Arbaeen in Numbers: The Meaning of Forty in Islam


The number forty (40) holds a special and mysterious place in Islamic teachings and many other religious traditions. In the Qur’an and Hadith, this number appears repeatedly in important contexts. It also plays a key role in spiritual training, moral development, and the path of self-purification. One of the greatest examples is Arbaeen, the 40th day after Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (a).

Let’s explore the philosophy behind this number, its significance in Islamic culture, and some surprising facts that make the number forty so unique.

1. The Number Forty in the Qur’an

The Qur’an mentions forty in several significant situations:

Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Forty Nights

Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:51):

“And [recall] when We appointed for Moses forty nights…”

This period was a time of spiritual preparation before Prophet Musa received the tablets and spoke to Allah.

Forty Years: The Age of Full Maturity

In Surah Al-Ahqaf (46:15), Allah says:

“…Until, when he reaches his full strength and reaches forty years…”

This shows that forty marks the peak of intellectual and spiritual maturity.

2. Forty in Islamic Teachings

Islamic narrations emphasize the power of forty:

Purification of the Soul

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever dedicates himself sincerely to Allah for forty days, streams of wisdom will flow from his heart to his tongue.”

The Sign of a True Believer

Imam Hasan al-Askari (a) said:

“The signs of a believer are five: praying 51 rak’ahs (daily prayers and recommended prayers), visiting Arbaeen, wearing a ring on the right hand, prostrating on soil, and saying Bismillah aloud.”

This shows the great importance of Ziyarat Arbaeen.

3. Why Forty? The Philosophy Behind It

Forty represents completion and spiritual stability. In Islam and Sufism, any program for self-purification or deep transformation often involves forty days. Why?

Time for Real Change

Modern psychology also suggests that forming a new habit or breaking an old one takes about 40 days.

A Period of Spiritual Growth

Just as the Qur’an points to the age of forty as a stage of maturity, spiritual journeys also need this duration.

Divine Tests and Preparation

Many prophets spent forty days in worship and solitude before receiving divine missions.

4. Examples of Forty in Islamic Tradition

Forty Hadith: Scholars encourage memorizing forty authentic hadith for spiritual growth.

Chilla (Forty-Day Seclusion): Practiced by mystics for purification.

Forty Martyrs: Duas and gatherings of forty people hold special significance.

Arbaeen of Imam Hussain (a): Forty days after Ashura, the message of Karbala became a movement for justice.

5. Arbaeen of Imam Hussain – The Living Message

Why is Arbaeen so important?

Because it preserved the message of Ashura. If Karbala had ended on the day of Ashura, it might have been forgotten. But through Arbaeen, the mission of Imam Hussain spread far and wide.

Today, Arbaeen is the largest peaceful gathering in the world, where millions walk to Karbala out of love and devotion—without media hype or political agendas. This is a living miracle of faith and unity.

6. Surprising Facts About Forty

Human Habits: It usually takes 40 days to adopt or change a habit.

Biological Renewal: Many human cells regenerate in about 40 days.

Other Religions: Prophet Isa (Jesus) fasted for 40 days, and the flood of Prophet Nuh (Noah) lasted 40 days and nights.

Conclusion

The number forty is not just a number. It symbolizes completion, spiritual maturity, patience, and transformation. In Islam, it appears in the Qur’an, Hadith, and major events. Among them, Arbaeen stands as a shining symbol of truth, sacrifice, and unity—a message that continues to inspire hearts across the world.