Islamic Months

Muharram‐ul Haram

1st ï¿½ Start of new Islamic year
2nd ï¿½ Arrival of Imam Hussain(a.s.) in Karbala ï¿½ (61 A.H.)
7th ï¿½ Access to water was blocked from the camp of Imam Hussain(a.s.) ï¿½ the 3rd Holy Imam ‐ (61 A.H.)
10th ï¿½ Ashoora ‐ Martyrdom of Imam Hussain(a.s.) and his companions ‐ (61 A.H.)
11th ï¿½ Prophet Mohammad(sawaw)ï¿½s family was shackled and taken away as prisoners
12th ï¿½ Soyem of the martyrs of Karbala
16th ï¿½ Change of direction of qibla from Bait‐al‐maqdas to Kaaba ‐ (2 A.H.)
17th ï¿½ Attack of Abrahaï¿½s army on Khana‐e‐Kaaba (1 Aamul Feel)
25th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Ali Zain‐al‐Abideen(a.s.) ï¿½ the 4th Holy Imam ‐ (95 A.H.)

Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar year and is one of the most significant months for Shia Muslims, primarily because of the events of Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain(a.s.) at Karbala. The tragedy of Karbala serves as a powerful symbol of resistance against tyranny and injustice. Observances during this month include mourning rituals, gatherings (majalis), and acts of charity to honor the sacrifices made by Imam Hussain(a.s.) and his companions. The events symbolically emphasize the enduring commitment to justice and truth.

Safar‐ul‐Muzaffar

1st ï¿½ Battle of Siffin ï¿½ (36‐37 A.H.)
3rd ï¿½ Birth of Imam Mohammad Baqir(a.s.) ï¿½ the 5th Holy Imam ï¿½ (57 A.H.) [Disputed date]
6th, 8th or 13th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Hazrat Sakina bint‐al‐Hussain(a.s.) ï¿½ (61 A.H.)
7th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Moosa al‐Kazim(a.s.) ï¿½ the 7th Holy Imam ‐ (128 A.H.)
7th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Hasan(a.s.) ï¿½ the 2nd Holy Imam ‐ (50 A.H.) [Disputed date]
17th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn‐e‐Moosa ar‐Riza(a.s.) ï¿½ the 8th Holy Imam ‐ (203 A.H.)
19th ï¿½ Abraha attacked Khana‐e‐Kaaba ï¿½ (1 Aamul Feel)
20th ï¿½ Arbaeen of martyrs of Karbala
28th ï¿½ Wisal of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw) ï¿½ (11 A.H.)
28th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Hasan(a.s.) ï¿½ the 2nd Holy Imam ‐ (50 A.H.)
29th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn‐e‐Moosa ar‐Riza(a.s.) ï¿½ the 8th Holy Imam ‐ (203 A.H.) [Disputed date]

Safar is recognized as the month that follows Muharram and is noted for its somber remembrance of the aftermath of the Battle of Karbala. The first few days are particularly marked by remembrance of the hardships faced by Imam Hussain(a.s.)’s family during their imprisonment. Key events include the battles that took place during this time and the martyrdom of several prominent figures. While the month is less prominently mourned than Muharram, its recollection serves to deepen the understanding of sacrifice and the consequences of political strife.

Rabi‐al‐Awwal

1st ï¿½ Hijrat‐e‐Madina ï¿½ Start of Islamic Hijri calendar
4th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Fatima Masooma‐e‐Qum(a.s.) ï¿½ (201 A.H.) [Disputed date]
8th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Hasan Askari(a.s.) ï¿½ the 11th Holy Imam ‐ (260 A.H.)
8th ï¿½ Beginning of Ghaibat‐e‐Sughra of Imam Mohammad Mehdi(atfs) ‐ the 12th Holy Imam(a.s.)
9th ï¿½ Eid‐e‐Zahra(s.a.)
10th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Abdul Mutallib(a.s.) ï¿½ grand father of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw)
10th ï¿½ Marriage of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw) and Hazrat Khadija(s.a.)
15th ï¿½ Building of Masjid‐e‐Quba ‐ the first Masjid in Islam ï¿½ (1 A.H.)
17th ï¿½ Birth of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw) ï¿½ (53 years before Hijra)
17th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Jafer Sadiq(a.s.) ï¿½ the 6th Holy Imam ‐ (82 A.H.)
25th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Abu Talib(a.s.)

