The Historical Significance of Ashura
Fasting on ‘Ashura (10th Muharram) – Virtues, Hadith, and Significance
Introduction – The Month of Muharram and ‘Ashura
Alhamdulillah, Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) has blessed us with another year, beginning with Muharram, one of the four sacred months in Islam. Within this blessed month lies a day of immense importance – the 10th of Muharram, known as ‘Ashura.
The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam) emphasized the significance of this day, encouraging the fast of ‘Ashura as a means of forgiveness and closeness to Allah.
Hadith on Fasting ‘Ashura
Several authentic narrations highlight the excellence of fasting on the day of ‘Ashura:
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Mu’awiyah ibn Abu Sufyan (RA) relates:
“It is the day of ‘Ashura. Allah has not made fasting obligatory for you. But I am fasting. He who likes to observe fast among you should do so, and he who likes not to observe it (does not have to).”
[Sahih Muslim] -
Abu Qatada (RA) reports:
“The fast on the 10th of Muharram atones for the sins of the preceding year.”
[Sahih Muslim] -
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrates:
“After Ramadan, the fasts of Muharram have the greatest excellence.”
[Sahih Muslim]
Sunnah of Fasting the 9th and 10th of Muharram
The Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam) instructed the Ummah to fast on the 9th and 10th Muharram to distinguish Muslims from the Jews who also observed this fast:
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Ibn Abbas (RA) reports:
“If I live till the next year, I will surely fast on the 9th (along with the 10th).”
[Sahih Muslim]
Thus, the Sunnah is to fast either:
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9th and 10th Muharram, or
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10th and 11th Muharram
Historical Significance of ‘Ashura
‘Ashura is not just a day of fasting but a day of divine interventions and blessings in Islamic history. According to authentic traditions, on this day:
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Allah accepted the repentance of Adam (‘AS).
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Nuh (‘AS) and his companions were saved from the flood.
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The fire became cool for Ibrahim (‘AS).
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Musa (‘AS) and Bani Israel were saved, while Pharaoh was drowned.
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Yunus (‘AS) was freed from the belly of the fish.
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Yusuf (‘AS) was reunited with Ya‘qub (‘AS).
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Ayyub (‘AS) was restored to health.
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Isa (‘AS) was raised to Jannah.
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The martyrdom of Imam Husayn (RA), the beloved grandson of the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam), also occurred on this day.
Special Deeds Recommended on ‘Ashura
Islamic scholars, including Sayyidina Abdul Qadir al-Jilani (RA) in Ghunya li-Talibi Tariq al-Haqq, have mentioned additional virtuous acts for ‘Ashura:
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Fasting on this day brings the reward of fasting for a lifetime.
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Feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, or caring for orphans brings immense reward.
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Visiting the sick grants multiplied blessings.
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Being generous to one’s family leads to increased sustenance throughout the year.
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Taking Ghusl and applying kohl were also encouraged for blessings.
Lessons from the Fasting of ‘Ashura
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Gratitude to Allah: Just as Musa (‘AS) fasted in gratitude for Allah’s help, we too fast in thanks.
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Spiritual Renewal: The day erases sins of the past year, offering a chance to start anew.
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Unity with Prophets: It connects us with the legacy of previous Prophets (‘Alaihim as-Salaam).
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Following Sunnah: By fasting as the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam) commanded, we uphold his noble way.
Conclusion
The 10th of Muharram (‘Ashura) is a day of immense blessings, history, and forgiveness. Fasting on this day is a Sunnah of the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam), and fasting the 9th and 10th brings even greater reward.
May Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) allow us to honor this sacred day with fasting, charity, and remembrance, and may He accept our deeds. Ameen.
FAQs on ‘Ashura (10th Muharram)
Q1: Is fasting on ‘Ashura obligatory?
No, it is not obligatory but highly recommended Sunnah.
Q2: What is the reward of fasting on ‘Ashura?
According to Hadith, it wipes out the sins of the previous year.
Q3: Should we fast only on the 10th Muharram?
It is recommended to fast on the 9th and 10th, or 10th and 11th Muharram.
Q4: Why did the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam) emphasize fasting on this day?
Because of its historical importance and as an expression of gratitude to Allah for saving Musa (‘AS) and Bani Israel.
Q5: What other deeds are recommended on ‘Ashura?
Feeding the poor, helping orphans, visiting the sick, being generous with family, and performing acts of charity.
