Muharram: A Sacred Month

Introduction

The word ‘Muharram’ literally means ‘forbidden.’ This month is so sacred that certain actions are prohibited to maintain sanctity. One of the most significant Muslim months in the calendar of Islam is Muharram, which marks the beginning of a new Islamic year. As the first month of the Hijri calendar, it holds immense importance for Muslims around the world. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called this month “the Sacred Month of Allah.”

Muharram, as the 1st month of the Islamic calendar, is a time for reflection, worship, and drawing closer to Allah. It is part of the sacred Islamic months mentioned in the Quran, which are significant in the calendar of Islam for their spiritual value. Observing Muharram reminds Muslims of the historical events that shaped the faith, particularly the sacrifices made for Islam. For this reason, Muharram is also called Muharram-ul-Haram, emphasizing its sanctity.

Makkah2Madinah: Your Trusted Umrah Taxi Service

Makkah2Madinah (M2M) is a UK-registered travel agency specializing in reliable and comfortable Umrah taxi services for pilgrims from the UK and Pakistan. With over 15 years of experience, we offer a fleet of modern vehicles and professional drivers to ensure a smooth and safe journey to Makkah, Madinah, and other important Islamic sites.

Our services are designed with your comfort and safety in mind. We offer affordable rates, 24/7 availability, and an easy online booking process, making it simpler than ever to secure your Umrah taxi.

To book your Umrah taxi, simply visit our Book Your Umrah Taxi page, select the vehicle that best suits your needs, and provide your travel details. Once your booking is confirmed, you can complete your payment securely online. For more information on the booking process, visit our How to Book Your Umrah Taxi page.

One of the Sacred Month in the Islamic Calendar

One of the four holy months known as “Asyhurul Hurum” is Muharram-ul-Haram, which is part of the Muslim months regarded as sacred in the calendar of Islam. As the first month of the Hijri calendar, Muharram marks the start of the Islamic month cycle and the beginning of the Islamic lunar year. Being the 1st month of the Islamic calendar, it holds a special place in Islamic tradition and history, symbolizing renewal and sanctity.

The Quran and Hadith, respectively, both discuss the significance of Muharram month:

Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred.” 

(Al-Tawbah 9:36)

“The year is twelve months, four of which are sacred. Three are in succession: Dhul-Qa’da, Dhul-Hijjah and Al-Muharram, and Rajab Mudar, which stands between Jumad and Sha’ban.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari 4662)

Important Events in Muharram

Two of the most significant events that have taken place during the month of Muharram are as follows: 

• The Day of Ashura
• Battle of Karbala

Allah says about the sacred months:

Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve—in Allah’s Record since the day He created the heavens and the earth—of which four are sacred. That is the Right Way. So do not wrong one another during these months. And together fight the polytheists as they fight against you together. And know that Allah is with those mindful ˹of Him˺. (At-Tawbah 9:36)

The Virtues of Muharram 

Muslims are inspired to deepen their spiritual commitment throughout this holy month by performing the following acts of prayer.

Reciting the Quran

Muharram inspires Muslims to strengthen their bond with the Quran through increased recitation. The peaceful ambiance of this month amplifies the spiritual rewards of contemplating and understanding Allah’s guidance.

Fasting

In addition to being required, Muharram fasting is very important. According to the prophet Muhammad (PBUH), 

“The best way of fasting after the month of Ramadan is fasting in Allah’s month of Muharram.” (Sahih al-Muslim)

A Sunnah practice that yields great benefits is fasting on the ninth and tenth of Muharram (Ashura). It serves as a way to thank Allah for His rewards and mercy. 

Performing Voluntary Prayers

Performing extra prayers (Nafl) during Muharram is a means of drawing closer to Allah and gaining extra spiritual rewards. When done with sincerity and devotion, these prayers strengthen faith and deepen one’s relationship with the Creator.

Such practices go beyond fulfilling religious duties; they reflect the true essence of Muharram. They promote spiritual development and cultivate a sense of unity and compassion among Muslims around the world.

Giving Charity (Sadaqah)

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic New Year, is a perfect time to do sadaqah or regular charity. Every charitable deed performed during this month is rewarded more abundantly, whether it be via funding neighborhood initiatives, providing for orphans, or helping people in need.

You can make a charitable donation to Pakistan Sweet Home, a reputable organization that helps vulnerable children and orphans. 

Explore the Spiritual Journey: Makkah and Madinah Ziyarat

For those looking to enhance their spiritual journey during the sacred month of Muharram, visiting the blessed cities of Makkah and Madinah is an incredibly rewarding experience. Muharram is a time of reflection and repentance, and there’s no better way to deepen your connection with Allah than by visiting Makkah, home to the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, and Madinah, where the Prophet’s mosque lies, a place of peace and contemplation. The significance of these cities during Muharram makes the journey even more meaningful, as it provides an opportunity for spiritual growth and reflection on the sacrifices and lessons from Islamic history. To make your pilgrimage more comfortable, consider booking an Umrah taxi for reliable and convenient transportation during your visit.

To learn more about the significance of these blessed cities and plan your pilgrimage, visit our Makkah Ziyarat and Madinah Ziyarat pages for detailed information on how to make the most of your visit, especially during this holy month of Muharram.

Conclusion

Muharram is a sacred month that encourages Muslims to deepen their faith through prayer, reflection, and acts of devotion. It serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual growth, unity, and compassion within the Muslim community. By observing this month, Muslims strengthen their bond with Allah and embrace the essence of piety and devotion.

About Makkah2Madinah

Makkah2Madinah is a UK-registered travel agency proudly serving Muslims from both Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to providing personalized care to every traveler. Whether you are young or old, a first-time pilgrim, or a seasoned traveler, our knowledgeable guides, well-versed in Islamic history, ensure a spiritually uplifting journey from the moment you depart until you return home. 

At Makkah2Madinah, we also offer reliable Umrah taxi services to make your pilgrimage stress-free. Whether you need transportation from Jeddah to Makkah or between the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, our modern fleet and experienced drivers ensure a smooth and punctual ride. With our Pay After Service option, you can experience the quality of our transportation services before making any payment, giving you added peace of mind and convenience. To learn more about our services and explore how we can assist you on your spiritual journey, click here for detailed information. 

Performing Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide

Performing Umrah for the first time is a profound and transformative experience. To ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage, it is crucial to understand each step, from entering the state of Ihram and reciting the Talbiyah, to performing Tawaf, completing Sa’i, and concluding with Tahalul. For an in-depth guide and valuable tips, visit our blog on How to Perform Umrah [Umrah Step-by-Step Guide], where you will find everything you need to know for your spiritual journey.