The Month of Muharrem (Aşure)
1. Islamic Month of Muharrem:
- The Month of Muharrem, known as “Muharrem Ayı” in Turkish, is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It holds special significance in the Islamic world, including the Turkish-speaking world.
2. Aşure Day:
- The 10th day of Muharrem, known as “Aşure Günü” in Turkish, is particularly noteworthy. It is also referred to as Aşure Day. This day is observed with various religious and cultural traditions.
3. Religious Significance:
- In Islamic tradition, Aşure Day commemorates several important events, including the day when Noah’s Ark came to rest on Mount Ararat after the great flood. Additionally, it is believed to be the day when the Prophet Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny by the parting of the Red Sea. For the Alevi community in Turkey, it is a day of mourning to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the son of Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
4. Aşure Dessert:
- Aşure is a traditional Turkish dessert that plays a central role in the observance of Aşure Day. It is a sweet porridge made from a variety of ingredients such as grains (usually wheat and barley), dried fruits, nuts, and sugar. Aşure is often cooked in large quantities and distributed among family, friends, neighbors, and the less fortunate as a symbol of sharing, unity, and generosity.
5. Cultural Traditions:
- Aşure Month and Aşure Day are marked by various cultural traditions in the Turkish-speaking world. Families and communities come together to prepare Aşure, and it is customary to share this dessert with others. People often visit friends and relatives to exchange greetings and Aşure.
6. Acts of Charity:
- Aşure Day also encourages acts of charity and goodwill. Many individuals and organizations use this occasion to distribute food and necessities to those in need, reflecting the spirit of compassion and giving.
7. Interfaith Harmony:
- Aşure Day exemplifies interfaith and intercultural harmony in the Turkish-speaking world. While it has Islamic roots, it is a celebration that transcends religious boundaries, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds to join in the festivities and share in the Aşure dessert.
8. Reflection and Remembrance:
- For many, The Month of Muharrem and Aşure Day serve as a time for reflection, spiritual growth, and remembrance of important historical events. It is a period of contemplation on themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of preserving traditions.
The Alevis follow a mystical version of Shia Islam and they’re the largest religious minority in Turkey.
In summary, The Month of Muharrem, with its culminating event of Aşure Day, holds great cultural and religious significance in the Turkish-speaking world. It is a time when people come together to prepare and share Aşure, fostering a sense of community, charity, and interfaith harmony while commemorating historical events and values cherished in Islamic tradition.