The month of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds immense spiritual and historical significance. It is one of the four sacred months during which warfare is prohibited, and it contains the blessed day of ‘Ashura’. More profoundly, Muharram reminds us of the Hijra—the migration of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah—a defining event that reshaped Islamic history. This article explores the spiritual lessons of Muharram and the timeless teachings of the Hijra, inviting you to reflect on your own journey of faith.
The Sacred Month of Muharram in the Quran and Sunnah
Allah says in the Quran: « The number of months in the sight of Allah is twelve (in a year)- so ordained by Him the day He created the heavens and the earth; of them four are sacred: that is the straight usage. So wrong not yourselves therein, and fight the Pagans all together as they fight you all together. But know that Allah is with those who restrain themselves. » (Surah At-Tawba, verse 36). This verse establishes the sanctity of four months, and the Prophet ﷺ clarified in a hadith: ‘Time has completed its cycle and has returned to its state when Allah created the heavens and the earth. The year consists of twelve months, of which four are sacred; three of them are consecutive: Dhu al-Qi‘dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab of Mudar which comes between the months of Jumāda and Sha‘bān.’ (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). Thus, Muharram is a month of heightened spirituality and a time to avoid wrongdoing. The Prophet ﷺ also emphasized fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’ (10th of Muharram). Ibn ‘Abbās reported: ‘The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) fasted on the Day of ‘Āshūrā’, and ordered Muslims to fast on it.’ (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). Additionally, he intended to fast on the 9th as well, saying: ‘If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day.’ (Narrated by Muslim). This teaches us to seize opportunities for worship and to follow the Prophet’s ﷺ example.
Why Muharram is Called the Month of Allah
Muharram is uniquely referred to as ‘the month of Allah’ in Islamic tradition, indicating its special status. This designation encourages believers to increase their good deeds, especially fasting. The Prophet ﷺ said that the best fast after Ramadan is in the month of Allah, Muharram. This is a time to renew our commitment to Allah and seek His forgiveness.
The Hijra: A Turning Point in Islamic History
The Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his Companions from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE, was not merely a physical relocation but a profound spiritual and strategic move. It marked the transition from persecution to the establishment of the first Islamic state. The Quran alludes to the broader concept of migration for the sake of Allah: « There is for you an excellent example (to follow) in Abraham and those with him, when they said to their people: ‘We are clear of you and of whatever ye worship besides Allah: we have rejected you, and there has arisen, between us and you, enmity and hatred for ever,- unless ye believe in Allah and Him alone’ » (Surah Al-Mumtahana, verse 4). This verse highlights the courage to leave one’s homeland for faith. The Hijra teaches us that true believers are willing to sacrifice comfort and security for the sake of Allah. The Prophet ﷺ also said: ‘Worship during times of turmoil is like emigration to me.’ (Narrated by Muslim). This shows that even in difficult times, steadfast worship is highly valued.
Lessons from the Prophet’s ﷺ Journey
The Hijra was filled with tests of trust in Allah. When the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr hid in the Cave of Thawr, a spider’s web and a dove’s nest miraculously concealed them. This teaches us to rely on Allah’s plan, even when circumstances seem impossible. The journey also exemplifies strategic planning, patience, and the importance of brotherhood—the Muhajirun (emigrants) and Ansar (helpers) formed a bond of faith that transcended tribal ties.
Spiritual Lessons from Muharram and the Hijra for Today
Both Muharram and the Hijra offer timeless lessons for Muslims today. The sacred month reminds us to respect Allah’s boundaries, as He says: ‘So wrong not yourselves therein’ (Surah At-Tawba, verse 36). This is a call to avoid sins, especially during these blessed days. The Hijra inspires us to migrate from sin to obedience, from ignorance to knowledge, and from selfishness to community. The Prophet’s ﷺ compassion during the Conquest of Makkah, as narrated in a long hadith, shows that even after years of persecution, he forgave his enemies. When the Ansar worried that he might prefer Makkah, he reassured them: ‘I am a slave of Allah and His Messenger. I migrated to Allah and to you. I will live with you and I will die with you.’ (Narrated by Muslim). This teaches us loyalty and gratitude to those who support us in faith. Moreover, the Hijra is a reminder that our ultimate home is with Allah. As we begin a new Islamic year, let us reflect on our own ‘hijra’—our journey toward Allah.
