Pronunciation: [ˈazə] (IPA) 
The word "Azza" is spelled with two "z" letters, which represents the voiced consonant /z/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This sound is produced by vibrating the vocal cords while air is forced through the narrow gap between the teeth and the tongue. The spelled "a" is pronounced as the vowel /æ/, which is commonly found in words like "cat" and "bat". Combined, the word "Azza" is pronounced as /ˈæzə/, with the stress on the first syllable.
Azza is a noun that refers to a traditional funeral ritual or ceremony conducted by Muslims in many Middle Eastern and African cultures, particularly in Egypt and Sudan. It is a collective mourning event that takes place after a loved one's death, aiming to pay respect, express grief, and support the deceased's family. The word "Azza" originates from Arabic and translates to "bereavement" or "mourning."
During Azza, family members, friends, and neighbors gather at the deceased person's home or a community center. They wear black or dark-colored clothes as a symbol of mourning and participate in various rituals. These may include reciting Quranic verses, offering prayers, and sharing stories or memories about the deceased. Azza often involves the expression of loud lamentations, wailing, and tears as a means of expressing grief and displaying sympathy.
The duration and practices of Azza can differ depending on regional customs, cultural traditions, and the deceased individual's prominence or religious affiliation. In many cases, Azza lasts for a predetermined period, commonly three days, during which mourners refrain from engaging in festive activities and instead focus on grieving and offering condolences to the bereaved family.
Azza serves as a crucial social function, uniting communities and providing emotional support to grieving families. It fosters a sense of solidarity and empathy, encouraging individuals to come together in times of loss and sorrow.
