Flagellation

192529

When a sin persists despite your efforts to overcome it, is self-flagellation or punishing oneself for the sin permissible as a last resort, such as touching fire as a reminder of hellfire?

Sayyed Mohammad Al-Musawi, Sayyed Mohammad al-Musawi is originally from Iraq and heads up the World Ahlul Bayt Islamic League in London. Other than being involved in various humanitarian projects, he frequently responds to... Answered 1 year ago

Touching the fire is not permissible because it can cause serious harm, but there are other ways like preventing yourself from certain foods which you like or fasting. This can teach us to avoid sinning as much as we can,

'Wassalam.

186117

Sunni-Shi'a . Flagellation

Why do some Shia engage in Zanjeer Zani? Is it considered a part of Shi'ism?

Sayyed Muhammad Husaini Ragheb, Sayyed Muhammad Husaini Ragheb has a BA in Law from Guilan University, Iran and has also undertaken Hawzah studies in Qom. He used to be a Cultural Affairs director of Ethics Group of Al-Mustafa... Answer updated 1 year ago

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah
There are 2 types of Zanjeer: one with blades and one is normal chains. Knowing that:

Zanjeer Zani is a practice observed by some Shia Muslims, particularly during the mourning rituals of Muharram, specifically on Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (a) at the Battle of Karbala. The term “Zanjeer Zani” refers to the act of striking oneself with chains (zanjeer) as a form of mourning or expression of grief.

Reasons for Engaging in Zanjeer Zani:

Expression of Grief: Many participants view it as a visceral expression of grief and mourning for the suffering of Imam Hussein (a) and his companions. It symbolizes their sorrow and a manifestation of their emotional pain over historical injustices.
Solidarity with Karbala: Engaging in such acts is seen as a way to show solidarity with the ideals of Karbala, such as standing against tyranny and oppression.
Cultural Tradition: In some cultures, Zanjeer Zani has become a deeply ingrained cultural practice during Ashura, incorporating local customs and community involvement.
Spiritual Significance: For some, the practice signifies a deepened connection to their faith and the sacrifices made for Islam, reinforcing their commitment to the principles for which Imam Hussein (a) stood.

Variations in Practice:

Chains with Blades: Some individuals use chains with small blades attached, while others may use chains that do not cause injury. The motivations and implications can vary widely among practitioners.
Non-Injurious Forms: Many also participate in forms of Zanjeer Zani that are designed to be safe and non-injurious, focusing instead on the symbolic act of mourning rather than self-harm.

Position Within Shi’ism:

Zanjeer Zani is not universally accepted within the Shia community. There are diverse opinions regarding its appropriateness and the emphasis on physical suffering:

Views Against Zanjeer Zani: Some scholars and community leaders argue that it is not an Islamic requirement and that excessive self-harm contradicts the principles of Islam, which values life and well-being. They advocate for other forms of mourning, such as reciting elegies (ma’tam) and holding memorial gatherings, as more appropriate expressions of grief.

Ayatullah Khamenie's view:

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, has addressed the issue of Zanjeer Zani. His views, reflecting a broader Shia scholarship, suggest that while mourning for Imam Hussein (a) is essential, practices should conform to Islamic teachings. He emphasizes:

Avoiding Extremes: Khamenei advises against practices that may contradict Islamic ethics, including excessive self-harm. His statements indicate a preference for mourning that encourages reflection on the message of Karbala rather than physical injury.
The Essence of Mourning: He emphasizes that the essence of mourning should be in remembering the values and lessons of Imam Hussein (a), rather than the physical acts themselves.

While Zanjeer Zani is a traditional practice among some Shia groups as a method of mourning for Imam Hussein (a), it is not a universally accepted aspect of Shi’ism. Diverse opinions exist regarding its appropriateness, and major religious leaders, including Ayatollah Khamenei, advocate for mourning practices that align with Islamic values, cautioning against self-harm and emphasizing the importance of understanding and embodying the teachings of Imam Hussein (a).

******

Aslo Regarding Qame Zani:

It is another form of mourning practice among some Shia Muslims, particularly during the month of Muharram. This practice involves using a sword or a knife (qama) to inflict minor cuts or wounds on the body as a form of mourning for Imam Hussein (a) and his sacrifice at the Battle of Karbala. Like Zanjeer Zani, Qame Zani has sparked debate among scholars and community leaders regarding its appropriateness and implications.