Rabi-al-Awwal, which includes the significant events of the birth of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw) and the Hijrah (migration to Madina), is celebrated with joy (Mawlid). This month represents the foundation of Islam and the prophetic message of peace and guidance that entails the principles of justice, compassion, and community. Spiritual gatherings, recitations of the Prophet's life, and celebrations bring communities together to rejoice in the teachings and contributions of the Prophet(sawaw) to the world.

Rabi‐us‐Sani

8th or 10th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Hasan Askari(a.s.) ï¿½ the 11th Holy Imam ‐ (232 A.H.)
10th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Fatima Masooma‐e‐Qum(a.s.) ï¿½ (201 A.H.) [Disputed date]

The month of Rabi-us-Sani, while generally quiet compared to Rabi-al-Awwal, is marked by the remembrance of various notable individuals. It is a time for reflection on the lives of the Imams and their teachings. The emphasis on the virtues of patience and perseverance embodies the profound resilience that is celebrated throughout the Shiite faith.

Jamadi‐al‐Awwal

5th ï¿½ Birth of Hazrat Zainab bint‐e‐Ali(a.s.) ï¿½ (5 A.H.)
13th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Fatima Zahra(s.a.) ï¿½ (11 A.H.)
15th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Ali Zain‐al‐Abideen(a.s.) ï¿½ the 4th Holy Imam ‐ (38 A.H.) [Disputed date]
17th ï¿½ Battle of Jamal ï¿½ (36 A.H.)

Jamadi-al-Awwal is significant due to its observance of the martyrdom of Hazrat Fatima Zahra(s.a.), the daughter of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw). This month serves as a time of mourning and remembrance for her sacrifices. The profound respect for her strength, her contributions to Islam, and her role within the family of the Prophet(sawaw) inspire reflection on the values of piety and faithfulness.

Jamadi‐al‐Thani

10th ï¿½ Battle of Mauta and martyrdom of Hazra Jafer Tayyar(a.s.) ï¿½ (3 A.H.)
13th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Umm‐ul‐Baneen ï¿½ Mother of Hazrat Abbas(a.s.)
20th ï¿½ Birth of Hazrat Fatima Zahra(s.a.)

In Jamadi-us-Sani, Shia Muslims commemorate various key events, including the martyrdom of prominent figures in early Islamic history. This month invites a contemplative observance of the sacrifices that shaped the foundation of Islamic principles and the continued fight against oppression.

Rajab‐ul‐Murrajjab

1st ï¿½ Birth of Imam Mohammad Baqir(a.s.) ï¿½ the 5th Holy Imam ‐ (57 A.H.)
2nd or 5th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Ali Naqi al‐Hadi(a.s.) ï¿½ the 10th Holy Imam ‐ (214 A.H.)
3rd ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Ali Naqi al‐Hadi(a.s.) ï¿½ the 10th Holy Imam ‐ (254 A.H.)
10th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Mohammad Taqi al‐Jawwad(a.s.) ï¿½ the 9th Holy Imam ‐ (195 A.H.)
12th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Abbas ibn‐e‐Abdul Muttalib(a.s.) ï¿½ uncle of Prophet Mohammad(sawaw)
13th ï¿½ Birth of Imam Ali(a.s.) ï¿½ the 1st Holy Imam ‐ (30 Aamul Feel)
13th, 14th, 15th ï¿½ Ayyam‐e‐Bayd ï¿½ the bright days
15th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Zainab bin‐e‐Ali(a.s.) ï¿½ (62 A.H.)
20th ï¿½ Birth of Hazrat Sakina bint‐al‐Hussain(a.s.) ï¿½ (57 A.H.)
24th ï¿½ Battle of Khaibar ï¿½ (7 A.H.)
25th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Imam Moosa‐e‐Kazim(a.s.) ï¿½ the 7th Holy Imam ‐ (183 A.H.)
26th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Abu Talib(a.s.) [Disputed date]
27th ï¿½ Event of Mairaj ï¿½ Ascension of Prophet Muhammad(sawaw) towards heavens
28th ï¿½ Start of journey of Imam Hussain(a.s.) towards Karbala ï¿½ (60 A.H.)
29th ï¿½ Battle of Tabooq ï¿½ (9 A.H.)

