The Month of Muharram is the first month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam.
It is regarded as a month of spirituality, reflection, and increased devotion.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The best fasting after Ramadan is fasting in the month of Allah, Muharram.”
8 Muharram
- During the events leading to the Battle of Karbala, Husayn ibn Ali and his companions were surrounded near Karbala.
9 Muharram (Tasu’a)
- The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ intended to fast this day together with Ashura to distinguish the Muslim practice from that of others.
- It is recommended to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
- In the Karbala narrative, this was the final day before the battle.
10 Muharram (Ashura)
This is the most significant day of Muharram.
According to authentic Islamic sources:
- Allah (SWT) saved Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from Pharaoh.
- The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted on this day and encouraged the Ummah to fast it.
- Fasting Ashura is an expiation for the sins of the previous year (minor sins), as mentioned in authentic hadith.
Husayn ibn Ali, along with many of his family members and companions, was martyred in the Battle of Karbala.