A day of faith, sacrifice, and deep reflection was observed this week: the Day of Ashura, occurred on the 10th of Muharram, which fell on June 25 this year.

This sacred day in the Islamic calendar holds profound significance for Muslims around the world. It is a day deeply rooted in faith, gratitude, sacrifice, and the triumph of truth over falsehood.

While its historical events occurred centuries ago, the lessons of Ashura remain remarkably relevant in today's world.

The month of Muharram itself occupies a special place in Islam. It is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Holy Koran during which warfare was traditionally prohibited and believers were encouraged to increase acts of worship and reflection.

Allah says: “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is 12 months... of these, four are sacred.” (Koran 9:36)

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) referred to Muharram as “the Month of Allah”, highlighting its unique status and spiritual importance.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to fast on Ashura after learning that Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Children of Israel fasted on this day to thank God for delivering them from the tyranny of Pharaoh.

The Prophet said, “We have more right to Musa than they do,” and he fasted on the day and encouraged his followers to do the same. (Sahih al-Bukhari)

For Muslims, Ashura is therefore a day of gratitude to Allah for His mercy, protection, and guidance. It reminds believers that no matter how powerful oppression may seem, truth and justice ultimately prevail through God’s will.

Ashura also carries special significance because of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), at Karbala in 680 CE.

Imam Husayn stood firmly against injustice and refused to compromise his principles for political gain. His sacrifice has become a timeless symbol of courage, integrity, and resistance to oppression.

The Holy Koran repeatedly teaches believers to stand firmly for justice.

Allah says: “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves, your parents, or your relatives.” (Koran 4:135)

In a world where corruption, injustice, exploitation, and moral confusion often dominate headlines, the lessons of Ashura are as relevant as ever. Ashura challenges us to examine our own lives and ask difficult questions: do we speak out against wrongdoing? Do we stand up for the vulnerable? Are we willing to uphold our values when it is inconvenient or costly?

The day also serves as a reminder of patience during hardship. Both the story of Prophet Musa and the sacrifice of Imam Husayn teach that trials are part of the human experience, but steadfast faith and trust in God provide strength to endure them.

Ashura is not merely a historical commemoration. It is a living reminder that faith must inspire action. It calls believers to cultivate gratitude, defend justice, uphold moral principles, and remain hopeful even during difficult times.

As we reflected on Ashura this week, we are reminded that societies are strengthened not simply by economic prosperity or political power, but by moral courage, compassion, and commitment to truth.

The message of Ashura echoes across generations: stand for what is right, trust in God, and never surrender your principles to the pressures of the world.

May Allah accept our worship and grant us the blessings of this sacred month of Muharram. Ameen.

Bermuda always and forever stand firm for what is right and just.

The Muslim community extends heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family of Sir John Swan.

We honour and thank Sir John for his wisdom, strength, kindness and unwavering love for us, the Bermuda people. Sir John will be remembered as a true son of the soil, who toiled relentlessly for a better Bermuda.

A grateful nation salutes you, well done our faithful son.

The strength of a nation is measured not by its wealth or power, but by its commitment to justice, truth, and moral character.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam