Ashura Starts

Ashura History

Ashura is a significant religious observance for the Muslim community, particularly amongst the Shia Muslims, as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. Iman Hussein was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The day is marked by a series of rituals, which include mourning processions, self-flagellation, and passionate recitals of the tragic events that led to Imam Hussein's demise. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura also holds importance as it marks the day when Prophet Moses and his followers were saved from the Pharaoh by Allah, leading to the Pharaoh's drowning.

The observance of Ashura is not limited to Muslim-majority countries and extends to nations with considerable Muslim populations, such as the United Kingdom. Its history can be traced back to the early Muslim settlers who arrived in the UK centuries ago. In recent times, Ashura has gained increasing significance in the UK, as the Muslim population, including both Shia and Sunni communities, has grown considerably. The day serves as an opportunity for the British Muslim community to reflect on the values of social justice, perseverance, and piety exemplified by Imam Hussein and remember the significance of the day from the Islamic historical perspective.

In the United Kingdom, Ashura is observed through remembrance gatherings, where sermons are held to recount the events of Karbala and highlight its significance. Prayers and fasts are also conducted as a form of tribute and reverence. Processions take place in various cities, showcasing the interfaith solidarity as non-Muslims also take part in the commemoration. It is worth mentioning that Ashura falls on the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, so its date varies each year in the Gregorian calendar. Ashura begins on July 28th.

Ashura Starts facts

• It is common for Sahih Muslim to fast on the 10th of Muharram (first month of the Islamic calendar). According to Sahih Muslim writings of Abu Qatada (a companion of the prophet Muhammad), this fast atones for the sins of the preceding year.
• Shi'a Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Husayn (also spelled Hussein) Ibn Ali on Ashura. He was killed in the Battle of Karbala in the year 680 AD. Husayn was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad as well as the third Shia Imam.
• The UK is home to a growing population of Shia Muslims, with an estimated 400,000 to 500,000 living in the country.
• Some Shia Muslims in the UK participate in a traditional practice called 'Tatbir' or self-flagellation, which typically involves striking oneself with a sword or chain to express grief for Imam Hussain's suffering.

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Top things to do in the UK for Ashura

• To commemorate the martyrdom of Husayn Ibn Ali Husayn, Shi'a Muslims often re-enact plays of the epic battle of Karbala.
• Many Shi'a Muslims go on a pilgrimage to Karbala (Iraq) where they pay homage to Muhammad's family on the day of Ashura.
• Many mosques and Islamic centers in the UK provide free meals or distribute food to the poor and needy during the month of Muharram in remembrance of Imam Husayn's sacrifice.
• Participating in processions, also known as juloos, is a popular way to commemorate Ashura. People walk together, reciting mourning poetry and chants in remembrance of Imam Hussein and his followers. Notable processions take place in London, Birmingham, and Manchester.