Muharram 2025: Date, traditions, and spiritual meaning behind the sacred month

Muharram 2025 is expected to commence on June 27, 2025, subject to the sighting of the crescent moon. As the first month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, Muharram signifies the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is recognized as one of Islam’s four sacred months. Though it may be misunderstood by some as a celebratory event, Muharram is a deeply solemn time, particularly for the Shia Muslim community, who observe it as a period of mourning, remembrance, and reflection.

What Is Muharram and Why Does It Matter?
Derived from the Arabic word meaning "forbidden," Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam during which warfare is traditionally prohibited. It carries profound religious and historical significance throughout the Muslim world. For Shia Muslims, Muharram is particularly marked by grief and remembrance, especially on the day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram.

Ashura is a crucial date in Islamic history, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Imam Hussain's steadfast refusal to submit to the oppressive rule of Yazid ibn Muawiya turned him into a powerful symbol of justice, resistance, and moral integrity. His courageous stand and ultimate sacrifice, alongside his loyal companions, continue to inspire people around the world to stand up for truth and oppose injustice.

During the first ten days of Muharram, Shia Muslims observe a range of mourning practices to honour the tragedy of Karbala:

• Dressing in black
  
• Attending nightly majlis (religious gatherings) focused on the events of Karbala
  
• Joining Ashura processions, often barefoot and chanting lamentations
  
• Avoiding celebrations and worldly indulgences
  

In Sunni traditions, fasting during Muharram—especially on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th—is highly recommended. This act is seen as a means of gaining spiritual reward and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.

Beyond fasting and mourning, Muslims are encouraged to engage in spiritual activities such as Qur’an recitation, performing additional prayers, and giving charity. These acts reflect the solemn and introspective nature of the month.