25th Muharram: Imam Sajjad (a.s) Martyrdom Anniversary & A’maal

Introduction

The 25th of Muharram holds a profound and sorrowful significance, as it marks the Martyrdom Anniversary (Shahadat) of the Fourth Imam known as Zayn al-‘Abidin (the Ornament of the Worshippers). During the period of deep mourning (Ayyam-e-Aza) for the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). After the tragedy of Karbala (10th Muharram) and the painful journey of the captives, these days remind believers of the long-lasting oppression, grief, and patience endured by Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (AS) and Bibi Zaynab (SA).

Night A’mal of 25th Muharram

Maintaining the State of Mourning

  • Remain away from joy, amusement, and worldly distractions
  • Remember the continuing suffering of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS) after Karbala

Scholars mention that the nights of Muharram are spiritually heavy with grief and remembrance.

Salat (Recommended Prayers)

Offer Nawafil (optional prayers) with humility. Read it 100 times, this act is for 1 hour.

You should offer two rakats of the prayer of need. Intend to Imam Zain Ul Abidin (AS). Salam that will offer Two Rakats of Hajat Prayer my Fourth Imam is sick from Karbala, open and once Alam, once Surah Kausar in the second Rakat Surah Alam, Surah Qul Huwa Allahu Ahad very simple namaz towards Fajr.

After prayers, recite:

  • Subhanallah – 33 times
  • Al-hamdu lillah – 33 times
  • Allahu Akbar – 34 times

It is written that the Fourth Imam’s dua has to be recited 100 times. You will not get up from the prayer mat, your prayer will be fulfilled (inshallah).

— Mafatih Amaal, pg. 105

Du’a for the Oppressed

It is recommended to sincerely supplicate:

  • For the appearance of Imam al-Mahdi (AJ)
  • For relief from oppression and injustice
  • For steadfastness on the path of Wilayah

Recitation of Ziyarat

If possible, recite:

  • Ziyarat Imam Husayn (AS) (short or long)

Or say from the heart: “Peace be upon you, O Aba ‘Abdillah, and upon the souls that rest in your courtyard.”

Day A’mal of 25th Muharram

Fasting (Not as Joy)

Fasting in Muharram (except the 10th as a joyful fast) is permissible with the intention of grief, not celebration. It is recommended to break the fast simply (water, bread), remembering the thirst of Karbala.

Charity (Sadaqah)

Give sadaqah, even if it is small. Intend the reward for:

  • Imam Husayn (AS)
  • The martyrs of Karbala
  • The oppressed followers of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS)

Mafatih emphasizes charity during times of calamity as a means of repelling hardship.

Qur’an Recitation

Very Recommended Dua & Surahs:

Dua Abu Hamza Thumali

Famous Dua of the Fourth Imam which will improve our circumstances which will relieve our stress. It is very good for the afterlife.

Surah Al-Fajr

(Closely associated with Imam Husayn (AS))

Surah Ahzab

(Highlights loyalty to Ahl al-Bayt)

Reflect on verses related to:

  • Patience (Sabr)
  • Justice (‘Adl)
  • Standing against tyranny

Majlis & Remembrance

Attend or listen to Majlis-e-Aza. If alone, read or listen to masa’ib of:

  • The captives of Karbala
  • Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin (AS) in chains
  • Sayyida Zaynab (SA) in the courts of tyranny

Spiritual Lessons of 25th Muharram

  • Oppression does not end with martyrdom; its effects continue on families and society
  • True Islam survives through patience, remembrance, and moral resistance
  • Silence against injustice makes one spiritually responsible

Sahifa-e-Sajjadiya (The Scripture of Sajjad)

Sahifa-e-Sajjadiya (The Scripture of Sajjad) is one of the most profound and cherished collections of Islamic prayers and spiritual teachings. Often referred to as the “Psalms of Islam” (Zabur-e-Aal-e-Muhammad), it is a masterpiece of both literature and theology.

The book was authored by Ali ibn al-Husayn, more commonly known by his title Zayn al-Abidin (The Adornment of the Worshippers) or As-Sajjad (The Prostrating One).

What Type of Duas are in it?

The Sahifa is not just a book of “requests” to God; it is a comprehensive guide on how to live a balanced, ethical life. It contains 54 main supplications, covering a vast range of human experiences:

1. Spiritual & Theological

These prayers focus on the relationship between the Creator and the created.

  • Praise of God: Glorifying the attributes of the Divine
  • Repentance: Beautifully articulated prayers for seeking forgiveness and acknowledging human flaws
  • Morning and Evening: Setting a spiritual tone for the start and end of the day

2. Social & Family Ethics

The Imam provides a blueprint for how to treat others:

  • Dua for Parents: One of the most famous prayers, teaching deep respect and gratitude toward mother and father
  • Dua for Children: Asking for the well-being and moral uprightness of one’s offspring
  • Dua for Neighbors and Friends: Emphasizing community bonds and kindness

3. Personal Well-being

These address the internal struggles every person faces:

  • In Sickness: A prayer for when one is ill or in pain
  • Against Debt: Seeking help for financial burdens and anxiety
  • In Times of Worry: Seeking peace and tranquility during hardships

4. Global & Communal Concerns

  • For the People of the Frontiers: A famous prayer for those guarding the borders and for the safety of the general public
  • For Rain: A prayer during times of drought

Link for: Sahifa-Sajjadiya

خاتمة

The 25th of Muharram reminds us that Karbala was not a single day — it was a continuing mission. Through prayer, mourning, charity, and self-reform, believers keep alive the message of Imam Husayn (AS): dignity, justice, and resistance against tyranny.

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