Muharram 2026

What Is Muharram? 

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. It is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Holy Quran, making it a time of heightened spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. 

The word Muharram comes from the Arabic root meaning ‘forbidden’ - referring to the prohibition of warfare and violence during this sacred month. Because of its sanctity, Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased worship, reflection and good deeds, while being especially mindful to avoid wrongdoing. 

When Is Muharram 2026? 

The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, and the beginning of each month depends on the sighting of the new moon. 

In 2026, Muharram is expected to begin on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, subject to moon sighting. 

During this blessed month, rewards for good deeds are multiplied, and sins carry greater weight, making it an ideal time for repentance and renewal. 

The Significance of Muharram 

Muharram holds deep historical, spiritual and moral significance: 

• It marks the Islamic New Year 

• It commemorates the Hijrah Sharif that led to the establishment of the first Islamic state 

• It contains the Day of Ashura (link), one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar 

Key Dates During Muharram 2026 

All dates are approximate and subject to moon sighting 

What Is the Day of Ashura? 

The word Ashura means ‘tenth’ – referring to the 10th day of Muharram. It is among the most significant days of the Islamic year for both Sunni and Shia Muslims. 

For Shia Muslims 

Ashura is a day of mourning and remembrance, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as) and his family and companions at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The day is observed through gatherings, processions, and reflection on justice, sacrifice and standing against oppression. 

For Sunni Muslims 

Ashura commemorates the day when Allah (swt) saved Prophet Musa and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh by parting the Red Sea. Fasting on this day is strongly recommended and follows the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). 

What Was the Battle of Karbala? 

The Battle of Karbala (link) took place in 680 CE in present day Iraq. Imam Hussain (as), along with members of the Prophet’s (saw) family and a small group of companions, stood against the oppressive rule of the Umayyad caliph Yazid. 

Despite being vastly outnumbered, Imam Hussain (as) refused to pledge allegiance to injustice. He and most of the male members of the Prophet’s (saw) family were brutally martyred. 

The Significance of Karbala 

The Battle of Karbala represents timeless lessons in: 

• Standing for truth over power 

• Upholding justice in the face of oppression 

• Sacrificing worldly gain for moral and spiritual principles 

Imam Hussain’s (as) sacrifice reminds us that true leadership is rooted in values, not authority. 

What Is Hijrah Sharif? 

Hijrah Sharif refers to the migration of Prophet Muhammad (saw) and the early Muslims from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE to escape persecution. 

Although the migration did not occur in Muharram, the Islamic calendar was established in the year of the Hijrah, and Muharram was chosen as the first month. This makes Muharram a powerful time to reflect on sacrifice, perseverance and trust in Allah. 

Commemorating Muharram 

Muharram is commemorated because it is: 

• One of the four sacred months 

• Referred to as the Month of Allah (swt) 

• Rich in historical and spiritual events 

Muslims may commemorate Muharram by reflecting on the past Hijri year, attending the mosque, increasing voluntary worship, strengthening family ties and making intentions for spiritual growth in the year ahead. 

Fasting During Muharram 

Fasting in Muharram is highly recommended, especially on: 

• The 9th and 10th of Muharram 

• The 10th and 11th of Muharram 

The Prophet Muhammad (saw) encouraged fasting on Ashura and intended to fast on the 9th to differ from other communities. 

Shia Muslims generally do not fast on Ashura, as it is observed as a day of grief and mourning. 

Virtues of Muharram 

The sacred months provide an opportunity to earn immense reward but also require greater mindfulness. Recommended acts include: 

• Fasting 

• Reciting the Quran 

• Engaging in remembrance and night prayers 

• Giving charity 

• Avoiding sin and injustice 

Charity, Zakat and Sadaqah in Muharram 

Zakat During Muharram 

Many Muslims choose to give their annual Zakat during Muharram due to the multiplied rewards of this sacred month, particularly around Ashura. Charity during this time reflects the values of sacrifice and compassion embodied by Imam Hussain (as). 

Sadaqah During Muharram 

Giving Sadaqah is a meaningful way to honour the sanctity of Muharram. Acts of charity during Ashura support those in need and reinforce values of mercy, generosity and unity. 

Supporting the Vulnerable 

In the spirit of Karbala, where families were orphaned and communities suffered, Muharram is a powerful time to sponsor orphans, provide food and water and support families affected by conflict and displacement. 

A Time for Renewal 

Muharram is both a time of remembrance and a chance to begin again. It is an opportunity to renew faith, strengthen one’s relationship with Allah (swt) and carry forward the lessons of sacrifice, justice and compassion throughout the year. 

Your generosity during this sacred month helps relieve hardship and transform lives near and far. 

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