Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of spiritual reflection and renewal. It marks the beginning of the Hijri New Year and holds significant importance for Muslims worldwide. During this sacred month, many turn to specific prayers or ‘duas’ to seek blessings, forgiveness, and guidance. Here are five powerful duas to recite during Muharram.
Key Takeaways
- Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and a time for spiritual renewal.
- Reciting specific duas during Muharram can bring blessings and protection.
- The Dua of Farewell to the Previous Year helps in seeking forgiveness for past mistakes.
- The Dua of the New Year of Hijri is recited to welcome the new Islamic year.
- Dua of Ziyarat ‘Ashura and Dua of Salatul Tasbih are significant prayers during this month.
Dua of Farewell to Previous Year
On the last day of Dhul Hijjah, which is the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims are encouraged to perform certain practices to bid farewell to the previous year. This is a special time to reflect on the past year and seek forgiveness for any shortcomings.
After the Salatul ‘Asr (afternoon prayer) and before sunset, it is recommended to engage in the following activities:
- Pray Salatul Tawbah, a 2 Rak’at (cycle) prayer, to seek repentance for all actions in the previous year.
- Recite Istighfar (seeking forgiveness) 100 times.
- Recite the Dua of Farewell to the Previous Year three times.
This practice helps in seeking Allah’s forgiveness and protection from the fitna (trials) of shaitan in the coming year.
Dua of the New Year of Hijri
As we welcome the Islamic New Year, it is a time for reflection and renewal. This du’a acknowledges our imperfections and seeks Allah SWT’s forgiveness, enabling us to start the new year with a clean slate. Reciting this du’a helps us seek guidance, protection, and blessings from Allah (SWT) for the coming year.
How to Recite the Dua
- Perform Salatul Maghrib (sunset prayer) on the last day of Dhul Hijjah.
- Pray Salatul Tasbih – 4 rak’at (cycles).
- Recite Surat al Ikhlas (112th chapter of the Holy Quran) 100 times.
- Send Salawat/Durood Sharif 100 times.
- Recite the Du’a of the New Year of Hijri 3 times.
The Dua
اللّهم أَدْخِلْهُ عَلينا بِالأمْنِ وَالإيمان، وَالسَّلامَةِ وَالإسْلام، وِجوارٍ مِّنَ الشَّيْطان، وَرِضْوَانٍ مِّنَ الرَّحْمن
Allahumma adkhilhu ‘alayna bil amni wal iman, was salamati wal islam, wa jiwarim minash shaytan, wa ridwanim minar Rahman.
O Allah, bring this [month or year] upon us with security, iman, safety, Islam, protection from shaytan, and your pleasure.
Reciting this du’a three times is said to appoint two angels to accompany and protect the believer from the fitna of shaytan throughout the year.
Dua for the Day of ‘Ashura
The Dua for the Day of ‘Ashura is a heartfelt prayer that holds deep significance for Muslims, especially during Muharram. This dua, also known as Dua Arafah, is attributed to Imam Hussain (AS) and reflects his unwavering faith and resilience. The exact wording may vary, but the essence remains the same, capturing the spirit of devotion and reflection.
Key Aspects of the Dua
- Devotion and Faith: The dua emphasizes the importance of staying devoted to Allah and maintaining faith even in difficult times.
- Resilience: It highlights the need for resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
- Reflection: The prayer encourages self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one’s faith.
How to Recite the Dua
- Begin by raising your hands and having in mind the enemies of “Aale Muhammad”.
- Recite the dua with sincerity and devotion, focusing on its meaning and significance.
- Reflect on the struggles and sacrifices of Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers.
Muharram is a sacred month for Muslims, with emphasis on fasting, prayers, charity, and self-reflection. Cultural observances may vary, but the key events include the Day of Ashura.
Reciting the Dua for the Day of ‘Ashura strengthens communal bonds and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and truth in the face of adversity.
Dua of Ziyarat ‘Ashura
The Dua of Ziyarat ‘Ashura is a special supplication recited on the Day of ‘Ashura. This dua is a heartfelt prayer that reflects the deep devotion and resilience of Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers. It is a way to connect spiritually with the sacrifices made on this significant day.
How to Recite the Dua
- Begin by performing Wudu (ablution) to purify yourself.
- Find a quiet place where you can focus on your prayer.
- Recite the dua with sincerity and concentration.
Significance of the Dua
- It serves as a reminder of the trials faced by Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions.
- The dua helps in seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
- It strengthens one’s faith and commitment to Islamic principles.
Key Phrases in the Dua
- “In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful”
- “O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad”
- “Peace be upon you, O Aba Abdillah”
Reciting this dua on the Day of ‘Ashura is a way to honor the memory of Imam Hussain (AS) and to reflect on the values of courage, faith, and sacrifice.
By incorporating the 9 sunnahs of Eid into your daily life, you can further enrich your spiritual journey and strengthen your connection with Allah.
Dua of Salatul Tasbih
Salatul Tasbih is a special prayer that holds great significance in Islam. It is a form of prayer that involves the recitation of specific phrases of glorification and praise of Allah. This prayer is highly recommended for seeking forgiveness and blessings.
How to Perform Salatul Tasbih
- Begin by making the intention (niyyah) to perform Salatul Tasbih.
- Pray 2 raka’at (units) of Salatul Tahyatul Wudu (two-cycle regular prayer).
- In each raka’at, after reciting Surah Al-Fatiha and another Surah, recite the following tasbih 15 times:
- Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah)
- La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- Continue the prayer as usual, but recite the tasbih 10 times in the bowing (ruku) position, 10 times after standing up from ruku, 10 times in the first prostration (sujood), 10 times after sitting up from sujood, and 10 times in the second sujood.
- Repeat this process for all four raka’at.
Salatul Tasbih is a beautiful way to connect with Allah and seek His mercy and forgiveness. It is especially recommended to perform this prayer during the sacred month of Muharram.
By incorporating Salatul Tasbih into your routine, you can strengthen your faith and draw closer to Allah. This prayer is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and purification.
Conclusion
Muharram is a special time for reflection, prayer, and seeking blessings. The five powerful duas we discussed can help you connect deeply with your faith and seek guidance for the year ahead. By incorporating these prayers into your daily routine, you can find peace and strength in your spiritual journey. Remember, every prayer made with sincerity is heard, and every effort to seek Allah’s blessings is rewarded. May this Muharram bring you closer to your faith and fill your life with peace and happiness.
