What is Muharram in Islamic religion?

Muharram 🌙

Muharram, is the first month of the Islamic calendar which means that every New Islamic year starts on the first of Muharram. The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar based calendar used for religious purposes in the Islamic world therefore every year Muharram starts on a different month as affected by the visibility of the moon. It holds greater significance as one of the four sacred months according to the holy Qur’an.

The name “Muharram” means “forbidden” signifying that warfare is forbidden during this month.

Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased worship during Muharram.

Muharram is a time for deep introspection, mourning and remembrance. The central event during Muharram is Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam al-Hussain (A.S) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala.

Rituals during Muharram

The rituals during Muharram include mourning sessions, processions and prayers, with Ashura being the focal point.

While Sunni Muslims fast and offer special prayers on this day, Shia Muslims also engage in practices like latmiya(chest-beating) and tatbir (self-flagellation) to express their grief and commemorate Iman al-Hussain’s sacrifice.

Key Dates in Muharram:

1st Muharram: The beginning of the new Islamic Year. While there are no prescribed days of worship, it’s a time to reflect on the journey and struggle of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the early Muslims.

Day of Ashura (10th Muharram): It commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) in the Battle of Karbala. Before the completion of Islam, it was the liberation of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh’s tyranny.

Historical and Religious Significance:

Muharram is steeped in significance as it’s the first month of the Islamic calendar, marking the Hijrah (emigration) of Muslims to Medina and the establishment of the first Islamic state in 622 CE.

Referred to in Hadith as the “month of Allah”, it holds a unique honour.

Allah (SWT) decreed it as sacred, emphasising its importance.

How to support Muslim colleagues during Muharram?

Supporting Muslim colleagues during Muharram in the workplace is essential for creating an inclusive environment.

Empathy and Understanding: Begin by acknowledging Muharram and its significance. Show empathy towards fasting colleagues and be aware of the physical side-effects of fasting.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider offering flexible working options, such as modified schedules or remote work. Longer nights spent in community and worship during Muharram may impact energy levels, so rest breaks and inclusive meeting hours can also be helpful.

Education and Resources: Provide education and resources for managers and employees can benefit in building cultural sensitivity and awareness in the workplace.

Sources

1)cipd.org  2)halaltimes.com  3)exmi.org   4)inclusiveemployers.co.uk  5)employmenthero.com