The focus of this period of mourning is the remembrance of the so-called Karbala event, in which Imam Hüseyin and 72 of his followers met their deaths at the hands of Caliph Yezit's troops for standing up for justice in 680 AD.

Mutual respect, compassion and agreement (Rızalık) for harmonious coexistence among people are more important than ever in these times. The Alevi fast provides for 12 days and nights of mainly restraint, mindfulness and reflection. The renunciation of meat, clear liquids and festivities are in the foreground.

At the end of the twelve-day fast, a sweet dish called Aşure is prepared and distributed to acquaintances, relatives and neighbours. This dish, consisting of twelve different ingredients, is also seen as a gift in memory of the Twelve Imams. Among other things, it is also a sign of gratitude that Zeynel Abidin, Imam Hüseyin's son, survived the Karbala event due to his illness, which allowed Imam Ali's genealogy to continue.