Islamic months are full of spiritual wisdom and historical importance. Among them, the month of Muharram-ul-Haram holds a special place. It is not just the beginning of the Islamic New Year, but also a sacred and blessed time recognized by the Qur’an and Hadith. Let us explore what makes Muharram so significant in Islam.
What Are the Sacred Months in Islam?
Allah Almighty has declared four months as sacred (Al-Ashhur Al-Hurum) in the Holy Qur’an:
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve… of them four are sacred.”
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:36)
These four sacred months are:
- Dhul Qa’dah
- Dhul Hijjah
- Muharram
- Rajab
In these months, fighting is forbidden, and good deeds carry extra reward. Sins are also considered more serious. This shows the great respect and honor these months carry in the sight of Allah.
Why is Muharram So Special?
The name “Muharram” itself means “sacred” or “forbidden,” and this month is known as the “Month of Allah (Shahrullah)” in Hadith – a unique title not given to any other month.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The best fast after Ramadan is in the month of Allah: Muharram.”
(Muslim Sharif)
Muharram is a month of:
- Reflection and remembrance
- Spiritual renewal
- Fasting and extra worship
- Honoring great Islamic events, especially the Day of Ashura (10th Muharram)
On this day, many historical events took place, such as:
- The salvation of Prophet Musa (A.S.) and the defeat of Pharaoh
- The acceptance of the repentance of Prophet Adam (A.S.)
- The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (رضی اللہ عنہ) in Karbala, a moment of great sorrow and lesson for the Ummah
How Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Honoured This Month
The Prophet ﷺ himself used to fast during Muharram, especially on the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura.
“I hope from Allah that fasting on the day of Ashura will expiate the sins of the previous year.”
(Muslim Sharif)
When the Prophet ﷺ came to Madinah, he saw the Jews fasting on Ashura to commemorate the victory of Prophet Musa (A.S.). The Prophet ﷺ said:
“We have more right to Musa than them.”
So, he fasted and encouraged Muslims to do so.
Later, he advised fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram to distinguish Muslims from the Jewish tradition.
Conclusion
The month of Muharram is not just the beginning of a new Islamic year—it is a time to purify our hearts, seek forgiveness, and remember the sacrifices of the righteous.
Following the way of the Prophet ﷺ, we should honor this sacred month by:
- Fasting, especially on Ashura
- Increasing good deeds and charity
- Remembering the history of Karbala with love and respect
- Avoiding innovations and staying firm on the Sunnah
Let this Muharram be a chance to reset your intentions and strengthen your connection with Allah.