Muharram – DuaQuran

Q: What is Muharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Quran (9:36). It is called 'Shahrullah' – the Month of Allah.

Q: Can I fast only on Ashura (10th Muharram)?

Yes, fasting on the 10th of Muharram alone is permissible according to authentic hadith. However, it is recommended to also fast on the 9th or 11th to differ from the practice of the Jews.

Q: What happened on the day of Ashura?

According to authentic hadith (Bukhari & Muslim), Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh on this day. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ began fasting Ashura when he learned of this, and encouraged the Muslims to fast.

Muharram in Islam – Complete Sunni Guide to Muharram | DuaQuran.com

✦ Navigation Guide ✦

✦ The First Month ✦

What is Muharram?

Muharram (المحرَّم) is the first month of the Islamic Hijri lunar calendar. Its name literally means "Forbidden" or "Sacred" in Arabic — a testament to its immense spiritual significance. It is one of the four sacred months (Ash-hur ul-Hurum) in which Allah ﷻ has placed special honour and virtue.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called it "Shahrullah" — The Month of Allah — a distinction not given to any other month except Ramadan. This title alone indicates its extraordinary rank in Islam.

"The best fasting after Ramadan is the month of Allah, Muharram, and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is the night prayer."

📚 Sahih Muslim | 1163

📅 Key Facts About Muharram

✦Position: 1st month of the Islamic Hijri calendar
✦Name Meaning: "Forbidden" / "Sacred" — warfare and sin were traditionally forbidden
✦Title: Shahrullah – Month of Allah
✦Days: 29 or 30 days (lunar month)
✦Key Date: 10th Muharram – Day of Ashura
✦Quran Reference: Surah At-Tawbah 9:36

إِنَّ عِدَّةَ الشُّهُورِ عِندَ اللَّهِ اثْنَا عَشَرَ شَهْرًا فِي كِتَابِ اللَّهِ يَوْمَ خَلَقَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ مِنْهَا أَرْبَعَةٌ حُرُمٌ

"Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred."

📖 Quran | Surah At-Tawbah 9:36

✦ Ash-Hur ul-Hurum ✦

The Four Sacred Months

Allah ﷻ has designated four months of the year as sacred. Sins committed during these months carry greater weight, and acts of worship are more abundantly rewarded. The Prophet ﷺ explained these months in his final sermon.

🌙

الْمُحَرَّم

Al-Muharram

The first month of the Islamic calendar. Called "Shahrullah" — the Month of Allah. The Day of Ashura falls on its 10th day.

⭐

رَجَب

Rajab

The 7th month, known as the "Month of Allah." The Isra wal Mi'raj (Night Journey) of the Prophet ﷺ occurred during this month.

🕋

ذُو الْقَعْدَة

Dhul Qa'dah

The 11th month. The month that precedes Dhul Hijjah. It was traditionally a month of truce in pre-Islamic Arabia.

🌿

ذُو الْحِجَّة

Dhul Hijjah

The 12th and final month. The blessed Hajj pilgrimage takes place in this month. The first 10 days are the best days of the year.

"The year is twelve months, of which four are sacred: three consecutive months — Dhul Qa'dah, Dhul Hijjah and Muharram — and Rajab which comes between Jumada and Sha'ban."

📚 Sahih Bukhari | 3197 | Sahih Muslim | 1679

✦ Fadha'il ul-Muharram ✦

Virtues of Muharram

🌟

Month of Allah

Muharram is uniquely called "Shahrullah" — the Month of Allah — in authentic hadith. This honour is a direct indication of its elevated status before Allah ﷻ. Just as He attributed certain houses to Himself (Masajid), He attributes this month to Himself.

✨

Best Voluntary Fasting

After the obligatory fasts of Ramadan, fasting in Muharram is the most virtuous voluntary fast a Muslim can observe. The Prophet ﷺ specifically mentioned this in Sahih Muslim, encouraging believers to increase their worship.

🤲

Sins Are More Serious

In sacred months, the consequence of sin is multiplied — as the Quran states. This should motivate the believer to be especially vigilant, increase repentance (tawbah), and guard the tongue, eyes, and heart.

📖

Rewards Are Multiplied

Just as sins are weightier in sacred months, good deeds carry greater reward. Every prayer, every dua, every act of dhikr, every act of charity in Muharram is multiplied in the sight of Allah ﷻ.

🕌

Historical Miracles

Muharram witnessed the miraculous deliverance of Prophet Musa (AS) from Pharaoh. This event is so momentous that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself observed the fast of Ashura and directed the Ummah to do the same.

🌙

Opening of the New Year

As the first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram offers the perfect opportunity for renewal of intention (niyyah), seeking forgiveness for past sins, and setting righteous goals for the year ahead with tawbah and istighfar.

"The best fasting after Ramadan is in Allah's sacred month of Muharram, and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is the night prayer (Tahajjud)."

📚 Sahih Muslim | 1163 | Narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA)

✦ Ibadah in Muharram ✦

How to Spend Muharram

Muharram is a month of intense worship, sincere repentance, and closeness to Allah ﷻ. Here is a complete guide to filling every day with ibadah, zikr, and righteous deeds according to the Quran and Sunnah.

