The first pilgrim to Karbala: Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari and the first Arba’een

Forty days after the tragedy of Karbala, one elderly companion made a journey that would echo through history.

With no army, no position of power, and despite his old age and blindness, Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travelled to the land where Imam Hussain (as) and his companions had been martyred.

His journey was not one of politics or victory. It was a journey of love, loyalty, and remembrance.

Standing at the grave of Imam Hussain (as), Jabir became the first known pilgrim to Karbala after Ashura, beginning a tradition of devotion that continues through millions of believers today.

A journey of love

Following the events of Ashura, the land of Karbala became a symbol of sacrifice and resistance.

Forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travelled from Medina to Karbala to visit the grave of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww).

Jabir was one of the respected companions of the Prophet (saww) and had reached an advanced age. Historical accounts also mention that he had lost his eyesight, yet his love for Imam Hussain (as) gave him the strength to make the difficult journey.

When he reached Karbala, he was guided to the grave of Imam Hussain (as). There, he placed his hands upon the soil, offered his salaam, and mourned the tragedy that had taken place.

His journey showed that love for the Ahlulbayt (as) is not limited by age, difficulty, or distance.

The first Arba’een pilgrimage

Jabir’s visit to Karbala became the first known Arba’een pilgrimage.

The word Arba’een means “forty” and refers to the forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as). Each year, millions of believers from around the world travel to Karbala during this time to honour his sacrifice and renew their connection with his message.

What began with one elderly companion standing beside the grave of Imam Hussain (as) has become one of the largest gatherings of remembrance in the world.

Every step taken towards Karbala carries the same message that inspired Jabir: loyalty to truth, love for the Ahlulbayt (as), and commitment to the values for which Imam Hussain (as) sacrificed everything.

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari: A companion of the Prophet (saww)

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari held a special place among the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (saww).

He was present during important moments in early Islamic history and was among those who narrated teachings of the Prophet (saww). His life was marked by his dedication to preserving the message of Islam and supporting the family of the Prophet (saww).

His journey to Karbala demonstrated that his connection with the Ahlulbayt (as) was not simply through words, but through action.

At a time when many had turned away after the tragedy of Ashura, Jabir chose to stand in remembrance and honour the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (as).

A legacy that lives on

The journey of Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari continues to inspire believers more than fourteen centuries later.

Arba’een is not only a physical journey to Karbala. It is a spiritual commitment to the values Imam Hussain (as) defended: justice, dignity, compassion, and standing against oppression.

Millions of pilgrims who walk towards Karbala each year follow in the footsteps of Jabir, carrying the same love and devotion that brought him to the resting place of Imam Hussain (as).

His journey reminds us that true remembrance is not only about mourning the past. It is about allowing the lessons of Karbala to shape how we live today.

Lessons for believers today

Jabir’s journey teaches us that devotion requires action.

He did not allow his age, physical challenges, or the distance between Madinah and Karbala to prevent him from honouring Imam Hussain (as). His example reminds us that sincere love is demonstrated through commitment and sacrifice.

Today, believers can carry this same spirit by supporting those facing hardship, protecting the vulnerable, and standing for justice in their communities.

The message of Karbala continues whenever compassion replaces suffering and dignity is restored to those in need.

Continue the journey of Hussain (as)

The journey to Karbala began with one believer taking a step towards Imam Hussain (as).

Today, every act of kindness and generosity continues that same journey.

At The Zahra Trust, we are inspired by the values Imam Hussain (as) gave everything to protect: mercy, justice, and dignity. Through humanitarian aid, emergency support, and assistance for vulnerable communities, we work to bring hope to those who need it most.

This Muharram and Arba’een, honour the legacy of Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari by turning remembrance into action. Your support can help carry forward the message of Imam Hussain (as) and make a difference in the lives of others.

Frequently asked questions

Who was the first pilgrim to Karbala?

Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari is widely recognised as the first known pilgrim to visit the grave of Imam Hussain (as) after the tragedy of Karbala. He travelled to Karbala forty days after Ashura, beginning the tradition of Arba’een remembrance.

Why did Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari travel to Karbala?

Jabir travelled to Karbala out of his love and devotion for Imam Hussain (as). Despite his advanced age and blindness, he wanted to visit the grave of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww) and honour his sacrifice.

What is Arba’een?

Arba’een marks forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as) at Karbala. It is a time when millions of Muslims gather in remembrance and make pilgrimage to Karbala.

Why is the Arba’een pilgrimage important?

The Arba’een pilgrimage represents loyalty, remembrance, and commitment to the values of Imam Hussain (as). It continues the tradition begun by Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari when he visited Karbala after Ashura.

What did Jabir do when he reached the grave of Imam Hussain (as)?

According to historical accounts, Jabir offered his salaam to Imam Hussain (as), mourned his sacrifice, and expressed his devotion at his resting place.

What can we learn from Jabir ibn Abdillah al-Ansari?

Jabir’s journey teaches believers that true love for the Ahlulbayt (as) is shown through action, loyalty, and perseverance. His example reminds us to continue the message of Imam Hussain (as) through compassion and service.

How can we honour Imam Hussain’s (as) legacy today?

We can honour Imam Hussain’s (as) legacy by standing for justice, helping those in need, and serving humanity with compassion. Supporting charitable work is one way to continue the values that inspired the journey to Karbala.