Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an. With the arrival of Muharram 2025, Muslims worldwide prepare for a time of spiritual reflection, historical remembrance, and acts of devotion. This sacred month, also known as Shahrullah al-Muharram (The Month of Allah), invites every believer to renew their intentions and deepen their connection with their Creator.
This article explores the meaning, history, and significance of Muharram, highlighting key aspects of Muharram fasting, the importance of 10 Muharram 2025, and guidance from the Qur’an and Sunnah.
What is Muharram in Islam?
Muharram (المحرّم) comes from the Arabic word “ḥarām” (حرام), meaning “forbidden” or “sacred.” It is one of the four sacred months declared by Allah ﷻ, during which warfare and bloodshed are strictly prohibited. The sanctity of this month is emphasized in the Qur’an:
إِنَّ عِدَّةَ ٱلشُّهُورِ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ ٱثْنَا عَشَرَ شَهْرًۭا فِى كِتَـٰبِ ٱللَّهِ يَوْمَ خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضَ مِنْهَآ أَرْبَعَةٌ حُرُمٌۭ ۚ
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah on the day He created the heavens and the earth—of them, four are sacred.”
(Surah At-Tawbah 9:36)
These sacred months are Dhul-Qi’dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. Among them, Muharram holds a particularly high status, as the Prophet ﷺ described it as the Month of Allah
Muharram Meaning and Virtue
The meaning of Muharram extends beyond its linguistic root. It symbolizes a time for self-discipline, gratitude, and remembrance of Allah. Unlike any other month, the Prophet ﷺ called it:
شَهْرُ ٱللَّهِ ٱلْمُحَرَّمُ
“The Month of Allah, al-Muharram.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This unique attribution reflects the sacredness of this month. It is an ideal time to seek forgiveness, increase in good deeds, and reflect on our purpose as Muslims.
Muharram History and the Tragedy of Karbala
The history of Muharram is remembered most intensely for the Battle of Karbala, which took place on the 10th of Muharram in the year 61 AH (680 CE). On this tragic day, Imam Hussain ibn Ali (رضي الله عنه)—the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ—stood against the tyranny of Yazid and was martyred along with his family and loyal companions.
Their sacrifice has echoed through the centuries as a timeless symbol of truth, justice, and resistance to oppression. The lessons from Karbala are not limited to a sectarian perspective—they resonate with all Muslims as a reminder of the moral duty to stand for righteousness, even against overwhelming odds.
When is Muharram 2025?
According to the Islamic calendar, Muharram 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Saturday, June 28, 2025, with the 1st of Muharram falling on Sunday, June 29, 2025. The exact date may vary based on moon sightings in different countries.
When is 10 Muharram 2025 (Ashura)?
The most significant day in Muharram is the 10th day, known as Yawm al-Ashura. In 2025, 10 Muharram (Ashura) will likely fall on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, depending on moon sighting.
This day holds dual historical and spiritual significance. It commemorates:
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The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala
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The deliverance of Prophet Musa (AS) and Bani Israel from Pharaoh
When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ arrived in Madinah and found the Jews fasting on Ashura, he said:
نَحْنُ أَحَقُّ بِمُوسَىٰ مِنْهُمْ، فَصَامَهُ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ
“We are more entitled to Musa than they are. So he fasted on that day and instructed the Muslims to fast.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
Virtue of Muharram Fasting
Fasting in Muharram, particularly on Ashura (the 10th of Muharram), is highly rewarding. The Prophet ﷺ said:
أَفْضَلُ الصِّيَامِ بَعْدَ رَمَضَانَ شَهْرُ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّذِي تَدْعُونَهُ ٱلْمُحَرَّمَ
“The best fast after [the obligatory fasts of] Ramadan is in the month of Allah—Muharram.”
(Sahih Muslim)
And specifically regarding Ashura:
صِيَامُ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ، إِنِّي أَحْتَسِبُ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ أَنْ يُكَفِّرَ ٱلسَّنَةَ ٱلَّتِي قَبْلَهُ
“Fasting on the Day of Ashura, I hope, will expiate [the sins of] the past year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
To distinguish Muslim practice from that of the Jews, it is recommended to fast either on the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.
Muharram: A Month of Reflection and Renewal
As the Islamic New Year begins with Muharram, it’s a time to turn inward and reflect on our deeds, intentions, and spiritual direction. The lessons of Muharram history and the sacredness of this month remind us of the importance of:
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Upholding truth and justice
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Strengthening our connection with Allah
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Engaging in voluntary fasting and charity
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Avoiding sinful behavior, especially in sacred months
Conclusion
The arrival of Muharram 2025 is not just the start of a new calendar year—it is a divine opportunity to refresh our hearts, realign our lives with the values of Islam, and draw nearer to Allah. By honoring the sanctity of this month, understanding the meaning of Muharram, fasting on 10 Muharram, and remembering the noble sacrifice of Imam Hussain (RA), we uphold a living legacy of faith and devotion.
May Allah allow us to benefit from Muharram, forgive our sins through fasting, and strengthen us upon the truth in all circumstances. Ameen.