Ayatullah Khamenie's view:

Emphasis on Mourning: Ayatollah Khamenei has expressed that mourning for Imam Hussein (a) is a significant and noble act, but he has repeatedly stressed that such mourning should be conducted in a manner consistent with Islamic values and principles.
Caution Against Self-Harm: He has voiced concerns about practices that may lead to excessive self-harm or injury. Khamenei’s stance is generally against practices that result in severe injury or that are seen as extreme.
Impact on Islam’s Image: Regarding practices that could defame Islam or create negative perceptions among non-Muslims, Khamenei encourages the Shia community to be mindful of how their actions may be interpreted. He expects Muslims to maintain the dignity of Islamic teachings and avoid actions that might alienate non-Muslims or create misunderstandings about the faith.
Encouragement of Educational Efforts: Khamenei emphasizes that the message of Imam Hussein (a) and the tragedy of Karbala should be propagated in ways that highlight their significance and values, such as justice, resistance against tyranny, and the pursuit of truth. He advocates for education and outreach that accurately represent Islamic principles rather than resorting to practices that could lead to misinterpretation.
Unity and Respect: He also stresses the importance of unity among Muslims and fostering respect for all of Islam’s teachings, warning against practices that might cause division or conflict within the Muslim community or with non-Muslims.

In summary, Ayatullah Khamenei promotes a thoughtful approach to mourning practices like Qame Zani, urging the Shia community to engage in expressions of grief that align with Islamic teachings and do not cause harm. He remains vigilant about the implications of such practices, especially concerning how they may affect the perception of Islam among non-Muslims. His overarching message is one of maintaining the dignity of the faith, fostering understanding, and educating both Muslims and non-Muslims about the values embodied by Imam Hussein (a) and the tragedy of Karbala.

Ayatullah Sistani's view:

The view of his eminence in his website is:

Rulings on Religious Gatherings

Issue 530: Chest beating, crying, and striking one’s face, no matter how intense, if done out of sorrow and sadness for Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), are considered examples of “grief,” “crying,” and “mourning” for him (peace be upon him), which are recommended and lead to closeness to the Almighty God, provided that they do not cause significant harm (excessive and important harm). This ruling also applies to the mourning of other infallibles (peace be upon them).

It should be noted that mourning ceremonies for the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), especially for Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), are among the most significant religious rites, and one should not be negligent in their observance. In this context, while maintaining the dignity, greatness, and sacred grandeur of these ceremonies and other gatherings related to the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) is considered the duty of the believers, actions that may undermine the mourning should be avoided.

Issue 532: Regarding the practice of Qame Zani (striking oneself with a sword) in mourning ceremonies, we do not make a definitive statement for or against it. Believers can refer to another qualified religious authority on this matter while observing the principle of following the most knowledgeable.

ENDING NOTE:
While some scholars might suggest that acts leading to minor self-inflicted injury during mourning are permissible and may carry a spiritual weight, the consensus typically promotes caution, intention, and moderation. Each scholar’s position will vary, and individuals often refer to their specific marja (jurisprudential authority) to understand the specific guidance regarding mourning practices. The context and cultural significance of these rituals play a significant role in how they are interpreted within the Shia community.

176794

Matam . Blood . Flagellation

Could you provide me with proper references regarding permissibility of Matam? Additionally, which form of Matam is considered correct, simple Matam with hands or drawing blood through Zanjeerzani?

Maatam (Beating chest) is a human action to reflect grief and sadness. It is been practiced by millions of people when they face or remember a sad incident. It was practiced by Muslims during the life of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWA) when they came to know about the injury of the Prophet (SAWA) in the battle of Ohod. Ayisha daughter of Abu Bakr did Maatam when the Prophet passed away. (Musnad Abi &A’la Al-Moosili, Volume 8, page 63) Hadeeth number 4586.

Wassalam.

135679

Matam . Flagellation

Why is Zanjeer considered forbidden but regular Matam is allowed when slapping yourself hard on your chest can also cause hurt? At what point or in what shape, if any, could Matam by hand be considered disallowed?

