All About Muharram 2025

Muharram is the name given to the first month in the Islamic calendar. Therefore, it begins with the Islamic New Year. The term ‘Muharram’ derives from the root word ‘haram’, meaning ‘sacred’ or ‘forbidden’. The Al Masjid Al Haram – the Sacred Mosque – in Mecca also derives its name from this Arabic word. Muharram takes its name because in Islamic law fighting in this sacred month is forbidden. This ensures Muslims can perform the Hajj (the pilgrimage to Mecca) in safety. As it is a sacred month, Muslims observe Muharram by fasting, praising and worshipping Allah (SWT). This is also a period where Muslims pay particular attention to performing good deeds and refraining from sins.

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When is Muharram 2025?

This year, the month of Muharram starts on the evening of Friday, 27 June 2025, in the UK and around the world. Muharram 2025 is particularly significant as it marks the beginning of a new Islamic year. Muslims globally will be observing various rituals and practices during this sacred month.

What Happened on the 10th of Muharram?

Muslims consider the tenth day of Muharram to be the holiest and most significant day of this special month. This date is also known as the Day of Ashura. Many important events are known to have taken place on this day during Islamic history. But two in particular are what Muslims reflect on the 10th day of Muharram.

For Sunni Muslims, the 10th day of Muharram is the anniversary of the Martydom of Hussain Ibn Ali (RA). Hussain and his followers refused to pledge allegiance to the caliph, Yazid. They believed that Yazid was a tyrannical and immoral ruler, and that inheriting his rule was against Islamic principles. Hussain and his followers were killed by Yazid’s forces on the 10th day of Muharram at the Battle of Karbala. Sunni Muslims treat this day as a sombre and sad event, remembering the bravery of Hussain (RA) as he fought and died for his beliefs.

Shia Muslims see the 10th day of Muharram as a day of celebration, because for them it centres around a different event. They mark the time that the Prophet Musa (AS – also known as Moses) led the Israelites to freedom from Egypt. Chased by the forces of the Pharoah, Allah (SWT) enabled Moses to part the Red Sea, allowing them to escape. The waters then closed in and drowned the Pharoah and his soldiers. It’s a story of devotion, trust and obedience to God that resonates with Muslims to this day.

Both traditions of the Day of Ashura are rooted in stories of faith in the face of enormous challenges.

Fasting in Muharram

Although fasting in Muharram is not obligatory, it is highly recommended to do so. It’s encouraged by the hadith: “The best fasting after Ramadan is the fasting of Muharram” (Muslim). Certain dates in Muharram hold special significance to Muslims. Fasting on these days is particularly recommended. The most special of these days is the 10th day of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, which means ‘the tenth’.

Although the 10th day of Muharram is the most significant, it is recommended that Muslims also fast on the day before or after. This is because when the Prophet (PBUH) first came to Medina, he found that Jews also fasted on this day to mark their relationship with Moses (Musa in Islam). Muhammad (PBUH) decreed to his followers that they had a closer relationship with Musa. So they would fast for an extra day during Muharram.

The 10th of Muharram 2025, which falls on 6 July 2025, is a day when many Muslims will be fasting. They emulate the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and gain the spiritual benefits associated with this holy day.

Recommended Practices During Muharram

It is recommended that you make dua and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) during Muharram. There are specific duas that many Muslims recite during this time, which can be said at certain times throughout the month. By learning more about Muharram, reciting these duas, and increasing worship, Muslims can make the most of this sacred month.

There are many virtues in the month of Muharram. Good deeds and actions performed during this time are held to carry more reward. So Muslims are encouraged to increase acts of charity, praise of Allah (SWT), and reciting of the Quran to draw closer to Him. However, sins committed in this month are also considered more severe. So Muharram is a time to pay particular attention, and dedicate intense reflection, to deeds, words and thoughts.

Making the Most out of Muharram

Muharram 2025 is a sacred and significant month for Muslims worldwide, beginning on 27 June. Muharram 2025 is especially important, marked by fasting and reflection. Muharram is a time for spiritual growth. It is a month of increased worship and for seeking forgiveness. Participating in the spirit of Muharram and its observances can help Muslims strengthen their faith and draw closer to Allah (SWT).

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can ensure that you make the most of Muharram 2025. Embracing its virtues to enhance your spiritual journey and deepen your relationship with Allah (SWT). You can embody these values by increasing your charitable giving. Orphans in Need accepts these donations to distribute them among those who need it most. You will not only be directly benefiting some of the most vulnerable people in the world. You’ll also be accruing spiritual benefits in the eyes of Allah (SWT) for the afterlife.

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