One very important dimension of the Institution of Karbala overlooked by so many of us is its spiritual dimension. Scholars of gnosis ('Irfan), however, have contemplated over this dimension and narrated so much for us to learn and benefit. In order to make us closer to tangibly perceive the inner dimension of the Karbala event, perhaps the most eloquent revelation is that of Lady Zainab (peace be upon her), the daughter of Imam Ali (peace be upon him) when asked by Ibn Ziyad how Allah dealt with her brother (Imam Hussain) and family. It is narrated that when this was asked, she said: "I did not vision save beauty."

Processions (Juloos) in the holy months of Muharram and Safar have traditionally taken place in public by mourners of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) for centuries. The aim of such processions is to carry on the public relations work which was started by Lady Zainab and the holy women in Karbala, and create awareness of Imam Hussain's sacrifice and his message.

Ashura Day, the day whereby millions of Muslims all over the world commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Husain (A.S.) which took place in Karbala, Iraq on the 10th of Muharram 61 A.H. (680 AD), creates a historical symbol of unity and struggle against evil, injustice, and oppression.