Muharram is a significant month in the Islamic calendar, and it is characterized by both happy and sad events. The month of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is considered a blessed time for Muslims to reflect, repent, and seek Allah's blessings.
However, the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a day of mixed emotions. It is a day of commemoration and remembrance for two significant events in Islamic history, one of which is sad, while the other carries a sense of gratitude and triumph:
Sad Event: The martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Imam Hussein's stand for justice and against oppression and tyranny is remembered with deep sorrow and mourning by many Muslims, especially those belonging to the Shia sect. The day is observed as a time of grief, and in some Muslim communities, processions and gatherings are held to remember the sacrifice of Imam Hussein.
Happy Event: According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites were saved from the tyranny of Pharaoh on the day of Ashura. Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad also fasted on this day as an expression of gratitude for this salvation. Some Sunni Muslims observe a voluntary fast on the 9th and 10th days of Muharram to commemorate this event.
As a whole, Muharram represents a combination of sadness, reflection, and celebration of faith for different Islamic communities. The specific observations and practices during this month may vary based on cultural and religious traditions.