✅

Five Daily Prayers

Foundation of Islam — pray on time

✅

Tahajjud Prayer

Pray in the last third of the night

✅

Ishraq Prayer

2-4 rakats after sunrise

✅

Duha (Chasht) Prayer

Mid-morning, 2-8 rakats

✅

Salat al-Tasbeeh

Special prayer with 300 tasbeehs

✅

Salat al-Tawbah

2 rakats for sincere repentance

✅

Quran Recitation

Read daily with understanding

✅

Daily Adhkar

Morning & evening remembrance

✅

Istighfar

Seek forgiveness constantly

✅

Durood Sharif

Send blessings on the Prophet ﷺ

✅

Charity (Sadaqah)

Give generously, even a little

✅

Helping Parents

Serve them with love and respect

✅

Helping the Poor

Feed and support those in need

✅

Maintain Family Ties

Visit relatives, call them, show love

✅

Muharram Fasting

9th, 10th, or 11th of Muharram

✅

Avoid All Sins

Guard tongue, eyes, and heart

✦ Sawm fi Muharram ✦

Fasting in Muharram

Fasting in Muharram is one of the greatest voluntary acts of worship in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ strongly recommended fasting in this sacred month, particularly on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) days.

9th

Tasu'a

Fasting on the 9th of Muharram together with Ashura was the final intention of the Prophet ﷺ before his passing, to distinguish from Jewish practice.

10th

Ashura ★ Best Day

The most virtuous fast in Muharram. Fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year according to Sahih Muslim.

11th

After Ashura

Also recommended to fast the 11th as an alternative to the 9th, in order to combine with Ashura and differ from those who fast only Ashura.

"Fasting on the Day of Ashura — I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before."

📚 Sahih Muslim | 1162 | Narrated by Abu Qatadah (RA)

"If I live until next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth [along with the tenth]."

📚 Sahih Muslim | 1134 | The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

📋 Fasting Guide for Muharram

✦Best option: Fast the 9th and 10th of Muharram (Tasu'a + Ashura)
✦Second option: Fast the 10th and 11th of Muharram
✦Minimum: Fast only the 10th (Ashura) — permissible but not ideal
✦Reward: Ashura fast expiates sins of the past year
✦Monthly fasting: If you observe fasting on the 13th, 14th, 15th (White Days) of every month, do so in Muharram too
✦Women: Women may fast Ashura as it is a voluntary fast, subject to health conditions

✦ Yawm ul-Ashura ✦

Ashura – The 10th of Muharram

Ashura (عاشوراء) means "the tenth" in Arabic. It is the most blessed day in Muharram, carrying enormous significance in Islamic history. On this day, Allah ﷻ granted Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites a miraculous victory over Pharaoh.

وَإِذْ فَرَقْنَا بِكُمُ الْبَحْرَ فَأَنجَيْنَاكُمْ وَأَغْرَقْنَا آلَ فِرْعَوْنَ وَأَنتُمْ تَنظُرُونَ

"And [recall] when We parted the sea for you and saved you and drowned the people of Pharaoh while you were looking on."

📖 Quran | Surah Al-Baqarah 2:50

When the Prophet ﷺ came to Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on Ashura. He asked why, and they said: "This is a great day on which Allah saved Musa and drowned Pharaoh, so Musa fasted on this day in gratitude." The Prophet ﷺ said: "We have more right to Musa than you," and he fasted on that day and commanded fasting on it.

📚 Sahih Bukhari | 2004 | Sahih Muslim | 1130 | Narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA)

📜 What Happened on Ashura?

🌊Allah parted the Red Sea for Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites
⚡Pharaoh and his army were drowned as they pursued Musa (AS)
🤲Prophet Musa (AS) fasted on this day in gratitude to Allah ﷻ
🌙The Prophet ﷺ commanded Muslims to fast on Ashura
✨Fasting Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year

⭐ Reward of Fasting Ashura

Fasting on the Day of Ashura is expiation (kaffarah) for the sins of the previous year — a mercy and gift from Allah ﷻ. This is based on the authentic hadith in Sahih Muslim narrated by Abu Qatadah (RA): "I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before."

✦ Muharram Duas ✦

Special Duas for Muharram

These are the most blessed supplications to recite abundantly during Muharram. Increase in these duas, especially after fajr, between asr and maghrib, and in tahajjud.

Dua 01

Sayyidul Istighfar — The Master of Forgiveness

اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ رَبِّي لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ، خَلَقْتَنِي وَأَنَا عَبْدُكَ، وَأَنَا عَلَى عَهْدِكَ وَوَعْدِكَ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُ، أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا صَنَعْتُ، أَبُوءُ لَكَ بِنِعْمَتِكَ عَلَيَّ، وَأَبُوءُ بِذَنْبِي، فَاغْفِرْ لِي، فَإِنَّهُ لَا يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ

Allāhumma anta rabbī lā ilāha illā anta, khalaqtanī wa anā ʿabduka, wa anā ʿalā ʿahdika wa waʿdika mastataʿtu, aʿūdhu bika min sharri mā ṣanaʿtu, abūʾu laka biniʿmatika ʿalayya, wa abūʾu bidhanbī, faghfir lī, fa-innahū lā yaghfiru al-dhunūba illā ant

"O Allah, You are my Lord. There is no god but You. You created me and I am Your servant. I am upon Your covenant and promise as much as I am able. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge Your grace upon me, and I acknowledge my sin. So forgive me, for none forgives sins but You."

📚 Sahih Bukhari | 6306 — "Whoever says this with conviction in the evening and dies that night will enter Paradise."

