New Islamic Year - 1441

The coming of the Month of Muharram marks the new Islamic year of 1441. Besides being one of the four sacred months in Islam, Muharram has been described (in Hadith) as ‘the month of Allah’. It is the best month to fast in after the month of Ramadan (Muslim). It is Sunnah to fast the day of ‘Ashurah (the 10th of Muharram) which is a means of forgiveness for the previous years (minor) sins.

Major sins are forgiven through tawbah (repentance) which comprises of giving up the sin, having regret for having done it and lastly, having the resolve to never go back to it. If the sin has to do with the rights of another person, then there are four conditions: the three mentioned above and restoring the rights of that person.

The reward of repentance is a good life in the shade of faith, contentment, peace of mind and tranquility. Allah says:

“Seek the forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him in repentance, that He may grant you good enjoyment, for a term appointed, and bestow His abounding Grace to every owner of grace (i.e. the one who helps and serves the needy and deserving, physically and with his wealth, and even with good words)” (Houd 11:3)