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The 14th of Muharram, 61 AH Kerbala

The 14th of Muharram, 61 AH (October 14, 680 CE), falls in the immediate aftermath of the Battle of Karbala, which occurred on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura). While the primary tragedy—Imam Husayn ibn Ali’s (a.s.) martyrdom, along with his family and companions—took place on Ashura, the days following, including the 14th, are part of the broader narrative of Karbala’s aftermath, particularly in Shia tradition. Specific events explicitly tied to the 14th of Muharram are not always detailed with precision in historical sources, as the focus tends to remain on Ashura and the subsequent captivity of the Ahl al-Bayt (Prophet…

12th Muharram in Karbala

The 12th of Muharram, 61 AH (October 12, 680 CE), marks a significant but less commonly discussed day in the context of the Battle of Karbala, which occurred two days earlier on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura). While the primary tragedy of Karbala—the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali (a.s.), his family, and companions—culminated on Ashura, the events immediately following, including those on the 12th, are critical to understanding the aftermath and its impact on Islamic history, particularly for Shia Muslims. Below, I provide a detailed account of the events associated with the 12th of Muharram in Karbala, focusing on…

Enduring Tears for Imam Hussain: Why Shias Mourn After Over a Millennium

The continued lamentation for Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, by Shia Muslims over 1,300 years after his martyrdom at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE (61 AH) is a profound religious, cultural, and spiritual practice deeply embedded in Shia Islam, particularly among Twelver Shias. This mourning, especially during the month of Muharram and the day of Ashura (the 10th of Muharram), is not merely a historical commemoration but a multifaceted tradition rooted in theological, historical, socio-political, and emotional dimensions. Below is a detailed analysis of why Shias continue to lament for Imam Hussain, supported by…

“Why Shias Use the Sajdagah: Unraveling the Spiritual and Historical Significance”

The use of a sajdagah (also spelled sajdaga or referred to as turbah or mohr in Persian) by Shia Muslims during prayer is a distinctive practice rooted in religious, historical, and jurisprudential traditions. A sajdagah is a small piece of clay, often made from the soil of Karbala (where Imam Hussain was martyred), used as a surface for prostration (sujud) during Salah (Islamic prayers). This practice is primarily associated with Twelver Shia Muslims and reflects both theological beliefs and practical rulings derived from Islamic sources. Below is a detailed analysis of why Shias use the sajdagah, covering its religious basis,…

Don’t Wish me Happy New Year

Wishing “Happy Islamic New Year” is considered inappropriate by many Muslims, particularly Shia Muslims, due to the tragic events associated with the month of Muharram, during which the Islamic New Year begins. Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, but it is also marked by the Battle of Karbala (680 CE), where Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, along with his family and companions, was martyred. This event is a profound tragedy, especially for Shia Muslims, who observe the first ten days of Muharram, culminating in Ashura, as a period of mourning and reflection. The reasons…

Tribute to Aga Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi

A Tribute to Aga Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi: A Life of Scholarship and Service On April 18, 2025, Jammu and Kashmir lost one of its most revered spiritual and intellectual figures, Aga Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi, also known as Ayatullah Al-Uzma Syed ul Ulama Aga Syed Mohammad Baqir Al-Moosavi Al-Najfi. At the age of 85, his passing marks the end of an era defined by profound scholarship, unwavering piety, and a commitment to fostering harmony within the Shia community and beyond. This tribute explores his life, contributions, and enduring legacy. Early Life and Education Born on March 21,…

Karbala se Shaam (Damascus)

The plight of the captives of Karbala during their forced march to Damascus is a heart-wrenching chapter in Islamic history, particularly within Shia tradition. After the tragic events of the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, where Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and his followers were brutally martyred, the surviving women and children were taken captive by the forces of Yazid ibn Muawiya. Historical Context The Battle of Karbala occurred on the 10th of Muharram in the year 680 CE. Husayn ibn Ali, along with his family and supporters, faced the army of Yazid ibn Muawiya.…

All About Imam Hussain, a.s

Imam Hussain: A Comprehensive Study Introduction Imam Hussain ibn Ali (626-680 CE) is a towering figure in Islamic history, renowned for his steadfast stand against tyranny and his monumental sacrifice at the Battle of Karbala. As the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad and the son of Imam Ali and Fatimah al-Zahra, Imam Hussain’s life and legacy are central to both Shia and Sunni traditions. This comprehensive study delves into the multifaceted aspects of Imam Hussain’s life, including his early years, his role in the Islamic community, the events leading to and including the Battle of Karbala, and his enduring legacy.…

Key Events and Important Dates in Shia Islam

Key Events and Important Dates in Shia Islam Shia Muslims observe several important events and dates that are pivotal to their religious calendar and spiritual life. These events commemorate significant moments in Islamic history, particularly those related to the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of Prophet Muhammad). Below are some of the most important events and dates for Shia Muslims: Muharram and Ashura 1. Muharram Significance: The first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Importance: Marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. For Shia Muslims, Muharram is a period of mourning to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson…

The First Imam, `Ali Ibn Abi Talib, Amir Al-Mu’minin (Peace be on him)

Name: Ali. Title: al-Murtada. Agnomen. Abu. ‘l-Hasan. Father’s name: Abu Talib ibn `Abd al-Muttalib. Mother’s name: Fatimah bint Asad. Birth: In the Holy Ka’bah in Mecca on Friday, 13th Rajab 23 BH. Death: Died at the age of 63, in Kufah (Iraq) on Monday, 21st Ramadan 40 AH; murdered by an assassin who mortally wounded him with a poisoned sword in the mosque of Kufah during the morning prayer on 19th Ramadan; buried in an-Najaf al-Ashraf (Iraq). Imam Ali was the cousin of our Holy Prophet. He was born in the Sacred House (Ka’bah). Providence alone had a hand in…