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Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is the Month of Muharram?
- The Sacred Status of Muharram in the Quran
- The Day of Ashura: Historical Significance
- The Sunnah of Fasting on the Day of Ashura
- Authentic Hadith References
- Recommended Acts of Worship in Muharram
- Common Misconceptions and Mistakes
- Frequently Asked Questions (PAA)
- Salah Live Connection
Introduction
As the first month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, Muharram holds a unique position in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle and serves as a spiritual portal for renewal, reflection, and heightened devotion. In Sunni Islam, Muharram is celebrated not only as the start of the year but as one of the four sacred months designated by Allah (SWT) in the Holy Quran. The tenth day of this month, known as the Day of Ashura, is particularly historical, representing a day of salvation, victory, and remembrance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the historical background, spiritual virtues, and practical steps to maximize the blessings of Muharram.
What is the Month of Muharram?
The word Muharram literally means "forbidden" or "sacred."
In pre-Islamic Arabia, tribal warfare was a constant reality. However, the Arabs observed a traditional truce during four months of the year, during which all violence, raids, and conflict were strictly forbidden. This truce allowed pilgrims to travel to Makkah and trade without fear of attack.
When Islam was established, Allah (SWT) confirmed and purified this system of sacred months. Muharram was chosen by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the "Month of Allah" (Shahrullah), indicating its high status and sanctity.
The Sacred Status of Muharram in the Quran
The sanctity of Muharram is established directly in the Book of Allah.
Allah (SWT) says:
"Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them..." — Surah At-Tawbah, 9:36
In his commentary on this verse, the great companion Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) explained that while wronging oneself (sinning) is forbidden at all times, Allah made sins more grave during the sacred months, and likewise, He made good deeds and rewards more abundant.
The Day of Ashura: Historical Significance
The tenth day of Muharram is called Ashura (derived from the Arabic word Asharah, meaning ten).
The primary historical event associated with Ashura in Sunni theology is the salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh.
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Madinah in 622 CE, he found the Jewish tribes fasting on the tenth of Muharram. When he asked them about it, they replied:
"This is a righteous day; it is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Musa fasted on this day."
The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded:
"We have more right to Musa than you."
He then fasted on that day and instructed the Muslims to fast as well.
Additionally, in Islamic history, the 10th of Muharram is also marked by the tragic martyrdom of the Prophet's grandson, Imam Hussain ibn Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), along with his family and companions at the Battle of Karbala. Sunni Muslims honor his memory, courage, and sacrifice for justice by reflecting on his character, avoiding celebratory festivities on this day, and increasing their spiritual devotion.
The Sunnah of Fasting on the Day of Ashura
Fasting on the Day of Ashura is one of the most highly rewarded voluntary fasts in the Islamic calendar.
The Reward of Forgiveness
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the preceding year:
"Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before." — Narrated by Abi Qatadah, Collected in Sahih Muslim (Hadith 1162)
Sighting the 9th and 10th
To distinguish the Muslim fast from the Jewish tradition, the Prophet (peace be upon him) expressed his intention to fast on the 9th of Muharram as well, if he lived to the following year.
Therefore, scholars recommend that Muslims fast two days:
- The 9th and 10th of Muharram (Most recommended)
- OR the 10th and 11th of Muharram
This ensures compliance with the Sunnah and avoids imitating non-Islamic traditions.
Authentic Hadith References
The virtues of fasting during the entire month of Muharram are second only to the obligatory fasts of Ramadan.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"The best fasting after Ramadan is the month of Allah, Muharram, and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is the prayer at night (Tahajjud)." — Narrated by Abu Hurayrah, Collected in Sahih Muslim (Hadith 1163)
This Hadith highlights that Muharram is a prime season to practice voluntary fasting, helping to train the soul between Ramadans.
Recommended Acts of Worship in Muharram
To make the most of this sacred month, implement these spiritual practices:
- Observe Voluntary Fasts: Fast as many days as possible during the month, particularly the 9th and 10th.
- Perform Night Prayers (Qiyam): The Hadith links Muharram directly to the virtues of Tahajjud. Dedicate 15 minutes before Fajr to pray voluntary Rak'ahs.
- Increase Dhikr and Qur'an Recitation: Keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah and dedicate time to study the Quran.
- Give Sadaqah (Charity): Generously support the needy in your community.
- Practice Self-Restraint: Since sins are graver during this month, make a conscious effort to avoid gossip, anger, and disputes.
