Ashura

The first Islamic month, muнarram, is often called šhr 3ašura. The tenth day is nhar 3ašura, marking the Islamic New Year.

The textbook explains that the ninth and tenth days are traditionally considered blessed. Some traditions associate the tenth day with important events such as the creation of Adam and Eve, heaven and hell, and life and death.

Ashura customs described in the textbook

• people gathering together
• wearing masks and costumes
• speaking with disguised voices
• preparing special food
• giving charity
• visiting relatives’ graves
• lighting fires
• singing and dancing around fires
• bathing on the morning of Ashura
• children wearing special clothes
• children playing small drums
• giving children presents

Traditional beliefs may connect the fire and water customs with purification, protection and blessing.