About Ashura

10th of Muharram ('Āshūrā')

The 10th of Muharram ('Āshūrā') is one of the most significant voluntary fasting days in the Islamic year. It carries a rich history connecting Muslims to Prophet Mūsā (Moses عليه السلام) and the Children of Israel, and it was among the most significant fasts before Ramadan was made obligatory.

Fasting it expiates an entire year of minor sins, and the Prophet ﷺ intended to distinguish Muslim practice by also fasting the 9th.

Significance & benefits

Historical Significance

When the Prophet ﷺ arrived in Madinah and found the Jews fasting on 'Āshūrā', he asked why. They said: "This is the day on which Allah saved Mūsā and drowned Pharaoh, so Mūsā fasted it out of gratitude." The Prophet ﷺ said: "We have more right to Mūsā than you," and he fasted it and commanded the Muslims to fast it (Bukhari 2004, Muslim 1130).

The Reward

The Prophet ﷺ said: "Fasting the Day of 'Āshūrā' expiates the sins of the previous year" (Muslim 1162). Scholars explain this refers to minor sins; major sins require sincere repentance (tawbah) alongside.

The Best Month for Voluntary Fasting

The Prophet ﷺ said: "The best fasting after Ramadan is in the month of Allah, Muharram" (Muslim 1163). 'Āshūrā' falls in this blessed month, adding another layer of virtue.

Muharram: A Sacred Month

Muharram is one of the four sacred months (al-ashhur al-hurum). Voluntary fasting is especially encouraged throughout this month, with 'Āshūrā' being its pinnacle.

Distinguishing from Others

The Prophet ﷺ said: "If I live until next year, I will fast the 9th of Muharram [with the 10th]" — intending to differ from the Jewish practice by adding a day (Muslim 1134). He thus encouraged Muslims to fast either the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th.

How to perform / practice

Three Levels of Fasting

  1. Most complete and recommended: Fast the 9th, 10th, and 11th of Muharram.
  2. Better: Fast the 9th and 10th together — distinguishing from those who only fast the 10th.
  3. Minimum: Fast the 10th only — this is still valid and carries the full stated reward of expiation.

Why Add the 9th or 11th?

Ibn 'Abbās said: "Differ from the Jews — fast a day before it or a day after it [in addition to the 10th]" (Ahmad 2154). The basis is the intention the Prophet ﷺ expressed before he passed away (Muslim 1134).

Practical Steps

  1. Make intention (niyyah) the night before each day of fast.
  2. Fast from Fajr to Maghrib, abstaining from food, drink, and intimacy.
  3. Break the fast at Maghrib with dates and water.
  4. Increase dhikr, istighfar, and optional prayers throughout Muharram.

Important Notes

  • This fast is voluntary — no makeup is required if missed.
  • Prioritize any outstanding Ramadan make-ups before fasting 'Āshūrā'.
  • If unsure of the exact Hijri date, check a reliable Islamic calendar or app.

References