22^nd January 2025 – 28^th January 2025 (21^st Rajab – 27^th Rajab)

The week of 22nd January to 28th January marks significant events in Islamic history, commemorating key moments in the lives of Shia Muslim figures and the early Islamic community.

26th January – 25th Rajab

Martyrdom of Imam al-Kadhim (a) – 183 AH

The 25th of Rajab is a solemn day observed by Shia Muslims as the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Musa al-Kadhim (a), the seventh Imam in the revered lineage of the Ahl al-Bayt. Imam al-Kadhim (a) is remembered not only for his profound knowledge and spiritual guidance but also for his remarkable patience and steadfastness in the face of immense adversity. Born in 744 CE, he dedicated his life to preserving the principles of justice, piety, and the teachings of Islam.

Imam Musa al-Kadhim (a) was martyred in 799 CE during the oppressive reign of the Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid. Despite enduring years of imprisonment due to his refusal to acquiesce to the tyranny of the Abbasid regime, the Imam remained a beacon of resilience and faith. His unwavering commitment to truth and his advocacy for justice posed a significant challenge to the Abbasid authority, making him a target of their cruelty.

The tragic circumstances of his death in Baghdad marked a poignant chapter in Shia history, symbolizing the struggle against oppression. His burial site, now the renowned Kadhimayn Shrine in Baghdad, serves as a place of pilgrimage and reflection for millions worldwide. Imam al-Kadhim’s legacy continues to inspire those who seek knowledge, spiritual devotion, and the courage to stand firm in the face of injustice.

27th January – 26th Rajab

Demise of Abu Talib – 3 BH

According to some traditions, 26th of Rajab also marks the solemn anniversary of the demise of Abu Talib (pbuh), the noble uncle of the Prophet Muhammad (s), who passed away in 619 CE, three years before the Hijra. Abu Talib (pbuh) played a crucial role in the early years of the Prophet’s mission, serving as a staunch supporter and protector against the relentless persecution faced by the nascent Muslim community.

As the head of the Banu Hashim clan, Abu Talib (pbuh) used his influence and position to shield the Prophet (s) from the hostility of the Quraysh, despite himself enduring significant pressure and hardships. His unwavering loyalty and love for the Prophet (s) were evident throughout his life, particularly during critical moments like the boycott of the Banu Hashim, when the family endured severe hardships for their commitment to the Prophet’s cause.

The loss of Abu Talib (pbuh) was a devastating blow to the Prophet (s), as it left him without a key protector. This loss, coupled with the passing of his beloved wife, Lady Khadijah (a), in the same year, led to the period being known as the “Year of Sorrow” (Aam al-Huzn). Abu Talib’s legacy remains a testament to his courage, dedication, and pivotal role in supporting the Prophet’s mission during Islam’s formative years.

Demise of Allama Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari – 1419 AH

On the 26th of Rajab in 1419 AH, the Shia world mourned the passing of Allama Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari, a prominent scholar of the 20th century. Allama Ja’fari made remarkable contributions to Islamic thought, especially in the areas of theology and philosophy. His academic legacy continues to influence Shia scholarship today, and he is remembered for his efforts to promote the teachings of Ahl al-Bayt (pbut)  and deepen the understanding of Islamic principles among scholars and the general Muslim community. His passing marked the loss of a distinguished intellectual leader whose work transcended borders and generations.

Among his most outstanding contributions are his commentaries on two monumental Islamic works:

1. Commentary on Nahjul Balaghah (1953): One of Allama Ja’fari’s earliest and most revered works is his comprehensive commentary on Nahjul Balaghah (The Peak of Eloquence), a collection of sermons, letters, and sayings attributed to Imam Ali (a). Published in 1953, this commentary explores the profound wisdom and ethical lessons embedded in Imam Ali’s words. Allama Ja’fari offers insights into the historical, linguistic, theological, and philosophical dimensions of Nahjul Balaghah, solidifying it as one of the most respected commentaries on this critical text in modern scholarship.
2. Commentary on Mathnawi Maulawi (1967-1974): Another major scholarly achievement by Allama Ja’fari is his detailed commentary on Mathnawi Maulawi (The Spiritual Couplets of Maulana Rumi), completed between 1967 and 1974. This commentary explores the mystical poetry of Rumi, examining the spiritual, metaphysical, and philosophical themes that run throughout the text. By contextualising Rumi’s work within the framework of Islamic thought and Shia mysticism, Allama Ja’fari offered a deeper understanding of the Mathnawi and helped bridge the gap between Sufi mysticism and Islamic philosophy.

These two monumental works continue to serve as essential texts in the study of Islamic philosophy, ethics, and mysticism.

28th January – 27th Rajab

Bi’that of the Prophet Muhammad (s) – 13 BH

The 27th of Rajab is a momentous day in Islamic history, marking the Bi’that, or the beginning of the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (s), in 610 CE. On this sacred occasion, the Prophet (s) received the first divine revelation from Angel Jibreel in the Cave of Hira, situated on Mount Noor near Mecca. These initial verses of the Qur’an, beginning with “Iqra” (Read), not only marked the start of his prophetic mission but also the dawn of a message that would transform the spiritual and social fabric of the world.

This event signifies the commencement of Islam’s call to monotheism, justice, and compassion, emphasizing the unity of God and the responsibility of human beings to uphold moral and ethical values. The Bi’that also serves as a reminder of the Prophet’s unwavering resolve and dedication, as he embarked on a mission to reform society, combat oppression, and guide humanity toward enlightenment despite facing immense opposition.

For Muslims, the 27th of Rajab is a time to reflect on the significance of the Prophet’s (s) mission and the transformative impact of Islam. It is observed with acts of worship, including prayers, fasting, and recitation of the Qur’an, as a tribute to the profound message that began in a quiet cave but grew to illuminate hearts across the world.

These events offer an opportunity to reflect on the enduring impact of these pivotal moments and figures in Shia and Islamic history.