The fast of Ashura (10th of Muharram) and its significance

The fast of Ashura and its significance (10th of Muharram)

Fasting is one of the most revered acts of worship in Islam, and among the various fasting days prescribed in the Islamic tradition, the fast of Ashura holds a special significance. The 10th of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is an important day for Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting and reflection.

It is a day not only to draw closer to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) but also a day rich with historical and spiritual meaning. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of fasting on Ashura, the reasons behind it, and the rewards it offers, backed by references from the Quran and Hadith in both English and Arabic.

What is Ashura?

Ashura, derived from the Arabic word “Asharah,” meaning “ten,” is the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram. It has historical, religious, and spiritual significance, not only for Muslims but also for people of other faiths. In pre-Islamic Arabia, Ashura was observed by the Arabs as a day of fasting, but its significance was transformed after the advent of Islam.

The Historical Significance of Ashura

Ashura holds great importance for Muslims because of the events associated with this day. In Islamic history, several pivotal events took place on the 10th of Muharram that shaped the course of the faith. For instance, it was on Ashura that the Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny, and their safe passage through the Red Sea is commemorated by fasting on this day.

Additionally, the day is particularly significant because of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This tragic event is a central moment in Islamic history, especially for the Shi’a Muslim community, and fasting on Ashura is a means of honoring and remembering the sacrifice made by Imam Husayn and his companions.

However, the fasting of Ashura also serves as a means of spiritual reflection, drawing Muslims closer to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) by seeking forgiveness, purifying the soul, and engaging in acts of devotion.

The Fasting of Ashura: Quranic and Hadith References

The fasting of Ashura is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, and both the Quran and Hadith provide guidance on the practice and significance of this fast.

The Quranic Perspective on Ashura

While the Quran does not explicitly mention fasting on Ashura, it provides the broader context for the significance of fasting in Islam. The Quran encourages believers to fast, especially during the month of Ramadan, but voluntary fasts such as the fast of Ashura are also praised.

Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) says in the Quran:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)

“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.”

Although this verse specifically refers to the fasting in Ramadan, it reflects the overarching principle of fasting as a means of attaining taqwa (God-consciousness) and spiritual purification. Fasting on Ashura is a voluntary act that helps Muslims gain closeness to Allah and attain righteousness, similar to the fasting during the blessed month of Ramadan.

The Hadith on the Fasting of Ashura

The significance of fasting on Ashura is well-established in the Hadith literature. The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) observed fasting on the 10th of Muharram and encouraged others to do the same. Several Hadiths provide details about the fasting of Ashura, its rewards, and its historical background.

The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

“صَامَ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 2009)

“He fasted the day of Ashura and ordered others to fast it.”

This Hadith shows the importance of fasting on the 10th of Muharram, as the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) not only fasted on this day himself but also commanded his companions to fast as well. The fast of Ashura is considered a Sunnah (a recommended practice), and it is an opportunity for Muslims to follow the example of the Prophet.

The Rewards of Fasting on Ashura

The rewards for fasting on Ashura are immense. One of the key benefits mentioned in the Hadith is the forgiveness of sins. The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

“صِيَامُ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ أَحْتَسِبُ عَلَى اللَّهِ أَنْ يُكَفِّرَ السَّنَةَ الَّتِي قَبْلَهُ.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1162)

“Fasting on the day of Ashura, I hope, will be an expiation for the year that has passed.”

This Hadith emphasizes the great reward associated with fasting on Ashura. Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) grants forgiveness for the minor sins committed in the past year, offering a fresh start for the believer. This is one of the most compelling reasons for Muslims to fast on Ashura, as it provides an opportunity for spiritual cleansing and renewal.

The Significance of Fasting on Ashura for Muslims

Fasting on Ashura has multiple dimensions, each reflecting a deep connection to Islamic history, worship, and spirituality. Here are some key aspects of its significance:

Gratitude for Allah’s Mercy

Fasting on Ashura allows Muslims to express gratitude for the many blessings and mercies that Allah has bestowed upon them. The day of Ashura is connected to several historical events in which Allah saved His chosen servants from harm. One of the most well-known events is the salvation of the Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh.

The Quran recounts this event in Surah Al-Baqarah:

وَإِذْ فَرَقْنَا بِكُمُ الْبَحْرَ فَأَنجَيْنَاكُمْ وَأَغْرَقْنَا فِرْعَوْنَ وَأَنْتُمْ تَنظُرُونَ
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:50)

“And [recall] when We parted the sea for you, and We saved you and drowned Pharaoh’s people while you were looking on.”

Fasting on Ashura is a way for Muslims to remember this moment of divine intervention and reflect on the mercy of Allah in their own lives.

An Opportunity for Reflection and Repentance

Ashura provides an opportunity for deep reflection on one’s life, actions, and relationship with Allah. Muslims use this day to seek forgiveness for their sins and to renew their commitment to righteousness. The fast allows them to purify their hearts and minds, making it a powerful act of repentance.

Connecting with the Martyrdom of Imam Husayn

The fast of Ashura holds particular importance for Shi’a Muslims due to the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Imam Husayn’s sacrifice is seen as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a commitment to justice, truth, and righteousness.

While the Sunni and Shi’a perspectives on the fast of Ashura differ slightly, both communities recognize its importance as a day of mourning and remembrance for the sacrifices made by Imam Husayn and his companions. The act of fasting is a means of honoring Imam Husayn’s legacy and reflecting on the values of sacrifice, justice, and standing up for what is right.

A Day of Charity and Acts of Kindness

Ashura is also a day when Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and kindness. The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) was known for his generosity, and fasting on Ashura is a time to follow his example by helping those in need, whether through financial donations or other forms of assistance. Acts of charity increase the rewards of fasting and further purify the soul.

The Sunnah of Fasting on Ashura

The fast of Ashura is a highly recommended Sunnah, and Muslims are encouraged to observe it as part of their worship. However, while fasting on Ashura is highly beneficial, there are additional practices that can be observed alongside the fast.

Fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram

It is reported in Hadith that the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) recommended fasting not only on the 10th of Muharram but also on the 9th. This was to distinguish the Islamic practice of fasting from the Jewish tradition, which also observed fasting on the 10th of Muharram. The Prophet said:

“لَئِنْ عِشْتُ إِلَى قَابِلٍ لَأَصُومَنَّ التَّاسِعَ.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1134)

“If I live until the next year, I will fast the ninth [of Muharram].”

Fasting both the 9th and 10th of Muharram enhances the reward and further emphasizes the uniqueness of the Islamic fast.

Giving Charity on Ashura

The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) also encouraged Muslims to give charity, especially on Ashura. This act of charity is a way of spreading kindness and mercy, and it carries great rewards.

Conclusion

The fast of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, is a significant day in Islam, offering Muslims the opportunity to seek forgiveness, express gratitude for Allah’s mercy, and reflect on the sacrifices made by key figures in Islamic history. By fasting on Ashura, Muslims follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), gaining spiritual benefits and drawing closer to Allah.

In the light of both Quranic teachings and the Hadith, the fast of Ashura is not only a time for worship but also a time for reflection, charity, and deepening one’s connection with Allah. Whether fasting on the 9th and 10th or simply the 10th of Muharram, this day provides Muslims with a valuable opportunity to purify their hearts, seek forgiveness, and remember the lessons of history that continue to shape their faith today.

May Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) accept our fasts, grant us forgiveness, and make the day of Ashura a source of spiritual growth for all of us.