Our great Fuqahaa' who are the very high in Fiqh (Jurisprudence) do not issue any verdict of Haraam (not allowed) unless they have concrete evidence against it in Quran and Sunnah of the Ma'soomeen. There are many ways to express sadness and grief of the tragedies of Ahlul Bayt (AS) including beating the chest which called (Matam) in some countries and beating the back with chains which is called Zanjeer in some countries. Both are permissible to express the noble feeling of sadness and grief on Ahlul Bayt (AS). Having said that, we are not allowed to cause dangerous harm to ourselves which means that we must keep the limits of our mourning practices away from causing dangerous harm to ourselves.

Wassalam.

90798

Mourning . Flagellation . Sunni-Shi'a

Sunnis often criticize the Shia for their methods of mourning, whether it be striking chests, cutting or self flagellation. How can we substantiate these actions?

Islam allows every one to express his feelings of happiness or sadness in his own way as far as it does include a sinful act like drinking alcohol or dancing etc. Human beings all over the world have different cultures and they are allowed to express their feelings according to what they feel suitable within the frame of Shariah.

Mourning the tragedies of Imam Husain (AS) and all Ahlul Bayt (AS) is a sign of love of the Prophet (SAWA) and his Progeny Ahlul Bayt (SAWA). Those who do not mourn such tragedies reflect that they do not feel a degree of love. The Prophetic Hadeeth says: No one from you O Muslims will be a believer till he loves me and my Progeny more than his love to himself and his family.

We ask those Muslims who do not mourn nor care for the tragedies of Imam Husain (AS): If any of your beloved ones faces a tragedy, what will be your feeling for him? Then why do you ignore the tragedies of Imam Husain?
The Prophet himself mourned and wept on this tragedy before it took place ( Al-Mo'jam Al-Kabeer by Al-Tabarani ( 2811) Sunan al-Tirmithi 3774, and Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal , V.1, P.85 and Al-Mustadrak 'Alaa Saheehain by al-Haakim al-Nisabori , V.3, P. 176, and Al-Bidayah WAL Nihayah by Ibn al-Atheer , 8:200, and many other Sunni books).

The basic fact is this : Every lover of the Prophet (SAWA) must feel sad for the tragedies of the Prophet and his Progeny, otherwise his claim to be a lover of the Prophet (SAWA) will be questionable.

The way of expressing the sad feelings depends on the person himself or herself and his culture and society. We have no right to dictate on people from different cultures what we think suitable according to our own culture and society.

Beating the chest to express sadness and grief is used by people in many cultures. Even Ay'sha daughter of Abu Bakr used to beat her chest on the death of beloved person as you can find it in many Sunni books e.g. Musnad Ahmad ibn Hanbal ; Hadeeth number 25144, and Musnad Abi Ya'la ;V.8, P. 63, and Al-Bayhaqi Dala'il Al-Nubowwah , Hadeeth 3151 and Ibn Sa'ad in al-Tabaqaat al-Kubra,V2, P.261 and Ibn al-Atheer in al-Kaamil fil Rareekh, V.2, P. 322 and many other Sunni books..

Wassalam.

58284

Shi'a . Flagellation

What is the ritual of Zanjeer and why do some Shi’a practice it while others consider it wrong?

Amina Inloes, Amina Inloes is originally from the US and has a PhD in Islamic Studies from the University of Exeter on Shi'a hadith. She is the program leader for the MA Islamic Studies program at the... Answer updated 6 years ago

Zanjeer involves hitting yourself with chains or sometimes blades as part of a mourning ceremony for Imam Husain. It is customary in some areas.

There is a difference of opinion on this these days. Some Shi'is consider it to be a good expression of dedication or loyalty to Imam Husain or as a practice they associate with their identity. (Personally I think some people associate it with being manly, as women do not usually do it, but admittedly no one around me has ever put this into words.)

Other Shi'is consider it wrong because it does not have a solid basis in Qur'an/hadith, because there is evidence that it is a later addition to Shi'i practice, because they feel it gives Islam a bad image, because it could distract from doing acts that the Qur'an teaches about, or because it might lead to self-harm.

Anyway there are plenty of enthusiastic debates about this online which you can read.

God knows best!