Dua 02

Dua for Forgiveness — Yunus (AS) Supplication

لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي كُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ

Lā ilāha illā anta subḥānaka innī kuntu mina al-ẓālimīn

"There is no god but You. Glory be to You. Indeed I was among the wrongdoers."

📖 Quran 21:87 | The Prophet ﷺ said: "No Muslim ever calls upon his Lord with these words for any reason without Allah responding to him." (Tirmidhi – Hasan)

Dua 03

Morning Adhkar – Seeking Allah's Protection

بِسْمِ اللهِ الَّذِي لَا يَضُرُّ مَعَ اسْمِهِ شَيْءٌ فِي الأَرْضِ وَلَا فِي السَّمَاءِ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

Bismillāhi alladhī lā yaḍurru maʿa ismihi shayʾun fil-arḍi wa lā fis-samāʾi wa huwa as-samīʿu al-ʿalīm

"In the name of Allah by whose name nothing is harmed in the earth or in the heaven. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing."

📚 Abu Dawud 5088 | Tirmidhi 3388 — Recite 3 times in the morning for full-day protection

Dua 04

Evening Adhkar — Complete Trust in Allah

أَمْسَيْنَا وَأَمْسَى الْمُلْكُ لِلَّهِ، وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

Amsaynā wa amsal-mulku lillāhi wal-ḥamdu lillāhi, lā ilāha illallāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-ḥamdu wa huwa ʿalā kulli shayʾin qadīr

"We have entered the evening, and at this very time unto Allah belongs all sovereignty, and all praises are for Allah. None has the right to be worshipped but Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs sovereignty and all praise, and He is over all things omnipotent."

📚 Sahih Muslim | 2723 — Recite every evening

Dua 05

Durood Ibrahim — Sending Blessings on the Prophet ﷺ

اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ كَمَا صَلَّيْتَ عَلَى إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلَى آلِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ إِنَّكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيدٌ

Allāhumma ṣalli ʿalā Muḥammadin wa ʿalā āli Muḥammadin kamā ṣallayta ʿalā Ibrāhīma wa ʿalā āli Ibrāhīma innaka ḥamīdun majīd

"O Allah, send prayers upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You sent prayers upon Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Verily You are the Praiseworthy, the Glorious."

📚 Sahih Bukhari | 3370 | Recite abundantly in Muharram — each durood earns 10 blessings

Dua 06

Rabbana Atina — Dua for Good in Both Worlds

رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

Rabbanā ātinā fid-dunyā ḥasanatan wa fil-ākhirati ḥasanatan wa qinā ʿadhāban-nār

"Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire."

📖 Quran 2:201 | The Prophet ﷺ recited this dua frequently | Sahih Bukhari 4522

Dua 07

Hasbunallah — Sufficiency of Allah

حَسْبُنَا اللهُ وَنِعْمَ الْوَكِيلُ

Ḥasbunallāhu wa niʿmal-wakīl

"Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs."

📖 Quran 3:173 | This was the words of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) when thrown into fire | Abu Dawud 3628

Dua 08

Dua of Forgiveness — Mercy of Allah

اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي

Allāhumma innaka ʿafuwwun tuḥibbul-ʿafwa faʿfu ʿannī

"O Allah, You are the Pardoner, You love to pardon, so pardon me."

📚 Tirmidhi | 3513 | Ibn Majah | 3119 — Recommended especially in Laylatul Qadr and sacred months

Dua 09

Dua for Guidance on the Straight Path

اهْدِنَا الصِّرَاطَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ غَيْرِ الْمَغْضُوبِ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا الضَّالِّينَ

Ihdinā al-ṣirāṭal-mustaqīm, ṣirāṭa alladhīna anʿamta ʿalayhim, ghayril-maghḍūbi ʿalayhim wa laḍ-ḍāllīn

"Guide us to the straight path — the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favour, not of those who have earned anger or those who are astray."

📖 Quran 1:6-7 | Al-Fatihah — Recite with sincere heart and contemplation daily

Dua 10

Dua for Strong Iman and Good End

يَا مُقَلِّبَ الْقُلُوبِ ثَبِّتْ قَلْبِي عَلَى دِينِكَ

Yā muqallibal-qulūbi thabbit qalbī ʿalā dīnik

"O Turner of hearts, keep my heart firm upon Your religion."

📚 Tirmidhi | 3522 — The Prophet ﷺ used to say this frequently

✦ Quranic Recitation ✦

Best Surahs to Recite in Muharram

Increase your Quran recitation during Muharram. These Surahs carry immense blessings and are recommended in the Sunnah. Recite them with understanding and reflection.

Surah Al-Fatihah

سُورَةُ الْفَاتِحَة

The Opening. Recite in every rakat. It is "Umm al-Quran" — the mother of the Quran — and a cure for all spiritual ailments.

Surah Al-Baqarah

سُورَةُ الْبَقَرَة

The Cow. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Recite Al-Baqarah, for taking it is a blessing and leaving it is a cause of grief, and the magicians cannot confront it." (Muslim)

Surah Yaseen

سُورَةُ يس

The heart of the Quran. Recite for the blessing of the deceased, at night before sleep, and when seeking forgiveness and mercy.

Surah Al-Kahf

سُورَةُ الْكَهْف

The Cave. Recite every Friday for light between the two Fridays and protection from Dajjal (Muslim). Also excellent in Muharram.

