12 Days of Muharram

12 Days of Muharram

The first twelve days of Muḥarram are days of remembrance, devotion, and awakening of the soul. 12 Days of Muharram traces the journey of mourning (ʿazāʾ, ritual lamentation) and reflection that begins with the new moon of Muḥarram and culminates on ʿĀshūrāʾ (the tenth day). Through these sacred days, the faithful relive the moral and spiritual legacy of Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa, an honorific meaning ʿalayhi al-salām — peace be upon him) and the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa, the Prophet’s Household), reaffirming their commitment to truth (ḥaqq), justice (ʿadl), and reform (iṣlāḥ, moral rectification).

About the Book

Published by the World Organization for Islamic Services, 12 Days of Muharram serves as both a devotional guide and an educational resource for understanding the meaning of Muḥarram in the Shīʿī tradition. Drawing from ḥadīth (prophetic tradition), historical accounts, and contemporary reflections, the author presents a day-by-day narrative that connects the events of Karbalāʾ to the broader mission of Imam Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī (ʿa). Each day introduces key moments — from the Imam’s departure from Madinah to the culmination of his martyrdom — along with meditations on patience (ṣabr), faith (īmān), and love (maḥabbah) as taught by the Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa). Written in clear and heartfelt language, the book helps readers internalize the spiritual rhythm of Muḥarram, transforming historical remembrance into moral renewal.

What You Will Discover

• A structured, day-by-day account of the first twelve days of Muḥarram.
• The historical events that led to the tragedy of ʿĀshūrāʾ.
• The moral and spiritual virtues exemplified by Imam Ḥusayn (ʿa) and his companions.
• The devotional and educational importance of mourning (ʿazāʾ) in Shīʿī tradition.
• How reflecting on Muḥarram renews faith, patience (ṣabr), and commitment to justice (ʿadl).

About the Author

The World Organization for Islamic Services is a Shīʿī research and publishing institution based in Tehran, dedicated to translating, editing, and presenting authentic works of Islamic scholarship. Through publications such as 12 Days of Muharram, it seeks to guide readers through the rituals and reflections of Muḥarram, deepening their understanding of the values embodied in Imam Ḥusayn’s (ʿa) sacrifice.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for students, teachers, and readers seeking a devotional and educational guide to the first twelve days of Muḥarram — a time of remembrance that renews the heart with faith, justice, and divine love.