Nurturing Faith and Family During Muharram and the Summer Holidays

By Shaykh Abdul Qayum | 12 July 2024

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

As Muharram coincides with the summer holidays this year, I feel it‘s a great opportunity to share some thoughts on how we can make the most of this sacred time and the extended break from our usual routines. Muharram holds a special place in the Islamic calendar; it’s one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an, and its name, ‘Muharram’, comes from the root word ‘haraam’, meaning forbidden or sacred. This highlights the sanctity of this month and its importance in our spiritual lives.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ highlighted the virtue of fasting during this month:

The best fasting after Ramadan is in the month of Allah, Muharram.

[Sahih Muslim]

Referring to Muharram as ‘the month of Allah’ is a unique distinction that underscores its special status. While all months belong to Allah, this specific attribution to Muharram shows its significance and the blessings associated with it.

The 10th day of Muharram, known as ‘Ashura, is particularly significant. When the Prophet ﷺ migrated to Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on this day. Upon inquiring, he was told that it was the day Allah saved Prophet Musa and his people from Pharaoh. Recognising the importance of this event, the Prophet ﷺ said, “We have more right to Musa than you,” and encouraged Muslims to fast on this day as well.

The reward for fasting on Ashura is immense. The Prophet ﷺ said, “It expiates the sins of the past year.” He ﷺ also expressed his intention to fast also on the 9th of Muharram in the following year, to differentiate the Islamic practice from that of the Jewish community. Although he did not live to see the next Muharram, many scholars recommend fasting on both the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.

This year, ‘Ashura falls on a Tuesday, with Tasua (the 9th) on Monday. I strongly encourage those who are able to fast on both days. If that’s not possible, then at least fast on ‘Ashura. Monday, being one of the recommended days for voluntary fasting, provides an additional opportunity for those who choose to fast on Tasua (a day of remembrance and mourning). However, our focus should not be limited to these specific days. The entire month of Muharram is a time of increased blessings, and we should strive to increase our worship throughout. Whether it’s through additional fasting, increased charity, or more frequent dhikr and Qur’an recitation, let us make the most of this time.

Now, let’s turn our attention to another important matter – the summer holidays. As our children take a break from their academic pursuits, we are presented with a unique opportunity to invest in their spiritual and moral development. Ibn al-Jawzi (d. 597 AH) said, “I have seen people who were more protective of their time than they were of their wealth.” This statement should serve as a reminder for us to value our time, especially when it comes to nurturing our children.

The Prophet ﷺ said, “Every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.” As parents, we are entrusted with the care and guidance of our children. The summer holidays give us more time to fulfil this responsibility. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Rest and relaxation are also important, as even our beloved Prophet ﷺ encouraged moderation in worship and took time for rest. The key is to structure our time wisely, including both productive activities and relaxation.

I urge parents to use this time to strengthen the bond with their children. Engage in meaningful conversations, participate in enjoyable activities together, and create lasting memories. At the same time, incorporate Islamic teachings into your daily routines. This could involve reading Qur’an together, discussing Islamic history, or performing acts of charity as a family.

For our youth, remember the words of Allah in the Qur’an: 

O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones.

[Surah At-Tahrim, 66:6]

Your time is precious, and how you spend it will shape your future. Use this break to enhance your knowledge, develop new skills, and strengthen your connection with Allah.

In our digital age, it’s easy for young people to become engrossed in their devices, potentially exposing themselves to harmful content or influences. Parents must be vigilant and guide their children towards beneficial online activities. Remember the hadith: “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you will be questioned about your flock.” Let us also be mindful of the company our children keep. The Prophet ﷺ said, “A person is upon the religion of his best friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends.” Encourage your children to form friendships with those who will have a positive influence on their faith and character.

As we go through this month of Muharram and the summer holidays, let’s keep in mind the words of Imam al-Ghazali (d. 505 AH): “Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children.” Our true purpose is to please Allah and prepare for the Hereafter.

I pray that Allah allows us to make the most of this month of Muharram and to use our time wisely during these summer holidays. May He guide us to be exemplary shepherds for our families and grant us the wisdom to nurture the next generation of Muslims.

Ameen.

Help us complete our Phase 3 expansion for the new prayer halls!

Please select a donation amount (required)
Set up a regular payment Donate

Manage Cookie Preferences