Why do shias beat themselves

Mourners use sharp objects such as knives or chains which have blades attached to them and other weapons in acts of self-flagellation while chanting 'Ya Hussein' loudly. On the other hand, Sunni Muslims observe this day with a peaceful fast that lasts from sunrise to sunset. They also hold gatherings to remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussein and attend special prayers in mosques. Sunni Muslims commemorate the day through voluntary fasting. Some in the Shia community mark the day by flagellating themselves with chains and the blunt ends of swords.

This is intended to exemplify the suffering Hussein experienced shortly before his beheading. This battle is of utmost historical importance as it resulted in the martyrdom of Hussein Ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the son of Ali. He was defeated and massacred in this battle. Hussein Ibn Ali is regarded highly by the Shias since he was a descendant of Muhammad. The Shias dedicate this month to mourn the memory of the son of Ali. Out of deference, they choose to avoid any festivity and celebration.

The Shias do not fast on Ashura. They make a conscious attempt to recite the Ziyarat Ashura in the holy month, which is a prayer to Hussein Ibn Ali, however, they do try to read this text throughout the year as well.

The reading of the Ziyarat is not the only activity performed on the Ashura since for years Shia men have taken part in self-flagellating themselves during Ashura. This ritual is performed all over the world.

While some hurt themselves by cutting themselves with knives, blades or even chains, others cover themselves with mud and light bonfires. The use of knives to cut bodies is banned in Iran and Lebanon but is practised in countries like Bangladesh and India.

Such leaders encourage people to donate blood. The killing of Hussein was an event that led to the split in Islam into two main sects - Sunnis and Shias. In early Islamic history the Shia were a political faction known as the "party of Ali" that supported Ali, son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the fourth caliph temporal and spiritual ruler of the Muslim community. The great schism between Sunnis and Shias occurred when Imam Ali did not succeed as leader of the Islamic community at the death of the Prophet.

Ali was murdered in AD and his chief opponent Muawiya became caliph.