The History in Procession

This article investigates emerging patterns of pilgrimage in the context Shiʿite Islam and studies case Arbaʿyin based on two weeks participatory observation, walking from al-Faw peninsula far south Iraq to city Karbalâ. I identify three narratives this pilgrimage—tribal, ideological orthodox—and discuss their commonalities differentials. The maʿāzīb system tribal narrative is core comparison, yet each interrelated with others through central themes war, political religious seminaries. In last section, explore recent transformations these as well pilgrims’ configuration. presents itself a rival pilgrimage. Although social structure system, it struggles new challenges form content.