Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, will be observed on Saturday, July 29, 2023. This sacred month holds great significance for Muslims as it marks the beginning of the new Islamic year, known as the Hijri year. Muharram is often referred to as the "Month of Allah," highlighting its special religious importance in the Islamic tradition. During this month, Muslims may engage in various acts of worship, reflection, and remembrance to commemorate historical events and seek spiritual growth.

Muharram unveils an epic tale of survival, hope, redemption, and resilience. As Ismal faith embarks on the wondrous history of the Hijra intertwined with Muharram, the courageous flight of the Muhajirs and the unwavering dedication of the Anwars emerge as a glorious testament, warming our hearts and filling us with awe.

Vibrant memories of the teachings of the earlier prophets in Islamic history inspire us to find hope even in the most desperate circumstances. Yusuf (a) emerged from prison, Sulaiman (a) ascended to kingship, Yunus (a) escaped the belly of the fish, Musa (a) was bestowed with the Torah, and Ibrahim (a) was saved from the raging fire. On the 10th of Muharram, Pharaoh met his demise in the Red Sea, marking not only the end of an extraordinary era but also the birth of a new one. Pharaoh had schemed to eliminate opposition, suppress dissent, and quash protests against him, even resorting to the heartless act of killing innocent children. However, the cosmic forces that thwart such tyrannical machinations ultimately lead to the downfall of the arrogant. Ironically, Pharaoh raised the very child who would rise against him in his own palace, unaware of the imminent challenge to his authority.

The Pharaohs' oppressive ethno-communal rule perpetuated a divided society, with inequality and horrific racial riots sanctioned by the state, targeting the Banu Israel community. From the heart of Pharaoh's palace, Musa (pbuh) fearlessly raised his voice against the dictatorial brutality. The Quran eloquently captures Prophet Musa's expression of resistance, providing inspiration and guidance for all who stand against injustice. The pinnacle of this resistance manifested at the Red Sea on the 10th of Muharram, where Pharaoh and his followers met their demise. The fall of the Pharaohs carries profound lessons for modern governments and rulers who misuse their power for mischief.

Devotions on Muharram 10:  Fasting on the 10th of Muharram holds great virtue and piety. The Beloved Prophet (PBUH) said, "After Ramadan, the best fast is that of Allah's month of Muharram" (Muslim). It is Sunnah to be generous with food and provisions for one's wife and children on this auspicious day. "Whoever extends kindness to his family on the day of Ashura, Allah will extend blessings to him throughout the year" (Hadith).

Muharram is one of the four sacred months during which Allah has forbidden warfare. The term "Muharram" itself means "forbidden." Interestingly, it was in this month that Allah forbade Paradise for Iblis (Shaitan). Muharram abounds with inspiring stories that profoundly impact the life of believers. May Allah bless the beginning of the Hijra year, illuminating our future with hopeful visions.

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