What is Al-Hijra and Muharram?

Al-Hijra, or the Hijra, refers to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking a significant turning point in Islamic history. This event is so pivotal that it marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muharram is the first month of this calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. The day of Ashura, which falls in Muharram, holds particular significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, with Shia Muslims observing it as a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Muhammad.