Muharram 2023: Remembering Hazrat Imam Hussain’s Sacrifices on Ashura

Muharram is an important month in the Islamic Lunar Calendar, especially for Muslims worldwide. This year, in 2023, Muharram began on July 19th, with the most significant day, Ashura, being observed on July 29th. On this occasion, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “We recall the sacrifices made by Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). His dedication to the principles of justice and human dignity is admirable.

Muharram is considered the month of Allah and holds great reverence among Muslims. It honors the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Medina, a historical event that is significant to both Sunni and Shia Muslims.

Historical Significance:

Ashura, the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims as it commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. He bravely faced the Battle of Karbala during this month and was unjustly killed even though fighting was forbidden. Additionally, it is believed that Prophet Ibrahim was born on the 10th day of Muharram.

Importance of Ashura:

The annual observance of Ashura is a time for Muslims to reflect on the teachings of Imam Hussain and the values he stood for. It is a solemn time of mourning and remembrance, reminding people to uphold the principles of justice, compassion, and human dignity that Imam Hussain sacrificed his life for.

How Ashura is Observed:

Muharram is a month of significance and devotion for Muslims, and Ashura, the 10th day, is marked with religious activities and remembrance. During this month, Sunni Muslims fast, while Shia Muslims observe mourning on the tenth day.

For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of deep sorrow. Some participate in acts of self-flagellation, chest-beating, and forehead cutting with sharpened knives as a way to express their grief. They use chains with attached blades, called “zanjeer zani,” to remember the pain suffered by Imam Hussain and his followers. Shia Muslims come together, leaving their homes, and walk on the streets to express their sorrow.

During Muharram, a lot of Muslims pray, go to mosques, read scriptures, keep fasts, and show their appreciation to Allah.

Conclusion:

Muharram and Ashura hold immense significance in the hearts of Muslims, providing a time to remember the sacrifices made by Hazrat Imam Hussain and the values he stood for. It is a time of reflection and remembrance, urging people to uphold justice, compassion, and human dignity. While different sects of Islam observe Ashura in various ways, the underlying message remains the same – to honor the memory of Imam Hussain and carry forward his teachings in their lives.