Muharram 2025
A Sacred Month of Remembrance and Reflection
What is Muharram?
Muharram - also known as Muharram-ul-Haram - is the first month of the Hijri calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic year.
It is one of the four sacred months, and its importance is indicated by its name. The word Muharram in Arabic translates to ‘forbidden,’ highlighting the sacred time when violence is avoided.
For Shia Muslims, Muharram is a period of commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as), along with his family and companions during the Battle of Karbala.
Their sacrifice symbolizes the struggle against injustice and oppression. The first ten days of Muharram are significant, ending with the Day of Ashura, a day of remembrance.
Sunni Muslims also honor Muharram, observing the Day of Ashura to commemorate the event where Prophet Musa (as) and the Israelites were saved from the Pharaoh.
Muharram is a time for introspection, a month to renew and connect with our faith, stand united, and uphold the values of justice and truth.
When is Muharram 2025?
In the Islamic calendar, a new day begins at sunset rather than at midnight. The first day of Muharram begins at sunset on June 25, 2025.
What is the Significance of Muharram?
Muharram marks the start of the Islamic New Year. It is a time for spiritual renewal and reflection. It is one of the four holy months that are mentioned in the Quran.
Key Dates for Muharram 2025
The Day of Ashura 2025
The 10th of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, derives its name from the Arabic word meaning ‘tenth’.
This day is significant, as it honors the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (as), along with his family and companions at the Battle of Karbala.
It also commemorates Prophet Musa’s (as) victory over oppression and is commonly observed through fasting.
Learn more about the Day of Ashura
Giving Charity in Muharram
Charity during Muharram is highly encouraged. Honor the sacrifices made by Imam Hussain (as), along with his family and companions by supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.
The legacy of Karbala urges us to respond with compassion to those in need. Just as the Prophet’s (SAW) family endured immense suffering, vulnerable communities today continue to face conflict, war, and natural disasters.
Impoverished families in Gaza, displaced communities in Yemen, and refugees from Syria are in urgent need of assistance. Providing them with essentials like food and clean water can result in lasting change.
Many Muslims choose to offer their Zakat and Sadaqah during this month to earn additional rewards, especially on the Day of Ashura.
Give Sadaqah This MuharramThis Muharram, Give the Gift of Water
This Muharram, honor the legacy of Imam Hussain (as) and the martyrs of Karbala by giving one of the most precious gifts: clean water . During the Battle of Karbala, water was denied to Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) family.
Millions still lack access to safe, clean drinking water. This Muharram, build sustainable water solutions for communities in need. The gift of water is a form of Sadaqah Jariyah , a gift that keeps giving.
Our Water Projects
Remember those in need while remembering the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (as), along with his family and companions.
Can’t Build a Well? Earn Endless Rewards Through our Safe Water Fund
Fasting During Muharram
Muharram is a month when fasting is highly recommended, particularly on certain days known for their special rewards. Prophet Muhammad (saw) emphasized the spiritual significance of fasting during this period.
Give Zakat With Confidence This Muharram
Although there is no specific recommendation to pay your Zakat in Muharram, during the times of the Prophet (saw), Zakat was collected from the Ummah on the 1st of Muharram. The increased reward available for honoring the times of the year favored by Allah (swt) is one of the reasons why many Muslims around the world still choose to give their Zakat in Muharram.
ZakatZakat Eligible Projects
Having trouble calculating your Zakat? Our free online Zakat calculator is here to help!
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What are some recommended actions or Sunnah during Muharram?
It is highly recommended to fast as much as possible during Muharram. The Messenger of Allah (saw) said, "The best fasting after Ramadan is the Sacred Month of Allah (Muharram)…" (Muslim)
In fact, the sanctity of Muharram was so established that even the Quraysh in the days of Jahiliyah (ignorance) used to fast on certain days. One such day is the Day of ’Ashura (the 10th of Muharram), which commemorates Allah (swt) freeing Prophet Musa (as) and his people from the Pharaoh's oppression.
The Messenger of Allah (saw) said: "Fasting on the Day of Ashura expiates the minor sins of the past year." (Muslim)
It is, therefore, highly recommended to fast on this day.
The Prophet (saw) also advised us to also fast on the 9th and 11th of Muharram.
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