Why is Muharram Observed?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. According to Islamic beliefs, it is one of the four sacred months of the year. The word 'Muharram' means 'forbidden'. The word is basically derived from 'haram' which means sinful. The month of Muharram is considered sacred because in this month Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed was brutally massacred along with His family in Karbala in the year 680 CE. Hence, Muslims observe this as a month of mourning and remembrance for the martyr, Hussain.

The commemoration on the battle of Karbala begins from the first day of the month and continues till the tenth day which is known as Ashura. Ashura literally means number ten in Arabic. So, the tenth day of Muharram is crucial for all the Muslims, especially the Shia community of Islam. It is significant because their martyr, Hussain was assassinated on this fateful day in the Battle of Karbala.

Courtesy: Mr. Syed Belal Jafri

Let us have a close look as to why Muharram is celebrated and what is the significance of this month of mourning.

Who Was Hussain?

Hussain Ibn-Ali was the grandson of Prophet Mohammed born in 620 AD. Brought up by His grandfather, the last and greatest Prophet of Islam, Hussain was an extremely compassionate figure. In spite of being the Prince of His tribe, Hussain and His brother Hassan broke all the cultural and social moulds to care for the needy and the oppressed. Hence, Hussain is regarded as one of the greatest figure of Islam.

Battle Of Karbala

Karbala was a city in modern day Iraq. After Prophet Mohammed passed away, the huge Islamic world fell into the hands of the oppressor, Yazid. The tyrant ruler was hell bent on gaining complete control over the empire and resorted to every possible form of oppression.

Hussain was the only one who decided to stand up against the mighty emperor in spite of having only 72 followers against Yazid's army of 30,000 people. Thus, the battle of Karbala took place on the 10th day of Muharram. In this battle Hussain and His entire family, along with His infant son were brutally killed. Hussain stood up and fell to defend His people and fighting for their rights. Hence, His sacrifice is mourned by the whole Muslim community all over the world.

Significance

Muharram is a month of remembrance by the great sacrifice of Hussain Ibn-Ali. During this month, the Shia Muslims observe complete mourning. No celebration or good work is undertaken during the month of Muharram by most sects of Islam. Huge processions are held and the Battle of Karbala is re-enacted to let people know about the great sacrifice of Hussain. Apart from this there are many people go who through the pain which Hussain went through in the remembrance of His martyrdom.

So, on one hand Muharram is the ushering in of the new year for the Muslim community. One the other hand it is the time of mourning for their greatest hero, Hussain.