Surah Al-Mulk

سُورَةُ الْمُلْك

The Sovereignty. The Prophet ﷺ said: "It intercedes for its companion until he is forgiven." Recite every night before sleep. (Tirmidhi)

112

Surah Al-Ikhlas

سُورَةُ الْإِخْلَاص

The Purity. Equal to one-third of the Quran. Recite 3 times for the reward of completing the full Quran. Increases love of Allah. (Bukhari)

113

Surah Al-Falaq

سُورَةُ الْفَلَق

The Daybreak. Recite for protection from evil, black magic, envy, and harm. Recite after every fardh prayer and before sleeping.

114

Surah An-Nas

سُورَةُ النَّاس

Mankind. Protection from Shaytan and the whisperings of evil. Recite with Al-Falaq together 3 times morning and evening for complete protection.

✦ Nafl Salah ✦

Nafl Prayers for Muharram

Increase your voluntary prayers in Muharram to draw closer to Allah ﷻ. Each nafl prayer is a step toward Allah's love and forgiveness, as He said: "My servant continues to draw near to Me with nafl deeds until I love him." (Bukhari)

Tahajjud

تَهَجُّد

Rakats: Minimum 2, best 8–12 + Witr
Time: Last third of the night (after midnight until Fajr)
Benefit: The closest a servant is to Allah is in the last third of the night. The Prophet ﷺ never abandoned Tahajjud. Duas are accepted in this time.

Ishraq

إِشْرَاق

Rakats: 2–4 rakats
Time: 15–20 minutes after sunrise
Benefit: "Whoever prays Fajr in congregation then sits doing dhikr until the sun rises, then prays 2 rakats, he will have a reward like that of Hajj and Umrah – complete, complete, complete." (Tirmidhi)

Duha (Chasht)

صَلَاةُ الضُّحَى

Rakats: 2–12 rakats (even numbers)
Time: After 15 minutes of sunrise until before Dhuhr
Benefit: "In the morning a charity is due on every bone of every person. Every tasbih is a charity, every tahmid is a charity… and Salat al-Duha encompases all of that." (Muslim 720)

Salat al-Tawbah

صَلَاةُ التَّوْبَة

Rakats: 2 rakats
Time: Any time except forbidden times (sunrise, zenith, sunset)
Benefit: "There is no one who commits a sin, then he purifies himself properly, then stands and prays two rak'ahs, then asks Allah for forgiveness, but Allah will forgive him." (Abu Dawud 1521)

Salat al-Hajah

صَلَاةُ الْحَاجَة

Rakats: 2 rakats
Time: Any permitted time
Benefit: A special prayer to fulfill a need. Pray 2 rakats sincerely, then make heartfelt dua. Allah responds to the caller who is sincere. Especially powerful in Muharram and in the night prayer.

Salat al-Tasbeeh

صَلَاةُ التَّسْبِيح

Rakats: 4 rakats with 300 tasbeehs total
Time: Any permissible time (best in daytime)
Benefit: The Prophet ﷺ said to his uncle Abbas (RA): "Pray this and Allah will forgive your sins, the first and the last, the old and the new, the intentional and the unintentional, the small and the great." (Abu Dawud 1297)

✦ Khuttat ul-Ibadah ✦

30-Day Muharram Worship Plan

A complete structured plan for maximizing your worship during the sacred month of Muharram. Follow this daily guide for blessings, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah ﷻ.

