Muharram 2022 will dawn on the 29th of July this year. As the sacred month draws near, we decided to discuss what Muslims can do to observe this holy month.
Often, we memorialize religious events but do not know how important they are and how we can commemorate them. The 10th of Muharram is one such event. Muslims around the world observe this month in their own way.
Some Muslims start the year with introspection and vows to continue on their path toward Allah, while others remain in solemn reflection and grief over the brutal martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family in Kerbala.
While people may disagree on how to observe the month, all Muslims are unanimous in their belief that Muharram is a sacred and blessed month. It is your pre-requisite to observe this month as you see fit, whether by attending majalis to remember the brave deeds of the Ahl al-Bayt or by holding blood donation drives or charity campaigns.
In this blog post, we discuss 6 things that you must do in Muharram 2022 to reap the blessings of this month, remember and benefit from the lives of the Ahl al-Bayt, and learn about the significance of Muharram in Islamic history.
How is Muharram Observed in Different Countries Around the World?
Let us look at how Muharram is observed in some of the biggest countries of the world:
USA
In the US, Muharram is commemorated in different Islamic centers where Shia Muslims participate in prayer sessions and ceremonies. It is not an official holiday, so businesses and schools are not closed.
But in major cities like Chicago and New York, processions are carried out on the 9th and 10th Muharram. Some Muslims may fast on this day while others will participate in other charitable activities like providing food to those in need.
Iran
In Iran, a predominantly Shia country, the 9th and 10th of Muharram are official holidays. In Iran, the entire month of Muharram is marked with religious gatherings, processions, majalis, and remembrance in honor of the Shuhada-e-Karbala. Muslims visit Kerbala, located in Iran, from all over the world to pay homage to the martyrs.
Pakistan
Just like in Iran, the 9th and 10th of Muharram are official holidays in Pakistan. It is a time when the Shia community participates in ceremonies and prayer sessions. They attend ‘majlis’ and other get-togethers where they participate in ‘matam’ and commemorate the sad demise of Imam Hussain ibn Ali alaihissalam and his family.
Turkey
In Turkey, Muharram is observed uniquely. The Alevi community is the predominant Shia sect in the country, and along with religious gatherings and rituals, they make a special pudding with walnuts, fruits, wheat, and hazelnuts for Muharram. The community makes the pudding and shares it with neighbors and family members.
Things To Do in Muharram 2022
1. Perform Special Prayers the First 10 Days
It is important to remember that the first 10 days of the month of Muharram are significant when it comes to prayer and dua. You should make time to offer nafil prayers and recite the Holy Quran as much as possible during these days.
You can also fast during the month of Muharram. Most Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, while others choose to fast the first 10 days.
2. Attend Majalis
Majlis is an essential part of commemorating Muharram. Majalis are gatherings that are held to retell the events of Kerbala, remember the brave deeds of Imam Hussain and his companions, and highlight the significance of the Prophet’s household in Islam.
You will need to take time out of your busy schedule to attend the Majlis. You must finish up your daily chores and work so that you can participate with no stress. Majlis is a community event and a time when Shia neighbors, family members, and congregation members can sit together and remember Imam Hussain ibn Ali alaihissalam and his family.
3. Learn About the History of Muharram
Learning about the history of Muharram is a good way to teach your children the importance of commemorating this month. We touched upon it briefly, but there is rich historical context and references that are important to learn if one wants to know about Muharram.
Historical books and guides will give you an excellent start to learning about the history and the broader context of Muharram, the sacrifice of Imam Hussain ibn Ali alaihissalam, and the events that led up to his death.
Learning about historical events after his death is also essential as they will inform you of the importance of that sacrifice and how it shaped the Muslim world.
4. Give Back to the Community
Muharram is a month in which Allah rewards Muslims generously for their good deeds; therefore, it is an excellent time to give back to the community. You can do this by donating blood at your local blood bank or collecting food and rations to give to a shelter.
You can also volunteer your time at a local charity or the mosque. These are all ways that will help you remember the religious significance of Muharram. It is also a great way to get your family and children involved in commemorating Muharram.
5. Spread the Word About Imam Hussain
Spreading the word about Imam Hussain and his important teachings is another essential way of marking Muharram. Imam Hussain Alaihissalam was an important scholar and historical figure. His teachings and sayings are shared the world over. Learning the meaning behind these and their historical context is a great way to celebrate Muharram and mark the religious occasion.
6. Introspection
Taking the time to look deep within yourself to see how you as a Muslim are leading your life is a great way to remember Allah and his religious followers. Doing self-introspection and learning about ways you can better yourself is something that our faith teaches us.
We should always be looking to learn from the Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) teachings and sayings. We can do this by studying hadith and different Quranic ayat. The best way is to look at the life of our prophets and religious figures like Imam Hussain Alaihissalam.
The Takeaway from 6 Things You Must Do in Muharram! (2022)
Muharram 2022 starts on the 29h of July, and this article lists some of the best ways to mark Muharram this year with your family members and community. Whichever way you choose to observe Muharram, remember to follow in the footsteps of the Ahl al-Bayt and Sahaba to practice patience and tolerance in your daily life.
May Allah increase our knowledge and continue to bless us with his mercy.
