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18 August 2024 |Mahjubah MagazineRitual Space of Arba%u2019een:The ritual space of Arba%u2019een provides a conducive environment for women to connect with Shia identity models such as Lady Zainab. By participating in this space, women not only strengthen their identity values as Shia women but also have the opportunity to internalize new meanings and identity characteristics through reflective and re-evaluative engagement in a supportive religious environment with other Shia Muslims.The spectrum of women present in the ritual space of Arba%u2019een includes active participants and promoters of religious culture. Their presence allows them to draw inspiration from historical figures like Lady Zainab and Lady Fatimah, thereby reproducing their religious beliefs and values. They refine and extract new meanings and values appropriate to their contemporary era from the examples and teachings of the Imams. The ritual space of Arba%u2019een plays a crucial role in shaping the identity perception of various social groups and serves as a platform for linking belief systems and behaviors with the construction of religious practices.The presented article analyzes the social identity of female pilgrims in the Arba%u2019een field, examining various identity characteristics. The findings are presented in four main sections: religious beliefs, attitudes and values, social roles, and fundamental trust. These sections are detailed as follows:1. Religious BeliefsThe female pilgrims at Arba%u2019een hold specific religious beliefs that generally encompass fundamental Islamic principles such as monotheism, prophethood, the afterlife, justice, and leadership. They believe in the necessity of religious practices such as prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and pilgrimage, as well as observing modesty and respecting others%u2019 rights. These beliefs, along with their faith in the leadership of the Ahl al-Bayt (Household of the Prophet), play a significant role in shaping their religious identity.Example: One of the interviewees referred to the impact of pilgrimage as a sacred legacy from Lady Zahra and Lady Zainab, while another mentioned her efforts to follow Islamic models, including Lady Fatimah and Lady Zainab.2. Attitudes and ValuesThe attitudes of female pilgrims towards identity models such as Lady Fatimah and Lady Zainab are highly significant. Many of them strive to shape their identity by emulating the personal and social characteristics of these figures. This attitude includes efforts to embody the traits of these revered personalities and adhere to their teachings.Example: One interviewee stated that she is working towards emulating the personal qualities of Lady Fatimah and Lady Zainab, whereas another admitted that despite her efforts, she has not been able to reach the level of their lives.3. Social RolesFemale pilgrims at Arba%u2019een play crucial roles in various social and cultural domains. Roles such as being a wife, mother, and engaging in social, cultural, and political activities are highly significant to them. Some women believe that their roles as wives and mothers take precedence over other roles, while still valuing their social and cultural contributions.Example: One interviewee highlighted the importance of her role as a wife and the upbringing of her children, whereas another emphasized that social and cultural activities provide her with energy and vitality.4. Fundamental TrustFundamental trust is another crucial identity marker for female pilgrims. This trust supports their religious beliefs and efforts towards religious and cultural goals, helping them remain hopeful and resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. It also encompasses trust in their social and cultural roles and the positive impact these roles have on society.Example: One interviewee mentioned that despite difficulties and setbacks, she has never lost her determination and hope, believing that fulfilling religious duties is important regardless of the outcomes.These findings highlight the significance of religious beliefs, attitudes towards identity models, social roles, and fundamental trust in shaping the social identity of female pilgrims at Arba%u2019een and offer a deeper and more comprehensive analysis of these aspects.5. Body CareSome interviewees emphasized the importance of body care, noting that it should be attended to from childhood. However, others have faced issues due to a lack of attention to this matter from a young age. Exercise and body care are considered essential for maintaining health and bodily beauty.