Day	Quran / Surah	Recommended Dua	Charity Act	Extra Worship
1	Al-Fatihah + Baqarah 1-20	Sayyidul Istighfar (morning)	Feed one person	Make sincere Tawbah, renew intentions
2	Baqarah 21-50	Rabbana Atina Fid Dunya	Donate to masjid	Pray Ishraq, recite 100× Istighfar
3	Baqarah 51-100	Hasbunallah wa Ni'mal Wakeel	Give Sadaqah to poor	Salat al-Tawbah, write Islamic goals
4	Baqarah 101-150	Durood Ibrahim (100×)	Visit a sick person	Duha Prayer, learn a new dua
5	Baqarah 151-200 + Ayat ul-Kursi	La ilaha illa anta subhanaka	Share Islamic knowledge	Read a chapter of Islamic book
6	Al-Imran 1-50	Ya Muqallibal Qulub	Help a neighbor	Salat al-Tasbeeh
7	Al-Imran 51-100	Morning & Evening Adhkar (complete)	Donate clothes	Tahajjud + Witr prayer
8	Al-Imran 101-150	Sayyidul Istighfar (morning & evening)	Donate food to orphanage	Pray Ishraq + Duha + read 1 Juz
9 ★	Surah Yaseen (full)	Sayyidul Istighfar (100×)	Give generous Sadaqah	⭐ Fast Tasu'a — prepare for Ashura
10 ⭐	Surah Al-Mulk + Baqarah 284-286	All 10 Muharram Duas (full)	Feed the poor abundantly	⭐ FAST ASHURA — Tahajjud at night — recite abundant dhikr
11 ★	Surah Al-Kahf (full)	Allahumma innaka Afuwwun	Expand rizq: spend on family	⭐ Fast 11th — Salat al-Hajah
12	An-Nisa 1-60	Rabbana Atina + Hasbunallah	Visit parents / call relatives	Attend Islamic lecture or bayaan
13	An-Nisa 61-120	Durood Sharif 300×	Donate to Islamic school	Fast (Ayyam al-Beedh – White Days)
14	An-Nisa 121-176	Morning Adhkar + La hawla wala quwwata	Help a struggling family	Fast (White Days), Tahajjud
15	Al-Maidah 1-50	Sayyidul Istighfar (twice)	Give Sadaqah secretly	Fast (White Days), Salat al-Tasbeeh
16	Al-Maidah 51-100	Dua for strong Iman	Share Quran to others	Night dhikr: SubhanAllah 100×
17	Al-An'am 1-60	Allahumma Atina Fid Dunya Hasana	Plant a tree (sadaqah jariyah)	Read Sirah of Prophet ﷺ
18	Al-An'am 61-120	Laa ilaha illa anta subhanaka	Support orphans	Salat al-Tawbah, deep reflection
19	Al-An'am 121-165	Sayyidul Istighfar + Durood 100×	Make dua for ummah	Fajr in congregation, Ishraq after
20	Surah Al-Kahf (full)	Morning & Evening Adhkar (complete)	Teach a child about Islam	Recite Ayat ul-Kursi 100×
21	Al-A'raf 1-60	Hasbunallah + Allahumma Afuwwun	Donate water (sadaqah jariyah)	Tahajjud + long duas
22	Al-A'raf 61-120	Durood Ibrahim (full, 100×)	Help a widow or divorced woman	Memorize a new surah or ayah
23	Al-A'raf 121-206	La hawla wala quwwata illa billah (300×)	Volunteer for Islamic work	Salat al-Hajah for important need
24	Al-Anfal (full)	Sayyidul Istighfar + Tawbah dua	Forgive someone who wronged you	Deep tawbah session at Tahajjud
25	At-Tawbah 1-60	All morning adhkar (complete set)	Sponsor Iftar for a fasting person	Salat al-Tasbeeh + Ishraq
26	At-Tawbah 61-129	Rabbana Atina + Ya Muqallib	Make dua for deceased parents	Surah Ikhlas × 100 for parents' souls
27	Surah Yaseen + Al-Mulk	Sayyidul Istighfar + Durood 300×	Donate to medical charity	Night of worship — multiple nawafil
28	Yunus + Hud (first halves)	La ilaha illa anta + Hasbunallah	Help in masjid maintenance	Read about Muharram & Ashura sunnah
29	Surah Al-Ikhlas + Falaq + Nas (100× each)	Complete evening adhkar set	Send food to neighbors	Salat al-Tawbah + deep istighfar
30	Al-Baqarah 284-286 + Surah Al-Fatihah 41×	All 10 Duas of Muharram (conclude)	Give your best Sadaqah of the month	Make complete dua for the new month — renew intentions for Safar

✦ Qasas ul-Anbiya ✦

Prophet Stories Connected to Muharram

The sacred month of Muharram is deeply intertwined with the stories of the Prophets of Allah ﷻ. These stories carry timeless lessons of faith, patience, and trust in Allah — lessons we need in every era.

🌊

Prophet Musa (AS) & Pharaoh

سَيِّدُنَا مُوسَى عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام

The most directly connected story to Muharram. Prophet Musa (AS) was sent to the tyrant Pharaoh (Fir'awn) of Egypt who enslaved the Israelites. Allah ﷻ granted Musa (AS) miracles — the staff, the glowing hand — yet Pharaoh persisted in arrogance. Finally, Allah commanded Musa (AS) to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When Pharaoh's army pursued them to the Red Sea, Allah miraculously parted the sea, allowing Musa (AS) and the believers to cross safely. As Pharaoh's army attempted to follow, the sea closed upon them. On the 10th of Muharram (Ashura), Allah ﷻ completed this miraculous deliverance. Lesson: When you trust Allah completely, He opens ways you never imagined.

⛵

Prophet Nuh (AS) & The Ark

سَيِّدُنَا نُوحٌ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام

Prophet Nuh (AS) called his people to monotheism for 950 years. The people mocked and rejected him. Allah ﷻ revealed to Nuh (AS) to build an ark. When the flood came, it destroyed the disbelievers. According to scholars of tafsir and Islamic tradition, the ark came to rest after the flood waters receded on the 10th of Muharram, and Nuh (AS) fasted in gratitude. He is the "second father of humanity." Lesson: Patience in the face of mockery is a sign of true faith. Never abandon your duty to convey truth.

🐋

Prophet Yunus (AS)

سَيِّدُنَا يُونُسُ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام

Prophet Yunus (AS) — also called Dhun-Nun (Man of the Whale) — left his people in frustration before Allah's command. He boarded a ship, was thrown into the sea, and swallowed by a great whale. In the darkness of the whale's belly, in the darkness of the ocean, in the darkness of the night, he called upon Allah with the powerful dua: "La ilaha illa anta subhanaka inni kuntu minaz zalimeen." Allah responded and he was released after 40 days. Lesson: No darkness is too deep for Allah's light to reach. Call upon Him sincerely in every difficulty.

🌱

Prophet Adam (AS)

سَيِّدُنَا آدَمُ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام

Our father Prophet Adam (AS) was created by Allah's own hands, breathed the Divine spirit into him, and the angels were commanded to prostrate. However, Iblis (Shaytan) refused out of arrogance. Adam (AS) was placed in Jannah but was tested with the forbidden tree. When he erred, he immediately turned to Allah in sincere repentance: "Rabbana zalamna anfusana wa in lam taghfir lana wa tarhamna lana kunanna minal khasireen." (7:23) Allah forgave him and sent him to earth as His khalifah. Islamic scholars mention that Adam's descent took place in Muharram. Lesson: Sincere repentance is always accepted. Allah loves those who turn back to Him.

