10 things to do in Shrine of Sayyida Sakina (حرم سيدة سكينة) An Najaf al Ashraf Iraq
The Shrine of Sayyida Sakina (حرم سيدة سكينة) in An Najaf Al Ashraf, Iraq is a sacred site for many Shia Muslims. It is the burial place of the granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad, Sayyida Sakina, and is a revered pilgrimage destination. Every year millions of people from around the world visit the shrine to pay their respects and seek blessings. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Shrine of Sayyida Sakina.
1. Visit the Shrine of Sayyida Sakina: The Shrine of Sayyida Sakina is the main attraction of the pilgrimage. The shrine is a beautiful building with a golden dome and minarets. Inside the shrine is the tomb of Sayyida Sakina, which is decorated with colorful carpets and surrounded by a marble enclosure. Visitors can pay their respects by touching the tomb and praying for blessings.
2. Take a Tour of the Shrine: The Shrine of Sayyida Sakina offers guided tours of the shrine and its grounds. The tour includes information about the history of the shrine and the life of Sayyida Sakina. Visitors can also visit the shrine’s library and see ancient manuscripts and artifacts.
3. Participate in a Procession: Every year, millions of pilgrims participate in a procession that starts from the Shrine of Sayyida Sakina and ends at the Shrine of Imam Ali in Najaf. The procession is a colorful event that includes music, prayers, and chants. The procession is usually held on the 10th of Muharram, which is the first month of the Islamic calendar.
4. Attend a Religious Ceremony: The Shrine of Sayyida Sakina hosts a variety of religious ceremonies throughout the year. These ceremonies include special prayers and sermons by religious leaders and scholars. Visitors can also participate in the ceremonies and listen to the lectures and prayers.
5. Visit the Museum: The Shrine of Sayyida Sakina has a museum that displays artifacts and documents related to the shrine and Sayyida Sakina. The museum also has a library that contains books and manuscripts about the shrine and Sayyida Sakina.
6. Shop at the Souq: An Najaf Al Ashraf is home to many markets and bazaars, including the Souq of Sayyida Sakina. The Souq has a variety of shops that sell souvenirs, religious items, and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can also find food stalls and restaurants in the Souq.
7. Explore the City: An Najaf Al Ashraf is a beautiful city with many historical sites and attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s old neighborhoods, visit its many mosques and shrines, and take a walk along the banks of the Euphrates River.
8. Visit the Shrine of Imam Ali: The Shrine of Imam Ali is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Iraq. The shrine is located in Najaf and is the burial place of the first Shia Imam, Ali ibn Abi Talib. Visitors can pay their respects at the shrine and explore its many courtyards and gardens.
9. Visit the Shrine of Imam Husayn: The Shrine of Imam Husayn is another important pilgrimage site in Iraq. The shrine is located in Karbala and is the burial place of the third Shia Imam, Husayn ibn Ali. Visitors can pay their respects at the shrine and explore its many courtyards and gardens.
10. Visit the Shrine of Abbas ibn Ali: The Shrine of Abbas ibn Ali is located in Karbala and is the burial place of the fourth Shia Imam, Abbas ibn Ali. Visitors can pay their respects at the shrine and explore its many courtyards and gardens. The shrine is especially popular during the annual pilgrimage of Arbaeen.
Visiting the Shrine of Sayyida Sakina in An Najaf Al Ashraf, Iraq is an unforgettable experience. Millions of pilgrims visit the shrine every year to pay their respects and seek blessings. Whether you’re a religious traveler or just looking to explore a beautiful city, An Najaf Al Ashraf has something for everyone.