Demise Of Prophet Muhammad And Martyrdom Of Imam Hassan
The Demise of Prophet Muhammad and Martyrdom of Imam Hassan is a public holiday in Iran that’s observed annually on the 28th day of the Islamic month of Safar. It’s a day that commemorates two tragic but important events for Shia Muslims. First, it commemorates the death of the Prophet Muhammad, and second, it commemorates the murder and martyrdom of the second Imam for Shia Muslims, Imam Hassan.
Iran (National holiday)This holiday is observed with religious ceremonies, mourning processions, and pilgrims visiting the tomb of the Prophet. It’s a public holiday that’s celebrated solemnly, and people have the day off work. It’s also a day when many businesses, government offices, and schools are closed as well.
The History of the Demise of Prophet Muhammad and Martyrdom of Imam Hassan
After he established and spread the Muslim religion, Prophet Muhammad died on June 8th, 632, or about 14 Rabi al-Awwal 11 on the Islamic calendar. According to tradition, it’s believed that he died of a fever and was buried in Aisha’s house. The area where he was buried would then be expanded to become the Mosque of the Prophet by subsequent caliphs. In the 13th century, the dome above his tomb was added, and the area would become a complex for other important Islamic leaders.
Imam Hassan was born in the city of Medina on the 15th of Ramadan in the third year after Hijrah. He was the eldest son of Ali and Muhammad’s daughter Fatimah and is revered among Shia Muslims as the 2nd Imam. According to tradition, he was poisoned by his wife on the order of the Caliph Muawiya. Muawiya wanted to ensure the succession of his son and was jealous of the popularity of Hassan.
Observing the Demise of Prophet Muhammad and Martyrdom of Imam Hassan
This holiday is a general day off, and many schools, businesses, and government offices are closed. It’s also a day that’s filled with prayer services, fasting, mourning processions, and other events that honor the Prophet Muhammad and the second Imam Hassan.
Iran (National holiday)