⭐

Prophet Yusuf (AS)

سَيِّدُنَا يُوسُفُ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام

The Quran calls the story of Yusuf (AS) the "best of stories" (ahsanul qasas). He was thrown into a well by his jealous brothers, sold as a slave, falsely accused by Zulaikha, and imprisoned — yet he never lost faith or became bitter. His beauty was matched by his character. After years, Allah elevated him to become the Minister of Egypt and he was reunited with his family. His famous prayer: "You are my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Cause me to die as a Muslim and join me with the righteous." (12:101). Lesson: What appears to be loss may be the path to your greatest elevation. Never despair of Allah's plan.

✦ Historical Account ✦

Imam Husain (RA) & Karbala

Husain ibn Ali (RA) was the beloved grandson of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the son of Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) and Fatimah al-Zahra (RA). The Prophet ﷺ said: "Husain is from me and I am from Husain. Allah loves whoever loves Husain." (Tirmidhi 3775 – Hasan)

📜 Who was Imam Husain (RA)?

✦Grandson of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from his daughter Fatimah (RA)
✦Born in Madinah in the 4th year after Hijrah (3 AH or 4 AH)
✦A companion of the Prophet ﷺ (Sahabi)
✦Known for his immense knowledge, piety, courage, and generosity
✦The Prophet ﷺ called him and his brother Hasan the "chiefs of the youth of Paradise"

"Al-Hasan and Al-Husain are the chiefs of the youth of Paradise."

📚 Tirmidhi | 3768 | Ibn Majah | 118 — Hadith declared Sahih

⚔️ The Events of Karbala (61 AH)

In the year 61 AH (680 CE), during the reign of Yazid ibn Muawiyah, Husain ibn Ali (RA) refused to pledge allegiance to what he considered an unjust and oppressive rulership. He set out from Madinah toward Kufa (Iraq) with his family and companions, having received invitations from the people of Kufa promising support.

However, when he reached the plains of Karbala in Iraq, the promised support did not materialise. He and his small group of 72 men were confronted by a vast army. Cut off from water, the group faced extreme hardship. On the 10th of Muharram 61 AH — the Day of Ashura — the tragic battle took place. Husain (RA) and his companions were martyred, and he met his death with immense courage, patience, and dignity. May Allah be pleased with him.

🕊️

Patience (Sabr)

Husain (RA) showed extraordinary patience in the face of immense adversity and loss

⚖️

Justice (Adl)

He stood for justice and against oppression, following Islamic principles

🦁

Courage (Shuja'ah)

His bravery in standing for truth despite overwhelming opposition is legendary

🌟

Truth (Haqq)

He refused to abandon truth and principles even at the cost of his life

📌 Sunni Perspective on Karbala

Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama'ah holds Imam Husain (RA) in the highest respect and love. His martyrdom was a great tragedy and an unjust killing that the Ummah mourns in the heart. However, the correct way to commemorate this event, according to authentic Sunnah, is NOT through mourning rituals, self-flagellation, chest-beating, wailing, or ta'ziya processions — none of these practices are established from the Quran or authentic Sunnah. Rather, we remember Husain (RA) with love, pray for him, draw lessons from his courage and patience, and renew our commitment to justice and truth. Ibn Taymiyyah (RA) wrote: "The correct position is to abstain from all that is not in accordance with the Sunnah."

✦ Important Reminder ✦

Common Bid'ah & Misconceptions

With respect and care, we address certain practices that have spread among some Muslims but have no basis in the authentic Quran and Sunnah. We remind with love, not judgment, as the Prophet ﷺ said: "Every innovation is misguidance." (Muslim 867)

💛 Important Note: The following practices are mentioned with the sincere intention of education and clarification. We do not condemn individuals — we clarify what is established from authentic Sunnah and what is not. May Allah guide all of us to the truth.

⚠️
Matam (Self-flagellation): Beating oneself, cutting oneself, or flagellating in mourning has no basis in Sunni Islam. The Prophet ﷺ forbade excessive mourning and self-harm. (Bukhari 1294)
⚠️
Chest-Beating (Latum): Striking the chest as an act of grief over Karbala is not established from the Quran, Sunnah, or the practice of the Sahabah.
⚠️
Ta'ziya Processions: Elaborate funeral processions with replicas of tombs, loud wailing, and theatrical displays are innovations without authentic basis.
⚠️
Muharram as a Month of Bad Luck: Muharram is NOT an unlucky month. It is a sacred and blessed month of Allah. Considering it inauspicious for marriage or events has no Islamic basis.
⚠️
New Year Celebrations like Non-Muslims: Celebrating the Islamic New Year by imitating non-Muslim festivals, with parties, music, and so on, is not from Sunnah.
⚠️
Special Food Rituals: Preparing specific foods on Ashura as an obligatory ritual and believing they have special religious merit has no authentic hadith support.
⚠️
Excessive Eulogies and Weeping Gatherings: Large gatherings focused purely on wailing and lamentation over Karbala are an innovation not practiced by the Sahabah.
⚠️
Wearing Black Clothing: Wearing black specifically in Muharram as an act of mourning is a cultural practice not established in authentic Sunnah.

"Whoever innovates in this matter of ours [Islam] something that is not part of it, it will be rejected."

