Sunni & Shia Observance of Muharram

IN THIS BLOG

INTRODUCTION OF MUHARRAM

SIGNIFICANCE OF MUHARRAM

FASTING IN MUHARRAM

MOURNING & COMMEMORATION

MAJLIS, MATAM, PROCESSIONS 

PUBLIC SPEECHES

CULTURAL & REGIONAL  VARIATION 

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds significant religious and historical importance for Muslims. It is a sacred month, and various events and observances mark this period, particularly the 10th day, known as Ashura. Muharram's significance and the manner of its observance differ between Sunni and Shia Muslims.

Significance of Muharram:

slamic New Year:

Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a time of reflection and renewal for Muslims as they start a new year.

Sacred Month

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is traditionally forbidden. The other sacred months are Rajab, Dhu al-Qa'dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

Ashura (10th of Muharram)

Ashura is the most significant day in Muharram and is observed differently by Sunni and Shia Muslims.

Sunni Observance of Muharram

Fasting

Sunni Muslims observe fasting on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura). This practice is in commemoration of the day when the Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh by the parting of the Red Sea. The Prophet Muhammad encouraged fasting on this day and often fasted on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.

Reflection and Prayer:

It is a time for increased reflection, prayer, and seeking forgiveness. Sunnis use this time to engage in good deeds and spiritual practices.

Shia Observance of Muharram:

Mourning and Commemoration:

 For Shia Muslims, Muharram is a period of intense mourning, particularly for the first ten days leading up to Ashura. This period commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and his 72 companions at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

Majlis (Gatherings):

Majlis or mourning gatherings are held where religious leaders recount the events of Karbala, sermons are delivered, and poetry (Marsiya and Noha) is recited to evoke the suffering and sacrifice of Imam Hussein and his companions.

Matam (Chest Beating):

 Matam involves rhythmic chest beating and is performed as an expression of grief and solidarity with Imam Hussein's sufferings.

Processions and Ta’ziya:

 Processions and reenactments of the Battle of Karbala, known as Ta’ziya, are common. These activities help to visualize and emotionally connect with the historical events.

Charity and Acts of Kindness:

Acts of charity, such as distributing food and water (Niyaz and Sabeel), are performed to honor the hardships endured by Imam Hussein and his followers.

Arbaeen Pilgrimage:

 The Arbaeen pilgrimage, occurring 40 days after Ashura, is a significant event where millions of Shia Muslims travel to Karbala, Iraq, to visit Imam Hussein's shrine.

Cultural and Regional Variations:

The observance of Muharram varies widely across different cultures and regions: 

South Asia: Majlis, processions, and public speeches are prominent, and large communal meals are shared.

Middle East: Extensive public mourning, organized processions, and religious seminars are common.

Western Countries: Shia communities adapt their observances to local contexts, holding majlis and processions within their communities.

Muharram, therefore, serves as a time of deep spiritual reflection, mourning, and community engagement for Muslims worldwide, with a particular focus on the values of sacrifice, justice, and standing against oppression.