Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Muslims start their new year with the month of Muharram. Among all the months, Muharram is the one that has been given importance since the creation of this Universe. Many historical and unforgettable events happened this month. From the repentance of Hazrat Adam (RA) to the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), this month has so much to teach us.

HISTORY OF ASHURA

The 10th of Muharram which is also called ASHURA (derived from the Arabic word Ashura meaning ten) is the day when Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) sacrificed his life for the sake of Islam. He set the example for the whole world that Islam should be the priority for every Muslim. He did not care about the power of the superior he chose the right path of Islam and did not accept the unjust power Of Yazid. Imam Hussain (RA) with his sacrifice rose as a hero who is remembered today and will be remembered always whereas Yazid still cursed by all the Muslims.

ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT EVENT HAPPENS ON THE 10TH OF MUHARRAM

Many other historic events happened on this day of Muharram which are as follows:

  • Allah bestowed Hazrat Musa (AS) the miracle of splitting the Red Sea, saved him with his people, and flooded the Pharaoh and his soldiers.
  • ALLAH (SWT) accepted the repentance of Hazrat Adam (AS) on this day
  • Hazrat Yousuf (AS) got out of the belly of fish.
  • Hazrat Adam (AS) and Bibi Hawa (AS) met on 10Th of Muharram in Arafat.
  • Hazrat Isa (AS) was born on the day of Ashura and ascended on the day of Ashura as well.
  • Hazrat Nuh (AS) arc landed on Mount Judi.

FASTING ON THE DAY OF ASHURA

Fasting on 10th of Muharram, is a great way of pleasing ALLAH (SWT) and attaining rewards and blessings. This day has been recognized and given high status in Islam due to many reasons. Muslims around the world observe this day by doing extra acts of worship like fasting, charity, and performing prayers other than obligatory prayers.

Ashura fasting has been given so much importance in the religion Islam because this is the day when ALLAH (SWT) saved Hazrat Moosa (AS) and his followers from the tyranny of Pharaoh, and the Red Sea was parted for their escape and Imam Hussain was also martyred on this day. The historical context of Ashura makes it a revered day for Muslims to observe fasting and reflect on the past.

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) mentioned the benefit of fasting on Ashura as:

“Fast the day of Ashura, for indeed I anticipate that Allah will forgive (the sins of) the year before it.” (Sahih Muslim)

In another hadith, it is reported that the Prophet (SAW) was asked about the significance of fasting on Ashura.

 He replied

“It is a day Allah has honored. The fast on this day was not obligatory upon you, but I fasted it, and he who fasts it after me will be awarded for it because it is a day of forgiveness of sins.” (Sunan Abi Dawud)

DISTINCTION FROM JEWISH PRACTICE

The Jews used to fast on 10th of Muharram as ALLAH (SWT) saved Hazrat Musa (AS) and the children of Israel from the Tyranny of the Firoun. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) asked the Muslims to fast on two days together either 9th or 10th, or 10th or 11th of Muharram to differ from the fasting practice of Jews.

There is a Hadith of the Holy Prophet (PBUH):

“Fast on the Day of Ashura and be different from the Jews by fasting a day before or a day after it”. (Musnad Ahmad)

Also, the last messenger of ALLAH said:

“If I live to see the next year if ALLAH wills we will fast on the 9th day too (alongside the 10th Muharram)”

But the Holy Prophet (PBUH) passed away before the next year come (Muslim).

SPIRITUAL REWARDS AND ATONEMENT OF FASTING ON ASHURA

There are a tones of benefits and rewards to fasting on the Day of Ashura. Muslims all over the world fast on Ashura to uphold the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and to express gratitude to Allah. Fasting on Ashura comes with a lot of benefits. Among them are:

FORGIVENESS FOR MISTAKES

Fasting on Ashura can help erase the little mistakes we make throughout the year. Fasting on this day gives us the chance to erase our previous sins and start the New Year with purity.

THANKFULNESS AND REFLECTION

On Ashura, we fast to give thanks to Allah for all the blessings in our lives and to reflect on our behavior. The stories of Prophet Musa (AS), the Israelites, and Imam Hussain (RA)’s martyrdom are stories we remember and draw important lessons from.

FOLLOWING THE PROPHET’S TRADITION

Fasting on Ashura is also done for following the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Fasting two days together also sets us apart from the fasting customs of the Jewish community.

PROTECTION FROM HARDSHIP

Fasting on Ashura holds deep significance for Muslims, as it is a time of spiritual growth and self-improvement. By observing this fast, we not only seek forgiveness and gratitude but also honor the teachings of the Prophet (SAW) and find solace in Allah’s protection. It’s a beautiful tradition that brings believers closer to their faith and their Creator.

CONCLUSION

Fasting on Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram carries profound lessons and spiritual significance for Muslims. Beyond historical events and religious observance, this practice imparts valuable lessons that can positively impact individuals and society as a whole.

Fasting on Ashura teaches us self-discipline and self-control. We understand the meaning of patience and sacrifice by fasting on this day. Additionally, we get to take a new start by asking forgiveness from ALLAH (SWT) on this day as the chances of getting forgiveness are more on this day.

Different sects observe this day differently but what is important is to maintain the respect of our beloved Prophets, their companions, and their family members who spent their whole life for the betterment of the Islamic community and to expand Islam as a complete religion.