Growing up in a Muslim household, situated in the Sunni-dominant country of Pakistan, I was exposed to various religious traditions, from fasting in Ramadan to Eid celebrations to praying on Holy nights. However, the significance of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic new calendar, was less emphasized or not clear enough to me. With time, I became accustomed to the decades old ideological divide between Shia and Sunni Muslims, particularly evident during Muharram, due to differing beliefs about the Day of Ashura. While Shias mourn the passing of the Prophet’s grandson, Hussain Ibn Ali, Sunni practices differ.
In this article, I hope to shed light on what Ashura is and give a better understanding of the significance of this important month for the Muslim Ummah, thus creating a better mutual understanding and tolerance amongst the community. It is important to note the historical and cultural significance of Muharram for both Shia and Sunni Muslims to better understand and appreciate the diversity within Islam.
Global Significance of the Day of Ashura:
The Day of Ashura, on the 10th of Muharram holds significance for Muslim communities world-wide as it is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. For Shia communities, Ashura marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD, symbolizing sacrifice, and resistance against oppression. Shia Muslims worldwide engage in mourning rituals during the month of Muharram[1], to honour Imam Hussein’s memory.
Sunni Muslims also observe Muharram, primarily as the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, focusing on spiritual growth and devotion. According to various Hadith, Ashura is also a day of devotion, commemorating various miracles occurred on this day for different prophets, making it a time to remember these significant events as well. Fasting on Ashura is highly recommended in Sunni tradition, echoing the Prophet Muhammad’s encouragement for expiating sins[2].
Overall, Muharram fosters collective remembrance and spiritual reflection, connecting Muslims in the shared values of sacrifice and devotion within the Islamic calendar.
The battle of Karbala:
The events of Karbala, epitomized by Imam Hussein’s stand against oppression and tyranny, are central to Ashura’s significance. Imam Hussein’s refusal to pledge allegiance to the Umayyad caliph Yazid, despite facing overwhelming odds, symbolizes the eternal struggle between right and wrong. This eternal struggle between right and wrong culminated in a tragic battle at Karbala, where Hussein and his companions sacrificed their lives to expose Yazid’s tyranny. The grief over Hussein’s martyrdom was profound, extending to his family, including his daughter Sakinah Bint Hussein, who died of sorrow months later. The events of Karbala serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and righteousness against oppression.
The Day of Ashura
On the Day of Ashura, Shia Muslims engage in various rituals to honour Imam Hussein’s sacrifice and express their grief over the tragic events of Karbala.
Remembrance
Millions of Muslims from around the world converge in Karbala, Iraq, at the holy shrine of Imam Hossein. Despite the scorching temperatures, pilgrims flock to this revered site, one of the most visited in the Islamic world after Mecca. In Karbala (Iraq) and in Iran, special mourning rituals are performed, including a dramatic reenactment of the Battle of Karbala, known as “Taziya” or “Marsiya” aim at highlighting Imam Hossein’s struggle and suffering for justice to evoke empathy and sorrow among participants.
Another prominent aspect of Ashura observance common around the world, including countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines in East Asia, is the recitation of elegies and poems, known as “Noha” and “Latmiya,” which lament the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his companions. These recitations are often accompanied by mournful chants and expressions of grief, creating a sombre atmosphere of reflection and mourning. Participants often wear black attire as a symbol of mourning and sorrow.
Moreover, in Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, Bahrain, and Afghanistan, processions featuring a replica of Zuljana, the horse of Imam Hussein at Karbala are also common. Adorned with symbols and decorations, Zuljana signifies Hussein’s bravery and sacrifice. Some communities engage in rituals like touching or kissing Zuljana to show reverence. These processions symbolize Hussein’s journey and his unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
Mourning
One of the most striking rituals associated with Ashura around the world is the practice of self-flagellation, known as “Matam” or “Zanjeer Zani.” During this ritual, participants may use chains, knives, or other implements to beat their chests or backs as a symbolic gesture of mourning and solidarity with Imam Hussein’s suffering. While controversial and not universally practiced among Shia Muslims, self-flagellation is deeply rooted in the emotional and spiritual intensity of Ashura.
Food and Charity
Food traditions on the Day of Ashura vary widely around the world due to the diverse cultural practices of Muslim communities. In some regions, it’s common to prepare and share special dishes as a symbol of communal unity and charity. In South Asia, dishes like Haleem (a thick stew made of meat, lentils, and grains) and Zarda (sweet rice) are popular choices. In the Middle East, you might find dishes like Harira (a hearty soup) and Ma’amoul (date-filled cookies) being served. In Turkey, food traditions on the Day of Ashura, involve the preparation and sharing of a special dessert called Aşure, Noah’s pudding (sweet porridge made with a variety of ingredients including grains, dried fruits, and nuts). These meals are often prepared in large quantities and distributed among family, friends, and neighbours as a symbol of communal harmony and goodwill.
Overall, the Day of Ashura is a time for spiritual introspection, communal solidarity, and a renewed dedication to upholding the principles of Islam. Ashura memorializes the Battle of Karbalah which was a new phase in Islam, a phase signifying sacrifice, steadfastness and resistance to oppression. It is a time to join as Muslims, setting aside sectarian differences in the commemoration of the Day of Ashura as we can collectively chant Labaik Ya Hussein[3].
NOTES:
[1] Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar (a.k.a. Hijri Calendar) commonly used across the Muslim world for religious observations.
[2] It is reported in Sahih Muslim, one of the most well-known collections for Sunni hadith scholarship, that when asked, Prophet Muhammad replied “Fasting on the Day of Ashura, I hope will expiate the sins of the previous year.”
[3] “Labaik Ya Hussein” is an Arabic phrase that translates to “Here I am, O Hussain” or “At your service, O Hussain.” This phrase is a declaration of allegiance and a call to respond to Imam Hussain’s sacrifice and struggle for justice, truth, and righteousness. It expresses the speaker’s readiness to support and follow the principles that Imam Hussain stood for, reflecting a deep sense of loyalty and commitment. The phrase is often chanted during Ashura commemorations and other Shia Muslim gatherings to honour Imam Hussain’s legacy.
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Ashhad Hassan Malik is an emerging writer from Pakistan with a keen interest in the intersection of sociocultural dynamics and legal-politico landscape of Pakistan. In his writings he likes to extrapolate themes of architecture, cultural practices and rituals, and human rights issues. His work has earned him various accolades in Burki Kommerco and ISL Markhors Den. Beyond his academic interests, Ashhad is also a music and photography enthusiast.
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Efficiently layed out , very enlightening indeed