Rajab is a month honored for its spiritual significance, notably marked by the event of Isra and Mi'raj, the Prophet Muhammad’s(sawaw) night journey and ascension to the heavens. This miraculous event signifies a profound connection between the divine and the earthly, encouraging devout Muslims to enhance their spiritual practices through prayer and reflection during this month.

Shabaan‐ul‐Moazzam

1st ‐ Birth of Hazrat Zainab bint‐e‐Ali(a.s.) ‐ (5 A.H.)
3rd ‐ Birth of Imam Hussain(a.s.) ‐ the 3rd Holy Imam ‐ (4 A.H.)
4th ‐ Birth of Hazrat Abbas(a.s.) ‐ (26 A.H.)
5th ‐ Birth of Imam Ali Zain‐al‐Abideen(a.s.) ‐ the 4th Holy Imam ‐ (38 A.H.)
7th ‐ Birth of Hazrat Qasim ibn‐e‐Hasan(a.s.) ‐ (48 A.H.)
8th ‐ Beginning of Ghaibat‐e‐Sughra of Imam Mohammad Mehdi(atfs) ï¿½ the 12th Holy Imam ‐ (260 A.H.)
11th ‐ Birth of Hazrat Ali Akbar(a.s.) ‐ (44 A.H.)
13th, 14th, 15th ‐ Ayyam‐e‐Bayd ‐ the bright days
14th ‐ Evening ‐ Aamal of Neema‐e‐Shabaan
15th ‐ Birth of Imam Mohammad Mehdi(atfs) ‐ the 12th Holy Imam ‐ (255 A.H.)
27th, 28th, 29th ‐ Fasting 3 days prior to Ramzan‐ul‐Mubarak

Shabaan holds great importance primarily for being the month preceding Ramadan, focusing on the birth of critical figures in Islam, such as Imam Hussain(a.s.) and Imam Mohammad Mehdi(atfs). Celebrations during Shabaan reflect gratitude for these blessings and prepare the faithful for the forthcoming holy month of Ramadan through increased devotion and acts of service.

Ramzan‐ul‐Mubarak

7th ï¿½ Death of Hazrat Abu Talib(a.s.) [Disputed date]
10th ‐ Death of Hazrat Khadija(a.s.) ‐ wife of Prophet Mohammad(sawaw)
11th ï¿½ Moakhat ‐ Brotherhood among Ansar and Muhajireen ‐ (1 A.H.)
13th, 14th, 15th ‐ Ayyam‐e‐Bayd ‐ the bright day
15th ‐ Birth of Imam Hasan(a.s.) ‐ the 2nd Holy Imam ‐ (2 A.H.)
17th ‐ Battle of Badr ‐ (2 A.H.)
19th Evening ‐ Probable night of Shab‐e‐Qadr ‐ the night of power
19th ‐ Imam Ali(a.s.) injured by an attack by a munfiq ‐ (40 A.H.)
20th ‐ Conquest of Makkah ‐ (8 A.H.)
21st Evening ‐ Probable night of Shab‐e‐Qadr ‐ the night of Power
21st ‐ Martyrdom of Imam Ali(a.s.) ‐ the 1st Holy Imam ‐ (40 A.H.)
23rd Evening ‐ Most probable night of Shab‐e‐Qadr ‐ the night of Power
26th ï¿½ Jumatul Wida ï¿½ Last Friday of Ramzan
27th ‐ Another probable night of Shab‐e‐Qadr ‐ the night of Power

Ramadan is revered as the holiest month in Islam, primarily observed through fasting, prayers, and community service. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran and is a time for spiritual purification and reflection. Shia Muslims engage in special prayers, including nightly prayers that enhance their spiritual connection and increase their acts of charity, ultimately culminating in Eid-ul-Fitr, a festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan.

