Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar year and is one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar. This month, often called the “month of Allah,” holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for increased worship, reflection, and engaging in righteous deeds to seek Allah’s blessings. Let’s explore the importance of Muharram and the actions Muslims can take to make the most of this holy month.
Understanding Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Hijri calendar, which follows the event of the Hijrah (migration) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The term “Muharram” means “prohibited” or “forbidden,” emphasizing its sanctity. In Islamic tradition, warfare is prohibited during this month. Historically, it was known as “Safer al-Awwal” before Islam.
The sighting of the new moon determines the Islamic year and is 10 or 11 days shorter than the solar year. In 2024, Muharram begins on July 7, although the exact date may vary depending on regional moon sightings.
Important Dates in Muharram
1. 1st Muharram: This day marks the beginning of the new lunar year for Travellers, migrants, Nomads, and Refugees annually. So, while non-Muslims celebrate the new year, Islam does not endorse it for Muslims, though they are encouraged to do good deeds. Chanting the Dua after observing the new crescent is advised.
2. 10th Muharram (Ashura): Ashura is important in Islam on moral and historical grounds. A complete fast on this day is preferred.
3. 9th and 11th Muharram: If, therefore, a Muslim fasts, it should be either on the 9th and 10th or on the 10th and 11th of Muharram so that he can refuse to follow the pattern of the Jews who fast only on the Day of Ashura.
Significance of Muharram
The events of Muharram have been commonly discussed in both the Quran and the Hadith. Allah declares four months as sacred, during which fighting is forbidden: Namely Dhul Qadah, Dhul Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab.
Allah says in the Quran: “Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve—in Allah’s Record since the day He created the heavens and the earth—of which four are sacred. That is the Right Way. So, do not misbehave with one another during these months. And together, fight the polytheists as they fight against you together. And know that Allah is with the righteous.” [Surah At-Taubah, 9:36]
In a hadith, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentions the sacred months: “The year is twelve months of which four are sacred: the three consecutive months of Dhul Qa’dah, Dhul Hijjah, and Muharram, and (the fourth is) Rajab of (the tribe of) Mudar which comes between Jumaada and Sha’baan.” [Musnad Ahmad]
Actions to Take in Muharram
1. Fasting: Fasting is a noble thing to do during the month of Muharram. Of the remaining fasts, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best fasting is after Ramadan is the fasting of Muharram. ” [Sahih Muslim] … Fasting on the Day of Ashura has been obligatory in Islamic laws, regenerating the minor sins of the preceding year.
2. Sincere Repentance: It is essential to seek Allah’s forgiveness at the beginning of every Islamic year. One should sincerely apologize to oneself or God for the misdeeds and be determined not to do them again.
3. Making Dua: Allah requests blessing for this year, and special supplications are needed for the new year. Dua is also effective for Muslims, and it can reduce Allah’s anger. Hey, I’m going to stop here and wait for your response.
4. Increased Worship: Offer night prayers, especially Tahajjud, and pray for yourself and others. Read the Quran and mention Allan’s praises. Other specifics include prayers such as helping people, good conduct, and refraining from sins.
5. Charity: The month of Dhu al-Hijjah is recommended for donating to charity because it atones for sins and Allah showering his blessings.
6. Maintaining Purity: Because Muharram is a holy month, there should be no sinful acts or fighting.
7. Setting Goals: Personal development goals: At the start of the year, it is about reaching personal and professional development targets. For spirituality, set daily Quran memorization, and for professionalism, plan how you will gain new skills.
For Muslims, Muharram is an effective chance for spiritual rejuvenation and performing actions that help people draw closer to Allah. Thereby, several positive outcomes can be achieved: Muslims can improve their spiritual state and start the Islamic year with great passion.
