Introduction – Muharram ul Haram
Muharram ul Haram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is highly significant for Muslims around the world. Muslims consider the first ten days, in particular, highly important. These days hold deep spiritual meaning and are filled with religious rituals. In this blog post, we will explore the Significance of Muharram ul Haram in Islam and shed light on the practices and rituals related to this period.
The Sacred Month of Muharram ul Haram
This sacred month is hidden in an atmosphere of high devotion where Muslims around the world engage in practices that deepen their faith and connection with Allah (SWT).
Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA)
Imam Hussain (RA) was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his followers in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Along with his family and a small group of loyal companions, he stood against the unjust rule of the Umayyad caliph, Yazid. The forces of Yazid martyred Imam Hussain (RA) and his followers, and it has become a symbol of resistance against oppression and injustice.
Click on the link to learn more about the life of Imam Hussain (RA).
Martyrdom of Hazrat Umar (RA)
A strong and just leader, Hazrat Umar (RA), the second Caliph of Islam, is revered for his contributions to the faith. During his ten-year reign, the Islamic empire grew tremendously, surrounding Persia and vast swathes of the Byzantine Empire. Sadly, he was assassinated on the first day of Muharram in the year 23 AH. His death was a significant loss for the Muslim community.
Death of Khwaja Hasan Basri (RA)
Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri (RA) was a prominent Islamic scholar and preacher. He was known for his piety and influence in the early development of Islamic thought. He was born in Medina in 642 CE and is considered one of the most important figures of the Tabi’un. Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri (RA) passed away in the 4th Muharram year 110 AH in Basra, where he resided for much of his life.
Imam Zainul Abideen (RA)
Hazrat Ali ibn Husayn (RA), also known as Imam Zainul Abideen (RA). He was the only surviving son of Imam Husayn (RA) after the Battle of Karbala. Despite witnessing immense suffering, he became a beacon of knowledge and piety. His life exemplifies the power of forgiveness and the importance of carrying on the legacy of righteousness, even amidst loss. He is believed to have passed away on the 25th of Muharram, in 95 AH.
To learn more about the life and challenges that Imam Zainul Abideen (RA) faced after the Battle of Karbala: Imam Zain ul Abideen (RA): A Life of Patience and Piety.
Death of Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA)
Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA), a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), played a significant role in preserving Islamic traditions. He served the Prophet (SAW) for ten years as a young boy, earning the nickname “Khadim al-Nabi” (servant of the Prophet (SAW). Witnessing the Prophet’s (SAW) daily life and teachings firsthand. Hazrat Anas (RA) became a vital source of Hadith (narrations) after the Prophet’s (SAW) passing. He lived a long and respected life, passing on 28th Muharram in the year 93 AH.
The Special Day of Ashura
The 9th and 10th days of Muharram-ul-Haram hold special importance. The tenth day of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, holds the significance of Muharram-ul-Haram in Islam. On this day, we remember how Allah Almighty saved Prophet Musa (AS) and his people from a mean ruler called Pharaoh. And the Additionally, it also holds significance for the Islamic community as it marks the day.
The Fasting on the Day of Ashura
When the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) observed fast, he encouraged his followers to do the same. Ashura is a time of intense grief and reflection on the values of the sacrifices of Karbala, good deeds, and the struggle against injustice.
Click on the link and Learn more about Fasting on Ashura in Islam.
Narrated by Hazrat Aisha (RA):
The people used to fast on ‘Ashura (the tenth day of the month of Muharram) before the fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory. And on that day the Kaaba used to be covered with a cover. When Allah Almighty made the fasting of the month of Ramadan compulsory, Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said, “Whoever wishes to fast (on the day of ‘Ashura’) may do so; and whoever wishes to leave it can do so.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1592)
Increase Worship and Devotion
- Fasting: The most widely observed act in Muharram is voluntary fasting, particularly on the Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram). You can also fast on other days throughout the month to increase your piety.
- Prayer: Devote more time to prayer throughout Muharram. You can perform additional night prayers (Tahajjud) or recite special supplications (Duas).
- Quran Recitation: Reading and reflecting on the Quran is a powerful way to connect with Allah (SWT). Aim to read a specific portion of the Quran daily or participate in group recitations.
Personal Reflection
- Learn about Ashura: Educate yourself about the events of Ashura, the Battle of Karbala, the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), and other Historical events this month. Understanding the historical context deepens the significance of the day.
- Self-Improvement: Muharram is the time for reflection and self-improvement. Reflect on your actions and strive to become a better Muslim by strengthening your faith and character.
- Set Goals: With the beginning of the new year, set personal goals for the coming year that will help you grow spiritually. This could be memorizing more of the Quran, praying more regularly, or cultivating better Islamic manners.
Be Kind and Help Others
The first ten days of Muharram ul Haram are a time for increased charity and compassion. Doing good deeds and giving to those in need makes us feel closer to Allah (SWT) and brings happiness to others. Simple acts of kindness go a long way. Offer help to those around you, forgive someone who has wronged you, or mend a broken relationship.
Avoiding Conflict and Controversy
It is essential to maintain peace and respect among different Islamic traditions. It is a time for unity and understanding, promoting the essence of Islam’s message of compassion, tolerance, and brotherhood.
If you want to learn more about the Battle of Karbala, you can read our blogs for more insights:
- The Causes of Karbala: Political, Religious, and Social Dimensions
- Lessons of Karbala: Justice, Unity, and Resilience
- Sermon of Hazrat Zainab Bint Ali (RA) in the Court of Yazid
Conclusion
The first ten days of Muharram ul Haram in Islam are of great significance, serving as a time for reflection, repentance, and seeking closeness to Allah Almighty. The Day of Ashura, in particular, holds religious significance, reminding Muslims of the struggle for justice and the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of oppression. Through fasting, acts of worship, or expressions of sorrow, Muslims engage in practices that deepen their connection to their faith and their community during this period. By understanding and observing the significance of Muharram ul Haram, Muslims can gain spiritual enrichment and draw closer to Allah (SWT).
