The moment a small boy has a gash cut into his head as part of Muslim ceremony commemorating the death of the Prophet's grandson

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT. This picture shows the moment a small boy has a gash cut in his head as part of a Muslim Ashura ceremony.

The tradition, which commemorates the death of the Prophet Mohammad's grandson, is seen by some Shi'ite Muslims as away of washing away their sins.

The Day of Ashura is a national holiday in some Muslim countries, with thousands taking part in annual rituals which include people whipping and cutting themselves with chains and knives. #MORE pics below:

Young children were seen covered in their own blood as they wielded large blades in a ceremony in Baghdad

Muslims took part in the event to commemorate Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammad, who died in battle 1,300 years ago.