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You can get full audio at - http://www.afosa.org/lectures/muharram01.mp3
This introductory lecture commenced with a reminder of the purpose of the annual gatherings of the first 10 days of Muharram. These gatherings are a commemoration of the revolution of Imam Husayn ibn Ali (AS), the Saviour of Islam. Imam Husayn’s (AS) death was to prevent the distortion of the message of his grandfather, and to ensure the survival of the core tenets of Islam, which were being torn apart after the ascension to the Khilafa by Yazid ibn Muawiya.

This commemoration, besides providing a reminder of the events that occurred in Karbala, result in a spiritual rejuvenation. It is reported that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) said: “Surely Husayn is Lamp of Guidance (Misbaah ul Huda) and the Ark of Salvation (Safinatun Najaat).” The annual gatherings of Muharram help save the souls of those who are part of them.

In addition to this, the message of Imam Husayn (AS), being one of revolution against oppression provides inspiration for us to rise against tyranny and oppression. The call of “Hayhat minna zilla” (Woe unto the wretched (oppressor)” that Imam Husayn (AS) made resonates as loudly today as it did centuries ago. The commemorations of Muharram were part of the driving force that led to the overthrow of the despotic Pahlavi regime and led to the formation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

This inspiration to fight against oppression continues today, and is reflected in the so-called Arab Spring. The Middle East is undergoing an Islamic reawakening, that has led to the uprisings against the tyrants and a reaffirmation of the core values of Islam. This movement is further inspiring others worldwide, and the size of the “Occupy” movement reflects man’s innate urge to fight all forms of oppression.