File image of Muharram procession (Photo Credits: PTI)
Mumbai, July 13: Muslims observe Ashura on 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. The date of Ashura changes every year on the Gregorian calendar. Ashura 2024 will be observed in July this year. According to Islamic scriptures, many significant events including the death of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Islamic Prophet Mohammed (Muhammad) in the Battle of Karbala, happened on the day of Ashura.
In view of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, Ashura is widely observed as a day of mourning and grief. However, Sunni and Shia Muslims mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in contrast ways. From Ashura 2024 date in India and Saudi Arabia to its history and significance, here’s all you need to know about the Islamic observance. Is Muharram Celebrated as Festival? Why Do Muslims Self-Flagellate on Ashura? When Will Muharram Chand Appear? All FAQs Answered.
Ashura 2024 Date
Ashura is observed on 10th day of Muharram. In Saudi Arabia, the month of Muharram commenced from July 7. Therefore, Ashura in Saudi Arabia will fall on July 16. Muharram 2024 began from July 8 in India. Hence, Muslims in India will observe Ashura on July 17.
Ashura History and Significance
Muslims believe it was the day of Ashura or 10th of Muharram when the God split water of the Red Sea leaving a dry path in the middle, enabling Prophet Moses (Musa) and his followers’ escape from the clutches of the Pharaoh and his men. It was this day when Imam Hussain was killed at the Battle of Karbala in the 7th century. Other events such as Noah disembarking from the Ark also took place on the day of Ashura. Therefore, Ashura assumes extra significance for Muslims. Islamic New Year 2024 Kiswah Change Ceremony: Kaaba’s Kiswah Replaced in Mecca on Arrival of Muharram (See Pics and Video).
With the beginning of Muharram, Shia Muslims start mourning the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family members. They take out processions and hold gatherings where different events from the Battle of Karbala are recalled. They also indulge in self-flagellation as a mean of mourning and cut themselves with swords, knives and sharp chains to emulate the suffering of Imam Hussain. The mourning begins on the first day of Muharram and continues for ten nights, climaxing on Ashura.
Sunni Muslims also remember the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and his family members, but refrain from the practice of self-flagellation. A section of Sunni Muslims also take out processions in honour of Imam Hussain and observe prayers and fast.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 13, 2024 11:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
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