Muharram FAQ’s (1/5)

What is the meaning of Muharram? A: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. The term “Muharram” means “Sacred” or “Forbidden.” Even before the advent of Islam, this month was recognized as sacred, and all forms of warfare were forbidden during this time.

Which are the sacred Months of the Islamic calendar? A: There are four sacred months in the Islamic calendar: Zul-Qa’dah, Zul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. The sanctity of these months was observed by all the previous Prophets (Alayhimus Salaam)

What are the common misconceptions regarding the 10th of Muharram? A: The following are some baseless misconceptions:

a) This is the day in which Adam Alayhis salaam was created.

b) This is the day in which Ebrahim Alayhis salaam was born.

c) This is the day in which Allah accepted the repentance of Adam Alayhis salaam.

d) This is the day on which the Qiyaamah will take place.

e) Whoever takes a bath on the 10th of Muharram will never get ill.

f) Holding special prayers, offering sacrifices or visiting the graveyard on the 10th of Muharram thinking that there is special reward or meaning for doing so.

All the above are untrue and are not substantiated from authentic Islamic sources.

Which is the most significant day in the Month of Muharram and why?

The 10th of Muharram, known as the day of Aashura, is the most significant day of the month. When Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) arrived in Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on Aashura. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) asked them about the reason for their fasting, and they replied, “This is a blessed day. On this day, Allah saved Moosa (Alayhis Salaam) and drowned Fir’aun. Moosa (Alayhis Salaam) fasted on this day in gratitude to Allah.” Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) then said, “I am closer to Moosa (Alayhis Salaam) than you.” He fasted on that day and commanded the Muslims to fast as well. (Sahih Bukhari)

Is the 10th of Muharram sanctified because of the Martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu? A: The 10th of Muharram is not sanctified due to the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu). While the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu) is one of the most heart-rending episodes in our history, the sanctity of the 10th of Muharram was established during the time of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam), long before the birth of Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu).The significance of this day is rooted in the events that took place much earlier. However, it is a merit of Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu) that his martyrdom occurred on this blessed day.

Is there any basis in Islam to host ceremonies to lament over the Martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu on the 10th of Muharram? A:The martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu) is indeed one of the most tragic events in Islamic history. We remember and honour the sacrifices made by Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu) and the family members of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) who stood with him on the plains of Karbala. Their courage and steadfastness serve as a powerful lesson for us.

However, Islam does not endorse acts of mourning that are contrary to the teachings of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). In pre-Islamic times, people would mourn their deceased with loud lamentations, tearing their clothes, and beating their cheeks and chests. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) forbade such practices, saying: “He is not from us who slaps his cheeks, tears his clothes, and cries in the manner of the people of Jahiliyyah (ignorance).”(Sahih Bukhari)

Instead, Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) taught us to observe patience and to say, “Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji’oon” (To Allah we belong and to Him we will return) at times of calamity.

Shortly before his demise, Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu) echoed the guidance of his beloved grandfather (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) by advising his sister, Sayyidatuna Zainab (Radhiyallahu Anha), saying, “My dear sister, I swear upon you that if I die, you shall not tear your clothes, nor scratch your face, nor curse anyone, nor pray for your death.” (Al-Kamil, ibn Kathir vol. 4 pg. 24)

Sayyiduna Husain (Radhiyallahu Anhu), even under the most difficult conditions, perfectly emulated the conduct of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Therefore, as the month of Muharram approaches, it is fitting for us to strive to emulate the same conduct.

Is there a special reward for fasting on the 10th of Muharram?