Mazhar Naqvi
Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, holds great significance for Muslims worldwide as it commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad PBUH. Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is revered as one of the four sacred months in Islam. Following Ramadan, Muharram is regarded as an especially sacred month. This year, Ashura will begin in the evening on July 16, 2024, and will be observed on July 17, 2024.
Muharram is celebrated by both Sunni and Shia Muslims to commemorate the pivotal event of Hazrat Imam Hussain’s martyrdom in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This historic battle, taking place during the reign of Yazid I, the second Umayyad caliph, was a confrontation between Imam Hussain’s forces and the Umayyad army. Hussain, along with his family and loyal followers, refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid I, as they believed his rule to be unjust and contrary to Islamic principles. Understanding this historical context is crucial to fully appreciate the significance of Ashura.
Despite facing overwhelming odds, Imam Hussain remained steadfast in upholding justice and the teachings of Islam. He and his supporters courageously clashed with the Umayyad forces on the 10th day of Muharram. Tragically, Hussain’s followers, including men, women, and children, endured days of deprivation of food and water before ultimately being brutally killed. Hussain himself was martyred in the battle, leaving an indelible mark on Islamic history. His courage and resilience continue to inspire admiration and reverence in Muslims worldwide.
For Shia Muslims, Ashura holds deep significance as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in Karbala, symbolizing the timeless struggle against tyranny and injustice. The courageous stand of Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, against the oppressive regime of Yazid, resonates powerfully with themes of sacrifice, faith, and moral integrity.
Additionally, Ashura carries special meaning for Sunni Muslims, as it marks the day when Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny, as narrated in the Hebrew Bible and the Quran.
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Muharram is observed through various cultural practices and communal activities across different societies and communities:
The act of mourning, a significant part of Ashura observance, involves wearing black clothing, reciting elegies, and taking time to reflect on the events of Karbala. This often includes participating in mourning ceremonies known as Majlis, where the memory of Imam Hussain is honored through collective remembrance. These practices not only serve as a means of expressing grief but also play a crucial role in preserving the memory of Imam Hussain and the lessons learned from his sacrifice.
While fasting on Ashura is not obligatory, many people choose to observe the fast on this day to reflect on the struggles of Imam Hussain and various prophets of Islam. Sunni Muslims may fast on the 9th and 10th day of Muharram, while Shia Muslims may choose to fast on Ashura itself.
In numerous parts of the world, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East, processions are organized to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain, serving as a reminder of his unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness. As an expression of compassion and communal unity, Muslims often distribute food and monetary assistance to those in need during Muharram, emphasizing the spirit of charity and benevolence.
