Ashura in Egypt ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Ashura in Egypt and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The Muslim holiday of Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It marks the day that Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Hussein, was martyred in the year 680 AD. Hussein was killed along with his small band of followers in a battle against the much larger army of the caliph Yazid. The event is significant for Shia Muslims, who believe that Hussein was the rightful heir to the caliphate. Sunni Muslims also revere Hussein as a great martyr.
In Egypt, Ashura is marked with processions and mournful recitations of poetry. Many people wear black and beat their chests or heads in grief. Some Shia Muslims engage in self-flagellation as a way of expressing their sorrow for Hussein’s death.