The Day of 'Āshūrā'
The 10th of Muharram, known as 'Āshūrā', is a day of great significance in Islamic history and holds immense reward for those who fast.
Historical Significance
This is the day Allah saved Prophet Mūsā (Moses) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. When the Prophet ﷺ came to Madinah and found the Jews fasting this day, he said: 'We have more right to Mūsā than you,' so he fasted it and commanded the Muslims to fast it (Bukhari 2004, Muslim 1130).
The Reward of Fasting 'Āshūrā'
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'Fasting the Day of 'Āshūrā' expiates the sins of the previous year' (Muslim 1162). This means it atones for minor sins, not major ones, which require sincere repentance.
The Sunnah Method of Fasting:
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'If I live until next year, I will certainly fast the ninth day (along with the tenth)' (Muslim 1134). Shortly after, he passed away, so the recommended practice is:
Three Levels:
1. Most Complete: Fast the 9th, 10th, and 11th (three days)
2. Better: Fast the 9th and 10th (two days)
3. Minimum: Fast only the 10th
Why Add the 9th or 11th?
Ibn 'Abbās رضي الله عنهما said: 'Fast the Day of 'Āshūrā' and differ from the Jews by fasting a day before it or a day after it' (Ahmad 2154). This distinguishes the Muslim practice from that of the Jews and People of the Book.
Important Reminders:
• The reward applies even if you only fast the 10th
• Adding the 9th is following the Prophet's ﷺ final intention
• Adding the 11th is also good to ensure you don't miss it
• The fasting expiates minor sins; major sins require repentance
Month of Muharram
Muharram is one of the four sacred months. The Prophet ﷺ said: 'The best fasting after Ramadan is in the month of Allah, Muharram' (Muslim 1163). So increasing voluntary fasts throughout Muharram is highly recommended.
Reference: https://islamqa.info/en/answers/21775