Abstract
This paper deals with the sacred object of ‘alam in the light of the Shi’a religious
doctrine, group and individual religious experiences. The battle of Karbala is the most
important symbolic event which serves as a religious model among the Shi’as of the
world. Aim of this paper is an attempt to highlight the significance of ‘alam in Shi’a
rituals of daily life. This exploratory study was carried out in district Chakwal, Pakistan,
which is predominantly populated by Shi’a Muslims. Direct observation technique was
used to collect the field data and the findings of the study are mainly based on the
empirical evidence. This paper, first describes the symbolic meanings of ‘alam. Secondly,
it discusses ‘alam rituals in Pakistan and importance as symbol in Shi’a rituals. Thirdly,
it explains the ‘alam in Shi’a historical perspective. It also discusses the ‘alam colours in
detail. This also paper traces ethno-historic evidence of ‘alam symbol and rituals as
mannat in Chakwal.
FAIZA IQBAL. (2015) ‘Alam in the Shi’a Traditions of Pakistan, Pakistan Heritage, Volume 7 , Issue 1.
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