Muharram is the first month of the Islamic, or Hijri, calendar, and one of four sacred months during which Islam forbids warfare and encourages increased prayer, charity and reflection. The most important day is called Ashoura, which commemorates the martyrdom of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, Hussein, who was killed in 680 battle in present-day Iraq. While the passage of the Islamic new year is generally more solemn and introspective than festive, Muslims may observe the holiday differently, according to their school of thought.

Shiite Muslims around the world are marking Ashoura, a holy day symbolizing sacrifice and martyrdom that holds special significance for many this year after months of war in Iran…

Shiite Muslims in the U.S. and worldwide have been observing a period of mourning leading to the day of Ashoura, which marks the seventh-century killing of Hussein, the grandson…