Day of Ashura
Muharram: The First Month of the Islamic Calendar (Sunni References)
Introduction
The Islamic year begins with Muharram ul Haram, the first month of the Hijri Calendar. Unlike worldly traditions of celebrating the new year with merriment, Islam starts its year with reflection, patience, remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, sacrifice, and selflessness. Muharram holds immense spiritual value for Muslims, especially the tenth day, known as Ashurah, which is marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of worship.
The Sacredness of Muharram in Islam
Muharram is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Holy Qur’an (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:36). These months are periods when Muslims are encouraged to engage in more worship, avoid sins, and seek closeness to Allah Ta’ala.
According to Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ described Muharram as “the month of Allah,” highlighting its unique importance.
The Tenth of Muharram (Ashurah)
The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashurah, has great historical and spiritual significance. On this day:
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Allah Ta’ala created the heavens and the earth.
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Hazrat Adam (Alaihis-Salam) was created and pardoned.
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The Ark of Hazrat Nuh (Alaihis-Salam) rested safely on Mount Judi.
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Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis-Salam) was saved from the fire of Nimrod.
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Hazrat Musa (Alaihis-Salam) and Bani Israel were delivered from Pharaoh’s tyranny.
These events make Ashurah a day of divine mercy and deliverance.
Recommended Acts of Worship in Muharram
Nafl Prayers on the 1st of Muharram
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Offer 2 rakats Nafl.
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In each rakat, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas three times.
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After Salam, pray sincerely for your needs.
It is narrated that Allah Ta’ala appoints an angel to guide such a person away from sins.
Nafl Salat on the Eve of Ashurah
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Offer 4 rakats Nafl.
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In each rakat, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Ayat-ul-Kursi once and Surah Ikhlas three times.
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After completion, recite Surah Ikhlas 100 times for forgiveness and blessings.
Special Nafl of Ashurah Night
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Offer 100 rakats Nafl, reciting Surah Ikhlas three times after Surah Al-Fatiha in every rakat.
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After Salam, recite the First Kalimah 100 times.
This is a means of forgiveness and divine mercy.
Dua-e-Ashurah
Hazrat Imam Zainul Abideen (Radi Allah Anhu) narrated that whoever recites Dua-e-Ashurah between sunrise and sunset on the 10th of Muharram, Allah grants him protection from death for the whole year unless destined otherwise.
The Fast of Ashurah
Fasting on 9th and 10th Muharram is highly emphasized. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting the day of Ashurah, I hope that Allah will expiate thereby the sins of the year before it.” (Sahih Muslim)
To distinguish from the Jewish tradition of fasting only on the 10th, Rasulullah ﷺ encouraged fasting on both the 9th and 10th Muharram.
Recommended Sunnah Practices on Ashurah
According to various Sunni references, desirable acts on Ashurah include:
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Observing fast.
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Giving charity generously.
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Performing Nafl prayers.
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Reciting Surah Ikhlas abundantly.
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Visiting pious scholars (Ulema).
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Placing a hand of affection on an orphan’s head.
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Giving to relatives.
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Applying kohl (surma).
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Taking a bath and cutting nails.
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Visiting the sick.
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Reconciling with enemies.
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Reciting Dua-e-Ashurah.
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Visiting Muslim graves.
Hazrat Abdullah ibn Masood (Radi Allah Anhu) narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever generously spends on his family on the day of Ashurah, Allah will increase his provision throughout the year.”
The Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (Radi Allah Anhu)
Muharram also reminds us of the great sacrifice of Imam Hussain ibn Ali (Radi Allah Anhu), the beloved grandson of Rasulullah ﷺ. On the 10th of Muharram in Karbala, he and his noble companions were martyred while upholding truth and justice. This martyrdom remains a lesson of courage, sacrifice, and steadfastness for Muslims worldwide.
Conclusion
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is not only a beginning of the year but also a sacred opportunity for worship, reflection, and remembrance. The Day of Ashurah stands as a reminder of Allah’s mercy, the victories of His Prophets, and the ultimate sacrifice of Imam Hussain (RA).
Every believer should strive to fast, pray, give charity, and recite Dua-e-Ashurah in this blessed month to gain immense blessings and forgiveness.
FAQs About Muharram (Sunni Perspective)
Q1: Why is Muharram important in Islam?
Muharram is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an, a time of increased worship and remembrance of Allah.
Q2: What is Ashurah and why is it significant?
Ashurah is the 10th of Muharram, a day when Allah granted victories and blessings to His Prophets and their followers. It is also the day of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA).
Q3: Should Muslims fast on Ashurah?
Yes, fasting on the 9th and 10th Muharram is highly recommended. If unable to fast both days, fasting on the 10th alone carries great reward.
Q4: What is Dua-e-Ashurah?
It is a supplication narrated from Imam Zainul Abideen (RA). Reciting it on Ashurah provides divine protection for the year.
Q5: What are Sunnah acts on the Day of Ashurah?
Fasting, giving charity, performing Nafl prayers, reciting Surah Ikhlas, visiting the sick, showing kindness to orphans, and reconciling with enemies.
