Lebanese Shi’ites ‘Defiantly' Mark Ashura

Some members of the Amal movement, a Lebanese political party, participate in blood-letting and self flagellation to mark the day, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

Troops of scouts participate in the march, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

During Ashura, funds are collected for local mosques and other locally-focused causes, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

This boy's head gear says "We don't accept humiliation," Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

Young Shias commemorating Ashura prepare to march, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

Thousands march to mark the day of Ashura in Beirut’s Hezbollah stronghold of Dahiyeh, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

Shias mourn the suffering and martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali, who died more than 1,300 years ago - a death that began the schism between Shia and Sunni Muslims, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)

With Ashura festivals often targeted by extremists, security was tight, Beirut, Lebanon, Nov. 4, 2014. (John Owens / VOA)