Prophets and Muharram: Stories of Redemption and Mercy
Muharram is more than the first month of the Islamic calendar; it is a sacred time that echoes the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us. For Muslims around the world, it is a month of reflection, mercy, and remembrance. And at its heart are the powerful stories of the Prophets, men who faced trials with unshakable faith and whose legacies guide us even today.
Prophet Musa (AS) and Fasting on Ashura
On the 10th of Muharram (Ashura), the Prophet ﷺ observed fasting in gratitude because Allah (swt) saved Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh.
Narrated Ibn `Abbas:
When the Prophet (ﷺ) came to Medina, he found (the Jews) fasting on the day of 'Ashura' (i.e. 10th of Muharram). They used to say: "This is a great day on which Allah saved Moses and drowned the folk of Pharaoh. Moses observed the fast on this day as a sign of gratitude to Allah." The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I am closer to Moses than they." So, he observed the fast (on that day) and ordered the Muslims to fast on it.
(Bukhari)
More Than One Story: Prophets of Resilience
Muharram also reminds us of other prophetic stories of patience and redemption. According to some scholars, Ashura is connected to multiple events where Allah's mercy was shown:
- Prophet Nuh (AS) saw his Ark rest safely after the flood.
- Prophet Yunus (AS) was freed from the belly of the whale after sincere repentance.
- Prophet Adam (AS) was forgiven after his fall.
These aren't just stories. They are reminders that divine forgiveness is always near, even after great mistakes or overwhelming hardship. Each story carries a thread of hope: no one is ever too far from mercy.
As believers, we don't just recount these stories; we live by them.
In a world filled with crises, these legacies offer a framework for how we respond with faith, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serve those in need.
What These Stories Teach Us Today
It's easy to feel helpless when facing personal hardship or witnessing global suffering. But the lessons from Prophet Musa and others are clear: patience, prayer, and trust in Allah can lead to salvation in this life and the next.
We are not alone in our trials. Just as the Prophets called on Allah (swt), we too are invited to turn toward Him, especially in the sacred days of Muharram. The stories of the Prophets are not locked in the past; they continue to unfold in the choices we make today.
And that includes the choice to give.
Give in Honor of Their Legacy
As we fast, reflect and remember, we can also give in ways that carry forward the Prophets' values. The people Prophet Musa led suffered from a lack of water, a hardship many still face today. By giving clean water in his name, we continue his legacy of delivering people from need.
- Donate to a Water Well in honor of Prophet Musa's story.
- Give Sadaqah to support families who, like Prophet Yunus, are crying out for relief.
- Support Orphans, children who need the protection and care once shown by the Prophets themselves.
The Prophet ﷺ said,
"The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others."
(al-Mu'jam al-Awsat)
Let us be among those beloved ones not just in word but in action.
Why Muharram Is a Time for Action
The importance of Muharram in Islam is not just symbolic. It is one of the four sacred months in which good deeds are multiplied. Giving Sadaqah during this time carries even more reward both in this world and the Hereafter.
So while we remember the prophetic stories of Muharram, we should also act on their message. From Prophet Musa's trust in the face of fear, to Yunus's plea from the depths, every story invites us to deepen our connection to Allah and to others.
Don't let this sacred month pass by with only reflection. Let it move you toward action, healing, and service.
Final Reflection
Prophets didn't just live in the distant past. Their courage, trials, and devotion are timeless.
As we step through the days of Muharram, we are reminded that the path of mercy is still open. We can choose to walk it through faith, through patience, and through giving.
Let your Sadaqah be a reflection of their mercy. Let your charity honor their courage. Let this Muharram carry meaning that lasts.
