Published By: Nibandh Vinod
Last Updated: July 28, 2023, 17:03 IST
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic New Year. (Image: Shutterstock)
Muslims mourn on the tenth day of Muharram to mark the death of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hussain Ibn Ali in the battle of Karbala back in 680 CE.
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and holds immense religious significance. It commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina. However, on the tenth day of this sacred month, Muslims mourn the death of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Hussain Ibn Ali, who was martyred during the battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Muharram started in India on July 20 this year. Both Sunni and Shia Muslims consider the month of Muharram historically important.
The History Of Muharram
The Battle of Karbala was a conflict between Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and the ruling Umayyad army. It occurred during the caliphate of Yazid I, the second Umayyad caliph.
Imam Hussein ibn Ali and his followers were en route to present-day Iraq but were intercepted by a large Umayyad army in Karbala. On the tenth day of Muharram, Imam Hussein and his followers valiantly fought against the Umayyad forces, ultimately meeting a tragic end. Muharram is dedicated to remembering and honoring the sacrifices of Imam Hussein.
The Significance of Muharram
Muharram, as the start of the Islamic New Year, symbolizes new beginnings. The word “Muharram” itself means “forbidden”, implying that Muslims abstain from activities like warfare during this sacred month. Instead, they utilize this time for prayer and self-reflection.
How Muharram is Observed?
Sunni and Shia Muslims observe Muharram in different ways. Shia Muslims participate in mourning processions called Majlis held in mosques, Hussainiyas, or community centers, where they listen to sermons by religious leaders. They may also engage in self-flagellation or chest-beating as a means of expressing their sorrow. Shia Muslims also practice abstinence and fasting during this period.
On the other hand, Sunnis observe a fast on the tenth day of Muharram, following the example of Prophet Muhammad. Some Sunnis may choose to fast on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram, known as Ashura, based on the Prophet Muhammad’s recommendation. Furthermore, it was during the month of Muharram that Allah saved the Children of Israel from Pharaoh.
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