By Maryam Merchant
In a world where peace is scarcely found, my heart yearned for an escape from routine to reconnect with the divine. With an intent not only to seek spiritual fulfillment but to help those who need it most, I embarked on a pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Lady Zaynab (SA) during Arba’een.
The road to Lady Zaynab’s (SA) shrine was a journey through time, each step holding memories of her faith and sacrifice. The first glimpse of the shrine was awe-inspiring and emotional. The golden dome, glittering under the sun, seemed to touch the heavens. The minarets stood tall, guarding the sanctity of the place.
As I stepped inside, the ambiance of tranquility and devotion enveloped me. The Arba’een period brought with it a sea of faces, each with their own story, unified by their love of Hussain (AS). Tears of reverence rolling down cheeks, fervent prayers resonating through the halls, it was an experience that was beyond worldly descriptions.
Our trip had an added layer of social work that made it truly meaningful. Our journey transcended the self, and we had the opportunity to volunteer with the Lady Zaynab Helping Hands project, reaching out to the orphans in the vicinity. Meeting these children, with eyes full of hope and hearts full of dreams, was a humbling experience and a highlight of the trip. The day spent packing gifts, the joy of which would light up the little faces, added a layer of altruism and deeper fulfillment to the spiritual pilgrimage. The act of giving and sharing a part of our blessings with the innocent souls, resonated with the core essence of the sacrifices of the holy personalities buried here.
Lady Zaynab’s shrine (SA) was a sanctuary of serenity. As I sat there in prayer, the world seemed to fade away, and I felt an overwhelming sense of inner peace. The divine connection felt more profound with the thought of the smiles our humble offerings would bring to the children.
The insightful lectures and eloquent recitations by the scholars and reciters in our group helped us deepen our knowledge, and the reflective sessions allowed us to learn from each other’s personal insights and inspirations. Meeting individuals from diverse backgrounds, yet united in purpose, enriched the experience manifold. Each conversation, every shared prayer, and the collective search for divine connection created a bond that was as enriching as the Ziyarah itself.
Arba’een renewed my understanding of the profound connection between grief and inner peace. As we recount and mourn the tragedy of Karbala, we engage in a process of inner purification, creating a space of reflection and self-accountability. This mourning transcends the realms of personal loss, transforming into a communal journey of seeking inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. The tears shed for Imam Hussain (A.S) are not merely droplets of sorrow, but a rain of awakening that nourishes the soul, creating a sense of serenity and a deeper understanding of one’s faith.
The pilgrimage to Lady Zaynab (SA) wasn’t just a physical journey, but one of self-discovery and spiritual rejuvenation. Amidst the chaos of life, it reminded me of my purpose here on earth – to gain closeness to Allah through helping others. The calls to prayer, the smiles of the orphans, and the essence of true altruism I experienced, left a lasting mark on my heart. As I bid farewell, I prayed that this trip was just the beginning of many more to come, inshaAllah.
Beautifully written.