Common Misconceptions and Mistakes
Over the centuries, several unauthentic practices and myths have become associated with Muharram:
- Prohibition of Marriage: Some believe that marriages should not be performed in Muharram due to it being a month of mourning. This has no basis in the Quran or Sunnah. Marriage is a blessed sunnah that can be performed in any month.
- Self-Harm or Mourning Rituals: Physical self-flagellation or striking one's face and body is strictly forbidden in Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "He is not one of us who beats his cheeks, tears his clothes, and calls with the calls of Jahiliyyah."
- The Myth of Adam's Creation or Judgment Day: There are popular stories claiming that Adam was created, the world will end, or specific prophets did specific things on Ashura. While some are true (like Musa's salvation), many are unauthentic or weak narrations. Stick to what is verified.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA)
1. Is fasting on the Day of Ashura mandatory?
No. Fasting on Ashura is voluntary (Sunnah Mu'akkadah). It was mandatory during the early years of Islam, but after the obligation of Ramadan was revealed, the Prophet (peace be upon him) left it as an optional, highly rewarded act.
2. Can I fast only on the 10th of Muharram?
Yes, it is permissible to fast only on the 10th. However, it is disliked (Makruh) by some scholars to isolate the 10th without fasting the day before or after, as we are encouraged to differ from the Jewish practice.
3. What does "Ashura" mean?
"Ashura" is derived from the Arabic root Asharah, which means ten. It refers to the tenth day of Muharram.
4. What happened to Imam Hussain in Muharram?
Imam Hussain (may Allah be pleased with him), the grandson of the Prophet (pbuh), was martyred on the 10th of Muharram at the Battle of Karbala (61 AH / 680 CE) while standing against injustice.
5. Why is Muharram called the "Month of Allah"?
The Prophet (peace be upon him) referred to it as Shahrullah (the Month of Allah) to highlight its sanctity, honor, and blessings, just as the Kaaba is called Baytullah (the House of Allah).
6. Can I pray voluntary prayers on Ashura?
Yes, there is no prohibition. However, there are no specific, authentic voluntary prayers narrated for the day of Ashura itself, other than the general Sunnah and Nawafil prayers like Tahajjud and Duha.
7. Is the Islamic New Year celebrated in Islam?
The Islamic New Year (1st of Muharram) is marked with reflection and gratitude. It is not celebrated with noisy parties or fireworks, as Muslims use this time to review their past year and set intentions for the future.
8. Can I make up missed Ramadan fasts on Ashura?
Yes. You can fast on Ashura with the intention of making up a missed Ramadan fast (Qada). You will fulfill your obligation and, by Allah's mercy, receive the reward for fasting on Ashura.
9. What should we eat on the Day of Ashura?
There is a weak but popular narration encouraging generosity in food for one's family on Ashura. While preparing a good meal for family is permissible, there is no specific religious dish associated with the day.
10. How should we commemorate Imam Hussain's martyrdom?
Sunni Muslims honor Imam Hussain by studying his life, practicing his steadfastness in truth, praying for his high status, and sending blessings (Durood) upon the Prophet (pbuh) and his family (Ahl al-Bayt).
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Related Articles
- What is the Hijri Calendar?
- Why Muslims Use the Hijri Calendar
- How Islamic Months Are Determined
- The Sacred Month of Rajab
- The Blessings of Rabi-ul-Awwal
- Preparing for Ramadan
- The Virtues of Fasting
- Fard, Wajib, Sunnah and Nafl Explained
- Importance of Congregational Prayer
- Masjid Etiquettes
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🌙 The Sacred Month of Muharram is here, marking the start of the new Hijri Year! Did you know that fasting on the Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram) expiates the sins of the entire past year? Read our complete Sunni guide to Muharram and Ashura to prepare your spiritual goals. 🔗 [Link]
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Assalamu Alaikum. As we begin the new Hijri year, let's learn about the virtues of the sacred month of Muharram and prepare for the Day of Ashura. Fasting on Ashura (9th & 10th of Muharram) wipes out the sins of the past year. Read the complete guide on Salah Live: 🔗 [Link]
Salah Live Connection
Living in alignment with the sacred cycles of the Islamic calendar helps strengthen your relationship with Allah. Salah Live helps you track the month of Muharram by displaying accurate Hijri dates directly on your mobile dashboard. You can easily view local Masjid announcements for community Ashura Iftar gatherings, coordinate your voluntary fasting schedules with accurate sunset times, and locate nearby mosques for congregational prayers. Establish your worship with Salah Live.