📚 Sahih Bukhari | 2697 | Sahih Muslim | 1718

✦ Frequently Asked Questions ✦

Muharram FAQs

What is the significance of Muharram in Islam? ▼

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and one of the four sacred months mentioned in Quran 9:36. It is called "Shahrullah" — the Month of Allah — by the Prophet ﷺ. It holds special virtue, and fasting in it is the best voluntary fast after Ramadan (Sahih Muslim 1163).

Can I fast only on Ashura (10th Muharram)? ▼

Yes, fasting only on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) is permissible according to authentic hadith. However, it is more rewarding and recommended to also fast on the 9th (Tasu'a) or the 11th to distinguish from the Jewish practice. The Prophet ﷺ intended to fast both the 9th and 10th (Muslim 1134).

What happened on the Day of Ashura? ▼

On the 10th of Muharram, Allah ﷻ miraculously saved Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites from Pharaoh by parting the Red Sea, and drowned Pharaoh's army. When the Prophet ﷺ discovered that the Jews fasted on this day in gratitude for this miracle, he said: "We have more right to Musa than you" and commanded Muslims to fast (Sahih Bukhari 2004).

What is the reward for fasting on Ashura? ▼

The Prophet ﷺ said: "Fasting on the Day of Ashura — I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before." (Sahih Muslim 1162). This means fasting on Ashura expiates the minor sins of the past year — a tremendous mercy from Allah ﷻ.

Can women fast on Ashura? ▼

Yes, women can fast on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) of Muharram. Ashura is a voluntary (nafl) fast that is recommended for both men and women. Women should avoid fasting during their menstrual cycle and can make it up later if they wish, though it is not obligatory to make it up.

Is Muharram unlucky for marriage or starting new things? ▼

No, absolutely not! This is a cultural superstition with no basis in Islam. Muharram is a sacred and blessed month of Allah. Marriage, travel, and starting new ventures in Muharram are entirely permissible. The concept of "bad luck months" is not Islamic but rather a pre-Islamic superstition that Islam came to eliminate.

Can I perform Umrah in Muharram? ▼

Yes, Umrah can be performed in Muharram and it is a blessed act. There is no prohibition on Umrah in this month. In fact, the sacred month adds to the virtue of ibadah performed within it. Many scholars recommend visiting the Haramayn during sacred months for increased reward.

What is the ruling on mourning for Imam Husain (RA) in Muharram? ▼

In Sunni Islam, we love and respect Imam Husain (RA) deeply. His martyrdom was a great tragedy. However, expressing this through mourning rituals such as self-flagellation, chest-beating, wailing gatherings, or ta'ziya processions is not established in authentic Sunnah. The Sunni approach is to remember him with love, pray for him, and draw lessons from his courage and steadfastness.

Should I fast the 9th, 10th or 11th — or all three? ▼

The strongest Sunnah is to fast the 9th and 10th together. The Prophet ﷺ intended to do this (Muslim 1134). Alternatively, the 10th and 11th is also valid. Fasting all three (9th, 10th, 11th) is also permissible and carries great reward, though this was not specifically narrated from the Prophet ﷺ. The minimum is the 10th alone.

What special duas should I recite in Muharram? ▼

The best duas in Muharram include: Sayyidul Istighfar, Dua of Yunus (AS), morning and evening adhkar, Durood Ibrahim, Rabbana Atina Fid Dunya, Hasbunallahu wa Ni'mal Wakeel, and Allahumma Innaka Afuwwun. Focus especially on tawbah (repentance) and istighfar, as this is the spirit of the sacred month.

Is Muharram part of the Islamic New Year? ▼

Yes, Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic Hijri New Year. However, Islam does not prescribe specific "New Year" celebrations or rituals. The correct approach is to reflect, make tawbah, set righteous goals, increase worship, and fast — especially on Ashura. There is no basis for parties or festivities mimicking non-Muslim New Year celebrations.

What are the four sacred months and why are they special? ▼

The four sacred months are Muharram, Rajab, Dhul Qa'dah, and Dhul Hijjah (Quran 9:36). They are special because: (1) sins carry greater weight in them, (2) good deeds carry greater reward, (3) warfare was traditionally forbidden in them in Arabia, and (4) they represent seasons of extra worship, reflection, and closeness to Allah.

Why did the Prophet ﷺ call Muharram "Shahrullah" (Month of Allah)? ▼

Scholars explain that attributing Muharram to Allah directly ("Month of Allah") indicates its supreme honour. Just as Allah ﷻ calls the Masjid "My House" (baytullah) to elevate its status, calling Muharram "My Month" elevates it above all other months. This title also implies that Allah will specially reward acts of worship done in this month.

Is preparing special food for Ashura a Sunnah? ▼

No, there is no authentic hadith that specifies any particular food to be prepared on Ashura. This is a cultural tradition in some regions that has been mistakenly given the status of a religious practice. The only established Sunnah for Ashura is fasting on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) of Muharram.

What is Tasu'a? Why should we fast on the 9th? ▼

Tasu'a (تاسوعاء) means "the ninth" in Arabic. The Prophet ﷺ said: "If I live to see next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth [along with the tenth]." (Muslim 1134). The wisdom is to differ from the Jews who only observed the fast of the 10th. Unfortunately, the Prophet ﷺ passed away before the next Muharram, so scholars follow his stated intention.

Can I make up a missed Ramadan fast in Muharram? ▼

Yes, Muharram is an excellent time to make up missed Ramadan fasts (qadha). However, scholars debate whether you need to have a clear intention of qadha vs nafl. The majority position is that you should make a clear niyyah for qadha. You can additionally intend for the blessing of Muharram voluntary fasting while making up the Ramadan fasts.

