According to the Hijri calendar, the month of Muharram is the first month of the Islamic year and is considered one of the four sacred months, during which fighting and warfare are forbidden. This year, the new moon of Muharram was sighted on the evening of June 26, 2025, in India and several other countries, marking the beginning of the 1447 Hijri Islamic New Year.
While people in many parts of the world celebrate this as a 'new year', with fireworks and feasts, according to Islamic teachings, the significance of Muharram is much deeper and more serious. The month of Muharram is not just the Islamic New Year; it is also a month that commemorates the great martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his family in Karbala.
This is why this month is considered a symbol of mourning, patience, sacrifice, and devotion to God. For this reason, Muslims generally do not say 'Happy New Year' or 'Muharram Mubarak' during this month, as it is a time for worship, goodwill, and humanitarian assistance rather than celebration or revelry.
Why don't people say 'Happy Muharram'?
People often wonder why they shouldn't wish each other a Happy New Year when a new year is beginning. The truth is, the month of Muharram is considered deeply sorrowful and sensitive due to the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his companions. Their sacrifice in Karbala, made to uphold justice, humanity, and religion, has become an example for the entire world. Therefore, Muslims associate this month with grief and worship, rather than joy and celebration.
Although some people may greet each other with New Year wishes on the first day, the atmosphere becomes even more mournful as the month progresses and the 10th day, or Yom Ashura, approaches. Therefore, it is customary to refrain from giving congratulations later in the month.
How should you approach the Islamic New Year?
On the occasion of Muharram and the Islamic New Year, it is important that people do not celebrate it with dancing, fireworks, show-off or unnecessary spending. Extravagance and ostentation are forbidden in Islam. Instead, people should dedicate their time to worship, reciting the Quran, visiting mosques, and praying to Allah that the new year brings them goodness, blessings, and peace.
In addition, one should fulfill their duty to humanity by helping the poor, the needy, orphans, widows, and the sick. Allah loves those who help others and try to alleviate their suffering.
Do these righteous deeds, and you will be rewarded
- Give charity to the poor in secret: Help the needy without any show.
- Support orphans: Contribute to their education, clothing, or food.
- Respect the elderly: Serve them and receive their blessings.
- Care for the sick: Visit them in the hospital or arrange for their medicine.
- Live together: Strengthen brotherhood in the family and society.
- Worship Allah: Read the Quran, pray, and ask Allah for forgiveness for sins.
These righteous deeds will not only give you peace of mind, but the mercy of Allah will also be with you throughout the year.
Also teach children the right way
Nowadays, the influence of Western culture on the New Year is also increasing among children. Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents to explain the true significance of Muharram and the Islamic New Year to their children. Tell them the story of the martyrs of Karbala and explain that this month is not about celebration, but about the message of humanity and patience. The beginning of Muharram marks the new dawn of the Islamic year, during which one should seek forgiveness from Allah for their sins, make good intentions, and resolve to abandon evils.
This month reminds us that one can fight for religion and justice at any cost, but human values cannot be compromised. Today, when the atmosphere of violence and hatred is increasing around the world, the message of Muharram tells us that the greatest bravery lies in humanity, patience, and sacrifice. This is why Muslims begin their year with peace, worship, humanity, and good deeds in the Islamic New Year and pray that the coming year proves to be a year of safety and peace for everyone.
If you too begin the New Year with this mindset in this Muharram, you will not only find peace, but Allah's blessings and mercy will also descend upon your life.
