Ashura (The Tenth of Muharram)

Ashura (Arabic: عاشوراء) is the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. For Shia Muslims, this is the most important commemoration day of the year — the day when Imam Husayn ibn Ali (peace be upon him), the Prophet's grandson, was martyred along with 72 of his family members and faithful companions in Karbala, Iraq, in the year 61 Hijri (680 CE).

Imam Husayn rose against the Umayyad regime under Caliph Yazid ibn Muawiyah, who demanded bayah (allegiance) from Imam Husayn to legitimize his tyrannical rule. Imam Husayn refused and said: "Someone like me does not give bayah to someone like him." On the Day of Ashura, Imam Husayn and his small group faced an army of thousands and fought to the last man. Imam Husayn's martyrdom is a defining moment in Islamic history and Shia identity.

Commemorative observances for Ashura include: majalis (memorial gatherings) with sermons about the events of Karbala, recitation of marsiyah (elegies), latmiyyat (mourning songs), processions (mawakib), and in some traditions matam (chest-beating as an expression of grief). Special prayers for Ashura include Ziyarat Ashura and Du'a Alqamah.

Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) said: "Every day is Ashura, and every land is Karbala" — a statement that underscores that Imam Husayn's message of standing up against injustice is timeless and universal. For Shia Muslims, the Ashura period (the first ten days of Muharram) is a time for deep reflection, community, and renewal of commitment to justice. Husayniyyahs and mosques hold daily programs during this period.