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Day and History: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. In Yemen, as in many other Muslim-majority countries, this period holds significant religious importance. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is particularly significant due to historical events tied to the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala. This event has a deep resonance especially among Shia Muslims.
Traditions: In Yemen, which has a considerable Shia population (mainly Zaidis), Muharram is observed with various religious and cultural traditions:
Public Mourning: Many participate in public mourning sessions known as 'majalis' where they remember Husayn’s sacrifice and lament the tragedy that befell him and his family.
Recitation and Poetry: Recitations of poetry and accounts of Husayn's martyrdom are common. These recitations aim to evoke emotions and honor those who stood for justice.
Processions: Some communities may hold processions where individuals express grief through beating their chests or participating in other traditional forms of mourning.
Charity: It's customary for people to engage more in acts of charity during Muharram. They may distribute food or give alms to the poor as an act of piety.
What People Do: On Ashura, many Yemenis observe fasting from sunrise to sunset, emulating what they believe was practiced by Prophet Muhammad. While Sunni Muslims also fast on this day recalling Moses' exodus from Egypt and subsequent victory over Pharaoh, their observance might differ from that of Shias who primarily focus on the events at Karbala.
Additionally, some Yemenis might use this time for reflection upon one's own life and actions, seeking forgiveness for sins, making resolutions for self-improvement, or starting new ventures believing that Muharram is a month of blessings.
In summary, Muharram is a time marked by solemnity and remembrance for many Yemenis who engage in traditional practices reflecting their religious affiliations within Islam.
