Muharram 2024 Explained: Key Insights into Its Significance, Historical Roots, and Traditions

Muharram

Muharram significance, History, and Traditions of the Islamic New Year, Muharram 2024 Messages and Wishes: WhatsApp Wishes and GIFs to Share with Your Family and Friends

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, signifies the start of the Islamic New Year. This lunar calendar began in 622 A.D. with the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, an event known as Hijrah. Consequently, the calendar is known as the Hijri year, and the first day of Muharram is referred to as Al-Hijri.

The Islamic calendar, which commenced in 622, follows a 30-year cycle. It consists of 19 years with 354 days each and 11 leap years with 355 days, leading to annual shifts of Islamic dates on the Gregorian calendar. The New Year in the lunar calendar is marked by the First of Muharram, which is determined by the sighting of the new lunar crescent.

Historical Background of Muharram

Muharram’s origins trace back to 622 A.D., when Prophet Muhammad and his followers were compelled to leave Mecca for Medina on the first day of Muharram.

Muharram and Ashura

The word “Muharram” is derived from the Arabic word “haram,” meaning “forbidden,” while “Ashura,” from the Semitic root for “ten,” denotes the tenth day. Thus, “Youm-E-Ashura” means “the tenth day.”

Significance of Ashura

Muharram and Ashura hold profound significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, although their meanings differ.

For Sunni Muslims, the importance of Youm-E-Ashura was established when Prophet Muhammad arrived in Medina. The local Jewish community observed a fast on Ashura to commemorate Moses’ (Musa) triumph over Pharaoh. Prophet Muhammad encouraged his followers to fast on Ashura in honor of Moses’ victory. Sunni Muslims typically observe a fast for two days in Muharram: Ashura and either the day before or after it.

For Shia Muslims, Muharram is a period of mourning. On Youm-E-Ashura, Husain Ibn Ali, the Prophet’s grandson, was martyred in the Battle of Karbala, a crucial event in Islamic history.

Battle of Karbala

The Battle of Karbala took place on the 10th of Muharram in 61 A.H. (680 A.D.). Husain Ibn Ali, leading a small group, was defeated and killed by the army of Umayyad leader Yazid I. Since then, Shia Muslims observe Ashura as a day of mourning, remembering Husain Ibn Ali’s martyrdom through sermons, passion plays, and processions. Some also practice self-flagellation as a deep expression of grief.

Quotes for Islamic New Year

  • “Let us thank Allah every day for His blessings. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead.”
  • “May we all become favored by Allah in this life and the next. Happy Hijri New Year!”
  • “The true Hijrah today is turning away from what Allah and His Messenger have forbidden.”
  • “May Allah grant you the strength to live justly and shield you from harm. Happy Hijri New Year to you and your family.”
  • “As Muharram approaches, sending you my love and prayers. May Allah keep you safe from any harm.”

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