What is Muharram?
When it will be Celebrated in 2024
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, marking the start of the Islamic New Year. It holds significant importance as one of the four sacred months in Islam. The name “Muharram” means “forbidden,” indicating that warfare is prohibited during this month according to the teachings of the Qur’an.
Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and devotion during this month, reflecting on its significance and the blessings associated with this holy month. Learn everything about this month.
When is Muharram 2024?
In 2024, Muharam begins on Sunday, 7th July 2024. It is the first month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the sighting of the new moon to determine the start of a new month.Â
It is a sacred month in Islam, during which the rewards for good deeds are multiplied, and any wrongdoing is considered more serious. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and remembering the sacrifices of the Prophet Muhammad’s family, particularly the martyrdom of his grandson, Imam Hussein.
The Day of Ashura
The Day of Ashura observed on the 10th of this month, holds great significance in the Islamic calendar. It is regarded as one of the most virtuous days of the year. This day is primarily known for two major events in Islamic history.
Firstly, it marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), in the Battle of Karbala. Imam Hussain’s stand against tyranny and oppression and his ultimate sacrifice for the principles of justice and righteousness are deeply revered by Muslims worldwide. His martyrdom symbolises steadfastness and resilience in the face of adversity.
Secondly, the Day of Ashura is also associated with the liberation of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of the Pharaoh. According to Islamic tradition, Allah parted the sea for Prophet Musa (AS), allowing him and his followers to escape from the pursuing army of the Pharaoh, who drowned in the sea as a result.
In addition to fasting on the 10th of this month, fasting on the 9th of this month is recommended. It is based on the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who fasted on the 10th of this month and recommended fasting on the 9th to distinguish it from the Jewish practice of fasting only on the 10th. If one misses fasting on the 9th, they can fast on the 11th as a substitute.
The Day of Ashura serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for truth and justice, even in the face of adversity. It is a day of reflection, mourning, and spiritual reawakening for Muslims, who draw inspiration from the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (AS) and Prophet Musa (AS).
Commemorating Muharram
It holds a special significance in Islam as one of the four sacred months ordained by Allah (SWT). Referred to as ‘the month of Allah,’ it is considered one of the most blessed months in the Islamic calendar. This month’s history is rich, with many important events having occurred during this month.
In the Islamic calendar, which consists of 12 months, it is a month that may not be as widely known as Ramadan or Dhul Hijjah. However, it is highly regarded in Hadith, where it is honoured as the month of Allah (SWT), a title not given to any other month.
It holds both religious and historical significance for Muslims. It marks the hijrah (emigration) of Muslims to Medina in 622 CE, which led to the establishment of the first Islamic state. This event holds great importance in the history of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the virtues of fasting in this month. He stated that the most virtuous fasting after Ramadan is fasting this month. Additionally, the Prophet (PBUH) mentioned that the night prayer is the most virtuous prayer after the obligatory prayer.
The Qur’an also mentions the sanctity of certain months, including this month, emphasizing twelve months in the Islamic calendar, with fou Allah is with the righteous.
These teachings highlight the importance of this month in the Isr of them being sacred. Muslims are reminded not to wrong themselves during these sacred months and to stand firm against those who oppose them, knowing thatlamic faith, encouraging Muslims to reflect on its significance and to observe it with reverence and devotion.
Fasting on the 10th day of Ashura
Fasting this month holds special significance for Muslims, particularly on the 10th day of Ashura. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged fasting on this day to commemorate the events of Ashura and seek Allah’s blessings.
It is also recommended to fast on the 9th of this month, alongside the 10th, based on a Hadith where the Prophet (PBUH) expressed a desire to fast on both days. However, he passed away before he could fulfil this intention. Fasting on the 9th and 10th of this month was seen as a way to distinguish the Muslim practice from that of the Jewish and Christian communities.
The Prophet (PBUH) held the day of Ashura in high regard, mentioning it along with the month of Ramadan as days when fasting was particularly emphasized. It highlights the importance of fasting on Ashura and its place in Islamic tradition.
Virtues
The sacred month offers us a special opportunity to seek the mercy and favour of Allah SWT. It is a time when every day presents us with the chance to earn more rewards but also carries the risk of accumulating more sins through our bad deeds.
Numerous virtues are associated with this month and simple actions to benefit from its blessings. Here are some recommended practices or Sunnah during this month:
Fast
Keep a fast on the 9th and 10th of this month (the day of Ashura) or the 10th and 11th of this month. Fasting during these days expiates sins.
Read the Qur’an
If you cannot fast, reading the Qur’an or engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) can help you experience the blessings of this month. Remember, any gathering for the sake of Allah SWT will be filled with blessings, and the angels will join you in such gatherings.
Give Regular Sadaqah
It marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, making it the perfect time to make resolutions and establish good habits like giving regular charity. Doing so allows you to gain blessings throughout the year.
Importance of Month
FAQs
Why is fasting on the day of Ashura recommended?
Fasting on the day of Ashura is recommended as it is believed to expiate sins and bring blessings. It is also a way to commemorate the events of Ashura, including the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and the liberation of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israe
Are there any other recommended practices during Muharram?
Besides fasting, Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship by reading the Qur’an, engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and giving regular charity (Sadaqah)
Why is it called the “month of Allah”?
It is called the “month of Allah” in Hadith, highlighting its special status and significance in Islam.
How should Muslims observe Muharram-ul-haram?
Muslims should observe this month with increased devotion, reflection, and acts of worship. They should also remember the sacrifices made by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family, particularly the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) in the Battle of Karbala.
Conclusion
The first month of the Islamic calendar is a time of reflection, devotion, and remembrance in the Islamic faith. It marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is one of the four sacred months in Islam.
The month is particularly significant for its association with the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and the Battle of Karbala. Muslims observe this month with fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, reflecting on the lessons of sacrifice, courage, and devotion exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family.
