10 Reasons to Take Advantage of the Spiritual Power of Giving in Muharram 

Muharram is More Than a Time of Mourning 

For millions of Muslims across the world, Muharram is a sacred time marked by remembrance and reflection. 

But beyond mourning, it’s also a reminder to embody sacrifice, compassion, and generosity in our daily lives. 

The message of Karbala teaches us that giving—even in hardship—is a spiritual act that uplifts both the soul and society. 

The Legacy of Giving in Karbala 

Imam Hussain (as) Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice 

Imam Hussain (as), grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (saww), represented the peak of selfless giving. 

He gave everything—his family, his companions, and his own life—to uphold justice and preserve Islam’s moral principles. 

He is reported to have said:  
 
“Verily, people are slaves to the world, and religion is just what they say on their tongues. They uphold it as long as it serves their livelihoods, but when they are tested, the religious ones are few.” 
 
Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 78 

This hadith reminds us that genuine faith often demands real sacrifice, especially in difficulty. 

Abbas (as): The Thirst Quencher Who Never Drank 

Abbas (as), the loyal brother of Imam Hussain (as), is remembered for his unwavering courage. 

He crossed into danger to bring water for the children of Karbala—but never drank himself. 

The Quran tells us, 

وَيُطۡعِمُونَ ٱلطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِۦ مِسۡكِينٗا وَيَتِيمٗا وَأَسِيرًا 

“And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive…” 
 
Surah Al-Insan, Verse 8

Hazrat Abbas (as) lived out this principle through action, showing that true charity often means prioritizing others over ourselves—even in the harshest moments. 

This ultimate act of giving shows how charity is an integral part of Karbala. 

10 Reasons to Embrace the Spiritual Power of Giving in Muharram 

 1. Giving Reflects Righteousness 

True giving comes from what we hold dear—it’s not just generosity, but sincerity. 

The Holy Quran reminds us: 

لَن تَنَالُواْ ٱلۡبِرَّ حَتَّىٰ تُنفِقُواْ مِمَّا تُحِبُّونَۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُواْ مِن شَيْءٍ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ بِهِۦ عَلِيمٌ  

“Never shall you attain righteousness until you spend [in the way of Allah] from that which you love.”

Surah Ale Imran, Verse 92

 

Imam Ali (as) similarly stated,  

“Charity is the cure for your illness and the safeguard for your wealth.” 
 
Nahjul Balagha, Saying 258 

In Muharram, when hearts are softened, even small acts of giving can lead us to spiritual growth. 

2. Charity Purifies the Soul 

Muharram invites introspection, making it the perfect time to cleanse the soul through giving. 

Allah (swt) says to us in the glorious Quran: 

وَأَنفِقُواْ مِن مَّا رَزَقۡنَٰكُم مِّن قَبۡلِ أَن يَأۡتِيَ أَحَدَكُمُ ٱلۡمَوۡتُ فَيَقُولَ رَبِّ لَوۡلَآ أَخَّرۡتَنِيٓ إِلَىٰٓ أَجَلٖ قَرِيبٖ فَأَصَّدَّقَ وَأَكُن مِّنَ ٱلصَّٰلِحِينَ

“Spend from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you…”  
 
Surah Munafiqoon, Verse 10

Imam Ali (as) offered similar wisdom:  
 
“Protect your faith through charity and remove the harm from your bodies through supplication.” 
 
Nahjul Balagha, Saying 254 

Giving reduces selfishness and aligns our hearts with the compassionate spirit of the Ahlulbayt (as). 

3. Strengthen Your Bond with Ahlulbayt (as) 

Each charitable act in Muharram reaffirms our connection to Imam Hussain (as) and his principles. 

It’s a way to demonstrate commitment to truth, justice, and compassion. 

As the Imam (as) said:  
 
“The most generous of people is the one who gives to those from whom he has no hope of return.” 
 
Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 78 

4. Transforms Grief into Positive Action 

Our mourning should move us towards meaningful deeds. 

Imam Ali (as) said: 
 
“The best form of devotion to God is to not show off and to do good secretly.” 

Nahjul Balagha, Saying 23 

Charity during Muharram turns grief into purpose and ensures that the lessons of Karbala continue through our actions. 

5. Creates a Ripple Effect 

Charity during Muharram spreads a culture of generosity throughout the community. 

Imam Ali (as) said: 
 
“Goodness is sweeter than honey but heavier than a mountain.” 
 
Ghurar al-Hikam 
 
Simple acts of kindness may seem small, but their impact multiplies—bringing spiritual reward and societal benefit. 

6. Supports the Needy in Critical Times 

Across the globe, many families continue to face poverty, hunger, and crisis. 

The Prophet Muhammad (saww) said: 
 
“Charity extinguishes the anger of the Lord and protects against a bad death.” 
 
Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 74 

During Muharram, we remember the suffering of the Prophet’s (saww) family and reflect that compassion by helping others today. 

Even a loaf of bread or a clean glass of water can mirror the values of Karbala 

7. Revives the Spirit of Karbala Today 

Giving during Muharram brings the message of Karbala into the present. 

Charity becomes a living expression of sacrifice, justice, and truth—values that transcend time. 

8. Inspires Future Generations to Give 

Children are deeply influenced by what they see. 

Imam Ali (as) said: 
 
“Train your children in good manners and charity, for they are born in a state of purity.” 

Ghurar al-Hikam 

When children witness generosity during Muharram, they inherit a tradition of compassion and community care. 

9. Unites Communities Under One Cause 

Giving connects people—across backgrounds and beliefs. 

From supporting majalis to donating food or volunteering, these acts create bonds that strengthen communal spirit. 

Imam Ali (as) said: 
 
“Verily, charity brings blessings and increases sustenance.” 
 
Nahjul Balagha, Saying 253 

Charity promotes unity by reminding us of our shared humanity. 

10. Rewards Beyond This Life 

Every charitable deed is an investment in the hereafter. 

Islam emphasizes Sadaqah Jariyah—ongoing charity—as one of the best legacies a person can leave. 

The Prophet (saww) said:  

“When a human dies, all their deeds end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.” 
 
Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 74 

Charity given with sincerity can echo for generations. 

How to Practise Giving During Muharram 

Donate to Charitable Causes 

Support reputable charities that offer food, clean water, education, medical care, or emergency assistance. 

Volunteer Your Time and Skills 

Help at your local mosque or Islamic centre. Whether it’s cleaning, cooking, or event setup—your contribution matters. 

Support Majalis and Community Programmes 

Financially back majalis and Muharram gatherings that educate, inspire, and preserve the message of Karbala. 

You can also volunteer to support The Zahra Trust Canada’s Muharram events. 

FAQs About Giving in Muharram 

Give in Their Name, Live in Their Legacy 

Muharram calls us to reflect, remember—and act. 

Let your giving be a tribute to the values of Karbala and a sign of your devotion. 

Give in their name. Live in their legacy. Serve in their honour.