The month of Muharram is one of the four sacred months mentioned in chapter 9:36 of the Qur’an. Muharram, from the root word haram (حرام) meaning “forbidden,” indicates the sanctity of this time, where war, violence, and oppression were traditionally forbidden. It’s a month meant for peace, reflection, and spiritual renewal. It’s a Time of Spiritual Opportunity.

Our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called Muharram: “The best of fasts after Ramadan is in the Month of Allah: al-Muharram.” (Muslim) The 10th day of Muharram, ‘Ashura, is a day of deep historical and spiritual significance. The Prophet ﷺ fasted on this day in gratitude for Allah saving Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. We are closer to Musa than them,” the Prophet said, and instructed the Muslims to fast on this day. (Bukhari, Muslim). He ﷺ also encouraged fasting an additional day (9th or 11th) to distinguish from others.  The Islamic calendar starts not from the Prophet’s birth or death, but from the Hijrah (migration) from Makkah to Madinah—an act of faith, struggle, and community-building. The Hijrah marks the turning point where the Muslims, despite hardships, built a society on the values of justice, brotherhood, and submission to Allah. Muharram is also a month of remembrance—not only for victory, but for sacrifice. The family of the Prophet ﷺ, especially Imam Hussain (RA), was martyred at Karbala on the 10th of Muharram.

Imam Hussain stood against injustice and tyranny, teaching us that true leadership is rooted in principle, not power. “Every day is Ashura, and every land is Karbala”, a reminder that the stand for truth and justice is an ongoing, global mission.

The Islamic New Year is not about parties, but purpose.

The new year is a time to renew our niyyah (intention), our connection to Allah, and our responsibilities to one another. Ask yourself: What have I done with the past year? What must I leave behind in my own “Makkah” (past habits, fears, sins)? What must I pursue in my own “Madinah” (goals, growth, community)?

Goals for Muharram:
Fast on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th)
Study the Hijrah story and life of Imam Hussain
Set new spiritual goals (daily dhikr, regular salah, sadaqah)
Commit to justice in your life and community
Avoid conflict, as this is a sacred month of peace

“O Allah, bring this new year upon us with faith, safety, peace, and Islam.
Make it a year of guidance, light, and forgiveness. Ameen.”