Should we cry over Karbala on Ashura? ▼

Natural grief in one's heart for the tragedy of Karbala is human and understandable. However, organized mourning gatherings, wailing, lamentation ceremonies, and ritual crying are not established in authentic Sunnah. The proper Sunnah for Ashura is fasting. The Sahabah who were alive at the time of Karbala did not observe such rituals.

Is it permissible to get married in Muharram? ▼

Yes, marriage (nikah) in Muharram is completely permissible and there is no prohibition. The idea that Muharram is an inauspicious month for marriage is a cultural superstition with no Islamic basis. Islam encourages facilitating marriage and does not restrict it to specific months except during the state of ihram.

What is the Islamic ruling on wearing black in Muharram? ▼

Wearing black specifically as a mourning practice for Ashura or the events of Karbala is not established in the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ or the practice of the Sahabah. While black clothing is permissible in general, wearing it specifically as a ritual mourning practice for Muharram is considered a bid'ah (innovation) by Sunni scholars.

How do I calculate when Ashura falls this year? ▼

Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic Hijri calendar. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, the date changes each year in the Gregorian calendar. You can check an Islamic calendar, a local masjid announcement, or an Islamic app to determine the exact date of Muharram in your region, as it may differ by 1-2 days based on moon sighting.

Can children fast on Ashura? ▼

Children below the age of puberty are not obligated to fast, but if they are healthy and wish to fast, it can be encouraged as a means of training and habit-building. The Prophet ﷺ's companions even distracted young children with toys when they became hungry during Ashura fasting in the early years. Parents should use their judgment based on the child's health and capability.

What nafl prayers are most recommended in Muharram? ▼

The most recommended nafl prayers in Muharram are: (1) Tahajjud — prayer in the last third of the night, (2) Ishraq — 2-4 rakats after sunrise, (3) Duha — 2-12 rakats in mid-morning, (4) Salat al-Tasbeeh — for seeking forgiveness, (5) Salat al-Tawbah — 2 rakats for sincere repentance, and (6) Salat al-Hajah — 2 rakats for any important need.

Is the fast of Ashura obligatory (fardh)? ▼

The fast of Ashura is not obligatory (fardh). It was obligatory before the fasting of Ramadan was ordained. Once Ramadan fasting became obligatory, the Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever wishes to fast on this day may fast, and whoever does not wish to fast need not fast." (Bukhari 2002). However, it remains a highly recommended Sunnah with immense reward.

What is the connection between Muharram and the Hijri calendar? ▼

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic Hijri calendar — the calendar that begins from the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. This calendar was formally established during the Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA). So the beginning of Muharram marks the Islamic New Year, though Islam doesn't prescribe specific celebrations for it.

What is the best way to spend Ashura Day? ▼

The best way to spend Ashura: (1) Fast the 9th and 10th together, (2) Begin the day with Fajr in congregation, (3) Recite morning adhkar and all 10 recommended duas, (4) Give Sadaqah generously, (5) Recite abundant istighfar and durood, (6) Spend time in Quran recitation, (7) Pray Tahajjud the night before, (8) Make sincere dua for the Ummah and the deceased. Avoid all bid'ah practices.

✦ Words of Wisdom ✦

Islamic Quotes on Muharram & Taqwa

"The best of fasting after Ramadan is the fasting in the Month of Allah — Muharram. And the best of prayer after the obligatory is the night prayer."

— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Sahih Muslim 1163

"Muharram is the Month of Allah. Whoever fasts a day in it, it is as if he has fasted a thousand days."

— Reported by At-Tabarani in al-Mu'jam al-Awsat (weak chain — mentioned for motivation)

"Indeed the hearts become rusty just as iron becomes rusty with water, and its polish is the remembrance of Allah and reciting the Quran."

— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Bayhaqi | Al-Shu'ab

"A servant will not reach the station of the pious (Muttaqeen) until he abandons what is harmless out of fear of what may be harmful."

— Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)

"Whoever is patient, Allah will grant him patience. No one has been given a greater or better gift than patience."

— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Sahih Bukhari 1469

"Our sins put us in chains — our repentance breaks those chains. In Muharram, break free."

— Islamic Reflection

"Death is the wisest advisor. Let Muharram remind you: this world is temporary — invest in the Akhirah."

— Islamic Reflection

"Husain taught me that even in the face of darkness, the light of truth must never be extinguished."

— Islamic Reflection on the life of Imam Husain (RA)

"The person who repents from sin is like the one who never sinned."

— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Ibn Majah 4250

"Do not ever lose hope in the mercy of Allah. Even if you feel distant, He is always near. Make this Muharram the month you return to Him."

— Islamic Reminder

"The best ibadah in Muharram is not just fasting — it is the ibadah of the heart: repentance, sincerity, and gratitude."

— Scholars of Ahlus Sunnah

"True Taqwa is not just in the mosque. It is in your dealings, your tongue, your eyes, and your intentions."

— Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah (RA)

"If Allah saved Musa (AS) from the sea, He can save you from whatever ocean you are drowning in. Just call upon Him."

— Islamic Reflection on Ashura

"New year, new beginnings — but let your resolution be a new connection with your Creator, not just a new habit."

— Islamic New Year Reflection

"The sacred months are seasons of profit for the believer. Do not let Muharram pass without filling your account with good deeds."

— Scholars of Ahlus Sunnah

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🌙 Muharram – The Sacred Month of Allah

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