Muharrem fast, a period of mourning for Alevis, begins tomorrow

The Alevi community in Turkey is preparing to observe the Muharrem Orucu, also known as Yas-ı Matem or the fast of the 12 Imams, beginning Tuesday. This 12-day fast marks the Islamic month of Muharrem and holds deep significance as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala.

During this period of mourning, many Alevis traditionally refrain from drinking plain water and consuming meat. They also avoid celebrations, weddings, and festivities, focusing instead on remembrance and spiritual reflection. Unlike other fasting practices, observers do not partake in the pre-dawn meal (sahur); instead, the fast begins after midnight and concludes at sunset.

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The first condition of the Muharrem days is to stay away from entertainment.

The 10th day of Muharrem, known as Ashura, marks the tragic events of Karbala in 680 AD, when Imam Hussein and his followers were martyred by the army of Caliph Yazid. This historical tragedy is central to Alevi belief and identity, and the Muharrem fast serves as a solemn observance of this profound loss.

Hasan Meşeli, President of the Malatya Hacı Bektaş Veli Culture Foundation Center, described the Karbala incident as one of the most painful events in human history. He noted that millions, both Alevi and Sunni Muslims, observe the Muharrem fast to remember the martyrs of Karbala and keep the sorrow of the event alive. Following the fast, the tradition of preparing and distributing aşure, a sweet pudding, is observed in many regions, often accompanied by the sacrifice of animals to foster sharing and solidarity.

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The Karbala tragedy is one of the most painful events in human history.