Making sense of the dangers and challenges of the world that surrounded us were always crucial for the survival of our species. The concept of a sacred force/s controlling our destinies helped balance our anxieties and the rituals that derived from that belief, helped individuals find a sense of belonging in their community.

However there are many that still find comfort and meaning in their lives by believing in a sacred higher power and manifesting their faith through rituals.

Mexico

Holly week in Chiapas, time to reflect about the ultimate sacrifice and resurrection.

Carefully crafted cross shaped palm branches are prepared on the streets just in time for Palm Sunday. There are also parades across neighbourhoods featuring the devil and the betrayal of Judas. Pre hispanic rituals are often present mixed with traditional Catholic ones resulting on an accepted balance between the different indigenous groups and the Catholic Church. In churches all images of Jesus will remain veiled until the Sunday of resurrection.

It is Good Friday, there is a somber and solemn mood all around. The Procession of Silence is about to start in Morelia. The only sound you can hear is the drums setting the pace for the procession.

Christ has been crucified and the procession highlights the suffering and heartbreak of the Virgin for the death of her son.

The participants are members of the different confraternities, men, women and children. They walk in a sad silence, many hooded as a sign of their sacrifice and humility.

Iran

It is early morning in Tehran. Crowds wearing black are lining the streets in anticipation. The mourning rituals that mark the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the prophet Mohammad will soon start. Hussein was killed along with his family and supporters in 680 AD during the battle of Karbala in Iraq.

During Ashura there is a strong community spirit. Families, neighbours and friends gather to perform the rituals and spend time together.

It is important to say that in Iran (unlike Iraq where the men bleed profusely during Ashura) it is forbidden to cause any injuries to yourself during the rituals.

Men gather together to hold the very heavy Alam which can weigh up to 300 kg. The men with the zanjeers or chains follow closely, moving in a synchronised harmonious way.

Moving the Alam requires strength and skill to keep the balance. Some of the men intensify their bodybuilding training a month before to be able to carry the weight. Each man wearing bodybuilder belts, takes turns and can only move the heavy Alam a few meters until somebody else takes over. You can see the effort, determination and the help given within each group.

For those who don’t have the zanjeers or chains and for everyone else who is watching, it is traditional to touch your heart at the same rhythm.

Children are also allowed to participate under the attentive eyes of their parents. Even girls if they are at a very young age.

This is a religious tradition that runs across generations and that is how it is kept alive. Although there are many young people who do not participate and even avoid Ashura, there are always others that are willing and happy to participate. In the evening in some neighbourhoods, lamb meat from the sheep killed earlier will be cooked outside in huge pans, alongside rice and vegetables. The food will be served to the participants and anybody that wishes for free.

Around the city there are also performances reenacting the sacrifice of Imam Hussein. The actors tell the story in a dramatic way and the public reacts emotionally, many people breaking down crying. At the end of the night many light candles near the mosques and sanctuaries.