TEHRAN - On Thursday, the historical Jameh Mosque of Ardabil witnessed the sacred Tasht-Gozari ceremony aimed to pay homage to the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions.

The Tasht-Gozari ritual, which translates to "laying a wash-tub," symbolizes the vital significance of water, reminiscent of the water blockade faced by the third Shia Imam and his followers in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

The ceremony, part of the broader mourning traditions observed during the lunar month of Muharram, commenced following the noon prayers and continued until the call to Maghrib prayers, drawing participation from various mourning groups from different neighborhoods.

In preparation for Tasht-Gozari, volunteers meticulously clean the mosques and wash tubs. Then, six wash-tubs, representing the six neighborhoods, are carried into the Jameh Mosque by neighborhood representatives. These representatives, with wash-tubs balanced on their heads, circumnavigate the mosque, allowing mourners to touch the tubs and express their allegiance to Imam Hussein (AS). The wash-tubs are then placed on designated platforms within the mosque, and mourners pour jars of water into them.

For the next ten days, mourners drink the water from these tubs, believing in its healing properties, often taking it to the sick. The Tasht-Gozari ceremony is not only a remembrance of the sacrifices made by Imam Hussein (AS) but also serves as a reminder of the principles of justice, equality, and sacrifice he stood for.

The ceremony is also performed in tens of mosques across six main neighborhoods in Ardabil province.

AM