Mourning in Muharram

Mourning in the month of Muharram (the first month of the Islamic calendar – Hijri) is especially important for Muslims, and especially for Shiites. It is associated with the Battle of Karbala, which took place on the 10th of Muharram – the day known as Ashura.

In 680 (61 AH) in Karbala (modern Iraq) the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad – Imam Hussein ibn Ali, along with members of his family and companions, were killed. They rebelled against the tyranny of the Caliph Yazid ibn Muawiya, and their death became a symbol of the struggle for justice, truth and dignity.
Sunnis also recognize the tragedy of Karbala, but mourning is not expressed so vividly. For Shiites, Muharram is a time of sorrow and strengthening of faith. It reminds of sacrifice in the name of principles. Ashura is an important day for all Muslims, but the approach to it varies according to tradition.