Shawwal‐ul‐Mukarram

1st ï¿½ Eid‐ul‐Fitr
4th ‐ Start of Ghaibat‐e‐Kubra of Imam Mohammad Mehdi(atfs) ï¿½ the 12th Holy Imam ‐ (329 A.H.)
5th ‐Arrival of Hazrat Muslim ibn‐e‐Aqeel(a.s.) in Kufa ‐ (60 A.H.)
6th ‐ Battle of Hunnain ‐ (6 A.H.)
8th ï¿½ Demolition of Jannat‐ul‐Baqi
9th ‐ Battle of Khandaq ‐ (5 A.H.)
23rd ‐ Battle of Ohod & Martyrdom of Hazrat Hamza(a.r.) ‐ (3 A.H.)
25th ‐ Martyrdom of Imam Jafer Sadiq(a.s.) ‐ the 6th Holy Imam ‐ (148 A.H.)
30th ‐ Death of Hazrat Ibrahim(a.s.) ‐ son of Prophet Mohammad(sawaw) ‐ (10 A.H.)

Shawwal begins with Eid-ul-Fitr, a day of celebration marking the conclusion of Ramadan. It emphasizes gratitude and community togetherness, fostering an environment of joy after a month of fasting and reflection. This month serves as a bridge for Muslims to continue their commitment to spirituality and good deeds.

ZeeQaad

1st ‐ Birth of Hazrat Fatima Masooma‐e‐Qum(a.s.) ‐ (183 A.H.)
1st ‐ Peace treaty of Hudaibiya ‐ (6 A.H.)
5th ‐Raising of foundation of Kaaba by Prophet Ibrahim(a.s.) and Prophet Ismael(a.s.)
8th ‐ Hajj made obligatory ‐ (8 A.H.)
11th ‐ Birth of Imam Ali ibn‐e‐Moosa ar‐Riza(a.s.) ‐ the 8th Holy Imam ‐ (148 A.H.)
23rd ‐Martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn‐e‐Moosa ar‐Riza(a.s.) ‐ the 8th Holy Imam ‐ (203 A.H.)
25th ‐ Equability of Earth ‐ Dahwul Ardh
29th ‐ Martyrdom of Imam Mohammad Taqi al‐Jawwad(a.s.) ‐ the 9th Holy Imam ‐ (220 A.H.)

ZeeQaad is a month steeped in historical significance as it commemorates events such as the birth of Imam Ali ibn-e-Moosa ar-Riza(a.s.) and the treaty of Hudaibiya. The month encourages Muslims to reflect on the themes of peace, unity, and the importance of maintaining the religious fabric of the community amidst challenges.

ZilHijjah

1st ‐ Marriage of Imam Ali(a.s.) and Hazrat Fatima Zahra(s.a.) ï¿½ (2 years before Hirja)
7th ‐ Martyrdom of Imam Muhammad Baqir(a.s.) ï¿½ the 5th Holy Imam ‐ (114 A.H.)
9th ‐ Day of Arafat: Ziarat-e-Imam Hussain (as) on this Day | Ziarat-e-Jamia for this day
9th ï¿½ Martyrdom of Hazarat Muslim ibn‐e‐Aqeel(a.s.) & Hazrat Hani ibn Urwah(a.s.) ï¿½ (60 A.H.)
10th ï¿½ Eid‐al‐Adha
10th ï¿½ Hajj‐e‐Baitullah
15th ‐ Birth of Imam Ali Naqi al‐Hadi(a.s.) ï¿½ the 10th Holy Imam ‐ (214 A.H.) [Disputed date]
18th ï¿½ Eid‐e‐Ghadeer ï¿½ (10 A.H.)
23rd ‐ Martyrdom of Hazrat Meesam al‐Tammar(a.r.) ï¿½ friend of Imam Ali(a.s.) ï¿½ ( 60 A.H.)
24th ‐ Eid‐e‐Mubahila ‐ (10 A.H.)
24th ‐ Supplication Day and giving of alms with the ring by Imam Ali(a.s.)
25th ï¿½ Imam Ali(a.s.) accepts to become the Caliph of Islam ï¿½ (35 A.H.)

ZilHijjah is monumental for the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. The month culminates in Eid-ul-Adha, celebrating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim(a.s.) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The universal themes of sacrifice, compassion, and community service characterize this month, inviting Shia Muslims to partake in rituals and charity that honor these principles and foster unity among believers.