Muharram 1445 AH / 2023 AD Program

Muharram 1445 AH Programs at IMAN Center will be held in person each night starting July 18, 2023, at 7:30 PM and ending on July  28, 2023. We expect the crescent moon to be sighted around sunset on Tuesday July 18, 2-23.

Full day Ashura progam will take place on Friday July 28, 11:00 AM starting with a'amaal recommended for the day of Ashura.  Ladies majlis for Ashura day will take place at 5:00 PM.

The last program for the intial Muharram series will be Sham-e-ghariban at 9:00 PM on Friday July 28, 2023.

Given  recent cases of COVID-19 break out, for the safety of all community members, only those in good health and exhibiting no symptoms may attend in person.   Anyone not feeling well can join our live broadcast instead of attending in person.   If you are not sure you are well, then please be safe and join the program from home.

Live broadcast link for the program is http://live.iman-wa.org

Our daily Muharram program will feature Shaykh Mohammad Javad Shomali. His topic of discussion will be: Islam and the Meaning Crisis

About Shaykh Mohammad Javad Shomali

Having studied and taught in the Islamic Seminaries of Iran for almost a decade,  Shaykh Mohammad Javad Shomali joined the University of Cambridge, to complete an MPhil and PhD. in Middle Eastern studies.   He developed a strong interest for mental health and psychology and this interest brought him back to the University of Cambridge a year after the completion of his PhD. right where he studied Psychotherapy at the faculty of education. Shaykh Mohammad Javad Shomali has researched intersection between psychotherapy and spiritual development.

Daily program schedule:

7:30 PM Open with Qur'an

7:40 PM Marthiya

7:50 PM Community Announcements

8:00 PM Presentation by Shaykh Mohammad Javad Shomali

8:45 PM Lamentation / Matam / Latmiyah

9:15  PM Salaat ul Maghrebain*

9:45 PM Conclusion

A special children's/younger youth  program will run concurrently 7:30 - 8:45 PM in the south room.  

Sponsors for daily tabarruk are welcome and can e-mail hospitality@iman-wa.org to sign-up.

Muharram 1445 AH Reflection

Muharram holds immense significance for us as it marks a time of remembrance, reflection, and renewal of our faith. It is a month of both mourning and introspection, where we pay homage to the sacrifices of Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), and his companions.

As we embark upon this journey in the year 1445 AH, let us take a moment to contemplate the lessons we can draw from Imam Hussain's unparalleled courage and unwavering devotion to justice. His sacrifice at the Battle of Karbala stands as a timeless example of the struggle against oppression and tyranny. 

Imam Hussain's refusal to surrender to an unjust ruler, even in the face of immense adversity and certain martyrdom, highlights the paramount importance of upholding our principles and standing firm for what is right.

In the face of unimaginable hardships, Imam Hussain demonstrated unwavering faith, resilience, and the strength to resist injustice. His unwavering commitment to truth serves as an inspiration for us all, reminding us that the path of righteousness may be arduous, but it is one worth treading upon.

As we immerse ourselves in the spirit of Muharram, let us reflect upon our own lives. Are we standing up against oppression and injustice in our communities? 

Are we extending a helping hand to those in need?

Are we practicing compassion and empathy towards one another, just as Imam Hussain exemplified in his teachings?

Muharram is not merely a time of mourning, but also an opportunity for self-reflection and self-improvement. 

It is a reminder for us to reevaluate our actions, to strive for excellence in our character, and to deepen our connection with Allah. 

Let us seize this blessed month to reconnect with our faith and make a renewed commitment to the values that Imam Hussain sacrificed his life for.

As we come together in unity and solidarity during this Muharram gathering, let us remember the importance of fostering love, understanding, and respect among ourselves and within our communities. 

Let us honor the memory of Imam Hussain by embodying his teachings of justice, compassion, and the pursuit of truth.

May this  Muharram ignite a spark within our hearts, inspiring us to live with greater purpose and to uphold the principles that Imam Hussain so valiantly defended. 

Let us embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth and collective remembrance, as we strive to make this world a better place for all.

May Allah bless us all with His mercy and guidance throughout this sacred month of Muharram.