Arbaeen is a particularly an extremely busy time in Najaf.
Be prepared for extremely long security lines to get in the haram, specifically an hour before salaat times. Visiting in middle of the night proves to be the best time to go, 12am-3am, there is still a rush but not as dramatic. You can perform a beautiful salat ul Layl in the haram as well.
Essentials
Please use the same advice in my previous blogs on security- only take essentials and do not expect to be able to take your phone in- if you try they will send you to amanat and that puts you all the way back in the queue.
Valuables
Be careful with any valuables you have, even the ones you have in your pockets, and pouches. I have heard of several instances of pilgrims being robbed (people actually picking pockets in all locations) in the all the pushing and pulling and crowd. Do not carry large sums of money inside, simple.
Group Scarves
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| Make sure you write your initials on your scarves |
Wear a scarf (one that is different and stands out) that everyone in your group can be identified easily.
Specific and clear meeting points are essential.
Children
Keep your children with you and make sure they know what to do in case you lose each other. Also make sure they have the address of where you are staying as a precaution. Make them feel at ease by reminding them they are in a holy place and Allah (swt) has sent thousands of angels to serve and protect them.
Zari Rush & Etiquette
There are all kinds of pilgrims, ones who push and pull and even pinch to get near the zari and ones who will gently guide and help you through and out. Do not be the ones who are pushing and pulling, it defeats the purpose and changes the atmosphere of tranquility that resides near the tomb.
Surrender to Allah's will and gently go with the flow of pilgrims, recite salawat, make your dua, remind yourself where you are, who you are standing in the presence of, the thousands of angels circling the dome above you, you'll get there.
Once you are there, make your dua, cry your tears, rub your cheeks, deposit your sadaqa, and make room for others to have the same opportunity. It can be tricky to get out once you are in, with pilgrims pushing in, find an opening and make your way. Try not to go against the flow of the crowd, you will most likely drop your glasses, or have your chador pulled off.
Timed Meeting Place
Have set times when to meet the rest of your group and location places- usually by the gates.
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