeen pilgrims to embody sincerity and exemplary moral conduct, and to serve as worthy ambassadors of Islam and the school of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), as millions of believers prepare to converge on the holy city of Karbala.

Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky made the appeal on Tuesday, the sixth of Safar, at a gathering held at his residence in Abuja with brothers and sisters preparing to depart for the pilgrimage of Imam Hussein (AS) in Iraq.

A tradition reaching back to the first Arbaeen

Sheikh Zakzaky described the Arbaeen march as a practice with deep roots in Islamic history, tracing it to the very first Arbaeen after the tragedy of Karbala.

“This magnificent movement possesses an ancient lineage,” he said. “It was first performed by Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari, one of the esteemed companions of the Holy Prophet (S), on the occasion of the first Arbaeen after the events of Karbala.”

The pilgrimage, he said, is the very symbol of love, loyalty, and empathy with the household of the Prophet (PBUH) — a spiritual journey that draws a person ever closer to religious values and to the profound teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS).

‘A true and correct image’

He urged the departing pilgrims to purify their intentions, uphold Islamic ethics, and maintain dignified conduct throughout the journey. “The pilgrims of Arbaeen must serve as worthy ambassadors of Islam and the school of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS),” he said, “presenting a true and correct image of this immense spiritual movement through their righteous deeds and noble character.”

Sheikh Zakzaky also cautioned against distorted perceptions of large religious gatherings, drawing a parallel with the Hajj. In any vast congregation, he noted, a small number of individuals may behave improperly — but the majority must never be blamed or penalised for the actions of a tiny minority.

He closed the gathering with prayers for all the pilgrims, wishing them health, safety, and success on their journey.

Reference: ABNA24