1st Muharram — Islamic New Year

Importance of 1st Muharram

The 1st of Muharram is the beginning of the Islamic year, but for the Shia community, it marks the start of the days of mourning (Ayyam-e-Aza). It was during this time that Imam Hussain (a.s.) began his journey to preserve the true message of Islam, opposing the corrupt Umayyad rule.

Aamal (Recommended Acts)

According to Mafatih al-Jinan, it is highly recommended to fast on the 1st of Muharram. Imam Reza (a.s.) is reported to have said that whoever fasts on this day and supplicates to Allah, his prayers will be answered just as the prayers of Prophet Zakariya (a.s.) were answered. It is also recommended to perform a two-Rakat prayer, followed by specific supplications.

Historical Context

On this day, the caravan of Imam Hussain (a.s.) was moving towards Iraq. The journey was not for worldly power, but as the Imam stated: 'I have risen to reform the Ummah of my grandfather.' (Source: Maqtal al-Husayn by Abd al-Razzaq al-Muqarram)