Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

Elderly Vendor Refuses to Sell Until Daily Quran Recitation is Complete - Iraq

In a unique scene within the Erbil market a citizen named Osman Ahmed Marouf has continued reading the Holy Quran for 30 years in front of the city s ancient Citadel. Mam Osman, who is 80 years old earns his living by selling cigarette packs and lighters. Every day before starting his work, he follows a fixed schedule of reading one part Juz of the Holy Quran. Only after he finishes his reading does he begin his daily trade. Through this routine, he completes a full recitation Khatm of the Quran once a month. Despite his advanced age this citizen is seen in the same spot daily and has become a prominent symbol of the market. As he indicates this reading has become an inseparable part of his daily life. January 19, 2026. Photo by Rashid Othman Sabur/ABACAPRESS.COM

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

04.09.2025, Tallinn. 150 well-known people in Estonia will read aloud the names of 22,600 victims of communism, identified by the association Memento and the Estonian Institute of Historical Memory in the Dominican Monastery in Tallinn. It will take about 21 hours. Photo Eero Vabamägi, Postimees

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

04.09.2025, Tallinn. 150 well-known people in Estonia will read aloud the names of 22,600 victims of communism, identified by the association Memento and the Estonian Institute of Historical Memory in the Dominican Monastery in Tallinn. It will take about 21 hours. Photo Eero Vabamägi, Postimees

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

04.09.2025, Tallinn. 150 well-known people in Estonia will read aloud the names of 22,600 victims of communism, identified by the association Memento and the Estonian Institute of Historical Memory in the Dominican Monastery in Tallinn. It will take about 21 hours. Photo Eero Vabamägi, Postimees

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

04.09.2025, Tallinn. 150 well-known people in Estonia will read aloud the names of 22,600 victims of communism, identified by the association Memento and the Estonian Institute of Historical Memory in the Dominican Monastery in Tallinn. It will take about 21 hours. Photo Eero Vabamägi, Postimees

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

Recitation of the names of the victims of communism

04.09.2025, Tallinn. 150 well-known people in Estonia will read aloud the names of 22,600 victims of communism, identified by the association Memento and the Estonian Institute of Historical Memory in the Dominican Monastery in Tallinn. It will take about 21 hours. Photo Eero Vabamägi, Postimees

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Pilgrims Gather for Sacred Friday - Iraq

Worshippers gather for prayers on a Blessed Friday night at the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on July 31, 2025. Illuminated by thousands of lights and filled with echoes of Quranic recitation and religious chants, the site draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond. Karbala holds deep spiritual importance for Shia Muslims as the resting place of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. On Friday evenings, especially during the sacred months of the Islamic calendar, the shrine becomes a focal point of devotion, reflection, and community gathering. The rituals reinforce collective memory and spiritual solidarity in one of the holiest cities in Shia Islam. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Summer Quran Courses for Children - Iraq

Summer Quran Courses for Children - Iraq

A religious instructor leads a group of boys in recitation exercises at the Al-Abbas's shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on June 2, 2025. The activity is part of the shrine’s annual summer courses aimed at fostering Quranic literacy and Islamic values among youth aged 7 to 17 during school holidays. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Summer Quran Courses for Children - Iraq

Summer Quran Courses for Children - Iraq

A religious instructor leads a group of boys in recitation exercises at the Al-Abbas's shrine in Karbala, Iraq, on June 2, 2025. The activity is part of the shrine’s annual summer courses aimed at fostering Quranic literacy and Islamic values among youth aged 7 to 17 during school holidays. Photo by Samer Al Husseini/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Vatican: Thousands Gather for Pope Leo XIV’s First Regina Caeli Prayers 3

Thousands of people gathered at Vatican's St. Peter's Square on Sunday, May 11 as Pope Leo XIV held his first Regina Caeli prayers.

Vatican: Thousands Gather for Pope Leo XIV’s First Regina Caeli Prayers

Thousands of people gathered at Vatican's St. Peter's Square on Sunday, May 11 as Pope Leo XIV held his first Regina Caeli prayers.

Vatican: Thousands Gather for Pope Leo XIV’s First Regina Caeli Prayers 2

Thousands of people gathered at Vatican's St. Peter's Square on Sunday, May 11 as Pope Leo XIV held his first Regina Caeli prayers.

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas leads the recitation of the rosary for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome where the Pope is buried, in front of the painting of Salus Populi Romani. Rome, Italy, on April 26, 2025. Photo by Marco Iacobucci/IPA/ABACAPRESS.COM

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Nuns in prayer. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas leads the recitation of the rosary for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome where the Pope is buried, in front of the painting of the Salus populi romani. Rome, Italy, on April 26, 2025. Photo by Marco Iacobucci/IPA/ABACAPRESS.COM

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Nuns in prayer. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas leads the recitation of the rosary for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome where the Pope is buried, in front of the painting of the Salus populi romani. Rome, Italy, on April 26, 2025. Photo by Marco Iacobucci/IPA/ABACAPRESS.COM

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Rosary Recitation for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - Rome

Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas leads the recitation of the rosary for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome where the Pope is buried, in front of the painting of Salus Populi Romani. Rome, Italy, on April 26, 2025. Photo by Marco Iacobucci/IPA/ABACAPRESS.COM

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Where Pope Francis Has Chosen to Be Buried

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Where Pope Francis Has Chosen to Be Buried

File photo - Pope Francis waves the crowd after the recitation of a Rosary for peace at the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica (St Mary Major) in Rome, Italy on October 6, 2024. Pope Francis said his tomb is ‘already prepared’ in the chapel Paolina of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Unlike the majority of popes who have been interred beneath St Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis has reportedly made arrangements to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome's Esquilino district. The basilica, one of the four major papal basilicas, has historically been the resting place of seven pope. Photo by (EV) Vatican Media/ABACAPRESS.COM