Don’t Miss Ashura: The Powerful Fast Beloved by the Prophet ﷺ

Among the blessed days in the Islamic calendar, the Day of Ashura holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims. Observed on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic year, Ashura is a day associated with gratitude, worship, and remembrance of Allah’s mercy. One of the most recommended acts of worship on this day is fasting, a practice encouraged by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and observed by Muslims around the world.

What Is Ashura?

Ashura falls on the tenth day of Muharram, one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Qur’an. The day carries historical and spiritual significance, particularly because it commemorates the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) عليه السلام and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh.

When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ arrived in Madinah, he found the Jewish community fasting on this day. Upon learning the reason, he said:

“We have more right to Musa than they do.”

He then fasted on Ashura and encouraged his followers to fast as well.

The Reward of Fasting on Ashura

Fasting on Ashura is a highly recommended Sunnah. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted its immense spiritual benefit when he said:

“Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope from Allah, expiates the sins of the previous year.”

This means that fasting on this blessed day serves as a means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness for minor sins committed during the preceding year. It is a remarkable opportunity for believers to renew their faith and draw closer to their Creator.

How Should Muslims Fast on Ashura?

To distinguish the Islamic practice from that of other communities, the Prophet ﷺ expressed his intention to fast an additional day alongside Ashura. Scholars therefore recommend one of the following options:

1. Fasting the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
2. Fasting the 10th and 11th of Muharram.
3. Fasting all three days: the 9th, 10th, and 11th of Muharram.

While fasting only on the 10th is valid and rewarding, combining it with another day is considered more virtuous.

Lessons from Ashura

The Day of Ashura offers many valuable lessons for Muslims:

Gratitude to Allah

The fasting of Ashura reminds believers to thank Allah for His countless blessings and His protection of the righteous.

Trust in Allah

The story of Prophet Musa عليه السلام demonstrates that Allah’s help comes to those who remain steadfast and place their trust in Him, even during the most difficult circumstances.

Seeking Forgiveness

Ashura provides an annual opportunity to seek Allah’s mercy and purification through fasting and sincere repentance.

Following the Sunnah

Observing the fast of Ashura allows Muslims to revive an important Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and strengthen their connection to his teachings.

-Reviewed by  Imam Mufti Mohammad Khalid