Muḥarram, the first month of the Islāmic calendar, holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. It is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’ān, where acts of righteousness are multiplied, and transgressions are even graver. Allāh states:

إِنَّ عِدَّةَ ٱلشُّهُورِ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ ٱثْنَا عَشَرَ شَهْرًۭا فِى كِتَـٰبِ ٱللَّهِ يَوْمَ خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضَ مِنْهَآ أَرْبَعَةٌ حُرُمٌۭ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ ٱلدِّينُ ٱلْقَيِّمُ فَلَا تَظْلِمُوا۟ فِيهِنَّ أَنفُسَكُمْ
“Indeed, the number of months with Allāh is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allāh from the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them.”
(Sūrah at-Tawbah 9:36)

Among the virtues of Muḥarram is the fast of the day of ʿĀshūrāʾ, the 10th of Muḥarram. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized its merits, stating that fasting on this day expiates the sins of the past year. Historically, it is the day when Prophet Mūsā (ʿalayhi as-salām) and the Banū Isrāʾīl were saved from Firʿawn’s tyranny. In gratitude, Mūsā (ʿalayhi as-salām) fasted on this day, a tradition later affirmed by the Prophet ﷺ, who encouraged Muslims to fast on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th to distinguish from the practice of the Jews. Fasting during Muḥarram is highly recommended beyond just ʿĀshūrāʾ, as the Prophet ﷺ described it as the best fast after Ramaḍān. It is an opportunity to attain closeness to Allāh and seek His forgiveness.

Muḥarram is also deeply linked to the sacrifice of Imām Ḥusayn (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) and the events of Karbalāʾ, where he and his family were martyred while upholding justice and truth. This tragic event is remembered by many as a symbol of standing against tyranny. While some communities express grief in excessive ways, Islām encourages reflection, supplication, and commitment to the values for which Imām Ḥusayn (raḍiy Allāhu ʿanhu) stood—steadfastness, patience, and standing against oppression. His legacy serves as a reminder that faith and principles should never be compromised, even in the face of adversity.

Beyond historical events, Muḥarram is a time for spiritual renewal. Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of worship, make sincere repentance, and engage in charitable deeds. Since sins are weightier in this sacred month, it is an opportunity to guard against transgressions and renew one’s dedication to faith. Just as the Islāmic year begins with Muḥarram, it marks a chance for every believer to set new goals in their relationship with Allāh, seeking His mercy and blessings for the year ahead. It is a moment of reflection, where one should evaluate their past deeds and set intentions for improvement. Striving for sincerity in worship, improving one’s character, and making duʿāʾ for guidance are essential ways to embrace the sanctity of this month. By prioritising faith and righteousness, Muslims can begin the new year with clarity, devotion, and a deeper connection with their Creator.