Fasting on ‘Ashura: A Sunnah to Revive
The Prophet ﷺ fasted on ‘Ashura and encouraged others to do so. This fast expiates sins of the previous year. It is recommended to also fast on the 9th or 11th to distinguish from the Jewish practice. This simple act connects us to the Prophet’s ﷺ sunnah and reminds us of the salvation of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him).
How to Make the Most of Muharram and the New Islamic Year
To benefit spiritually from Muharram, consider the following practical steps: 1) Fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. 2) Increase in voluntary prayers, charity, and Quran recitation. 3) Reflect on the Hijra and set personal goals for the new year—such as improving your prayer consistency or learning more about Islam. 4) Seek forgiveness and make sincere repentance. Al Muslim Plus offers tools to help you on this journey. Use our prayer times to stay punctual, explore the Quran with tafsir, and read authentic hadiths to deepen your understanding. You can also use our Islamic AI to ask questions about the Hijra or Muharram. Let this sacred month be a springboard for spiritual growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Muharram considered a sacred month in Islam?
Muharram is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Quran (Surah At-Tawba, verse 36) and confirmed by the Prophet ﷺ in a hadith. During these months, warfare is prohibited, and good deeds are rewarded more, while sins are more severe. It is a time for increased worship and reflection.
What is the significance of the Hijra in Islam?
The Hijra marks the migration of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. It established the first Islamic state and is a cornerstone of Islamic history. The event symbolizes sacrifice, trust in Allah, and the importance of community. The Islamic calendar begins with the Hijra.
What is ‘Ashura and why do Muslims fast on this day?
‘Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram. The Prophet ﷺ fasted on this day and commanded Muslims to fast as well. It commemorates the salvation of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) from Pharaoh. Fasting on ‘Ashura expiates sins of the previous year.
Should I fast on the 9th of Muharram as well?
Yes, it is recommended to fast on the 9th along with the 10th to differentiate from the Jewish practice. The Prophet ﷺ said: ‘If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day’. You can also fast on the 11th if you miss the 9th.
What lessons can we learn from the Hijra today?
The Hijra teaches us to prioritize faith over worldly ties, to trust Allah in difficult situations, and to build strong communities based on brotherhood. It also shows the importance of strategic planning, patience, and forgiveness, as exemplified by the Prophet ﷺ upon conquering Makkah.
Can I make dua for the new Islamic year?
Yes, it is encouraged to make dua for a blessed year. There is no specific prayer for the new year, but you can ask Allah for guidance, forgiveness, and strength to increase in good deeds. Al Muslim Plus has a collection of duas for various occasions.
How can Al Muslim Plus help me during Muharram?
Al Muslim Plus offers accurate prayer times, the complete Quran with recitation, authentic hadiths, and a dhikr counter to track your worship. You can also use the Islamic AI to learn more about Muharram and the Hijra.
Muharram and the Hijra are powerful reminders of Allah’s mercy, the importance of faith, and the value of community. As we begin a new Islamic year, let us take inspiration from the Prophet’s ﷺ migration and strive to migrate toward Allah in our hearts and actions. May this month bring you closer to your Creator and fill your life with blessings. Download the Al Muslim Plus app today to access a world of Islamic knowledge and tools that will support your spiritual journey.
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Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate At-Tawba, verset 36
- Sourate Al-Mumtahana, verset 4
- Hadith n°10104 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°3592 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6217 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°10121 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°10846 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith