Summary
Highlights
The 10th of Muharram is historically significant as the day Musa (Moses) was saved from Pharaoh and Nuh's (Noah's) ark landed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged fasting on this day, differentiating the Muslim practice from Jewish fasting by recommending fasting on the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th, to make the ritual distinct.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) frequently fasted in Muharram, showing particular concern for fasting on the Day of Ashura (the 10th of Muharram). Fasting on Ashura was initially obligatory in the first year after the Hijrah before Ramadan became mandatory, and then became highly recommended. Fasting on Ashura is believed to atone for the minor sins of the previous year.
Muharram marks the beginning of the new Islamic calendar. The Prophet (peace be upon him) designated it as 'Shahrullaahil Muharram' (the month of Allah al-Muharram), granting it a unique and highest honor not given to any other month. It is one of the four sacred months, with many companions considering it the most sacred among them, distinct from Ramadan which is sacred but not one of the four haram months.
When Umar ibn Khattab established the Islamic calendar, Muharram was chosen as the first month. This decision was based on its blessings and its placement immediately after Hajj, signifying a new beginning. Therefore, Muharram has consistently been the first month of the year since then.
While the massacre of Hussein (may Allah be pleased with him) occurred on the 10th of Muharram, this tragedy doesn't define the sanctity of the day. Ashura's blessedness and the practice of fasting precede this event. Muslims observe the 10th of Muharram as a day of worship and devotion to Allah, not as a day of mourning, emphasizing acts of worship and fostering consciousness of Allah.