The Day of Ashura, falling on the 10th of Muharram, is one of the most significant days in the Islamic calendar. Fasting on this day holds immense virtue, and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly encouraged it. This article explores the merits, rules, and recommended practices of fasting on Ashura, drawing from authentic hadiths and scholarly insights.
The Virtues of Fasting on Ashura
Fasting on Ashura is a highly meritorious act that expiates sins and brings one closer to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized its importance and made it a practice himself.
Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: « The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) fasted on the Day of ‘Āshūrā’, and ordered Muslims to fast on it. » This hadith, narrated by Bukhari and Muslim, shows that fasting on this day was an established Sunnah, both in action and command.
Moreover, the month of Muharram itself is highly blessed. Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: « The most excellent fast after Ramadan is Allah’s month, Muharram, and the most excellent prayer after what is prescribed is prayer during the night. » Thus, fasting on Ashura, being in Muharram, is among the best voluntary fasts.
The expiation of sins is a key virtue. According to scholars, fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year. This is based on authentic narrations, though not explicitly in the provided hadiths, the general virtue is well-established.
Why Ashura is Special
Ashura marks the day when Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. The Prophet ﷺ said, « We have more right to Musa than you, » so he fasted and ordered the Muslims to fast. This connection to prophetic history adds to its significance.
Recommended Practices for Ashura
To maximize the rewards of Ashura, certain practices are recommended based on the Sunnah.
The most important practice is fasting. While fasting on the 10th alone is acceptable, it is highly recommended to also fast on the 9th (Tasua) or the 11th to differentiate from the Jews, who fast only on the 10th. ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: « If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day. » This shows the Prophet’s intention to add the 9th, and scholars recommend fasting either the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th.
Additionally, increasing general acts of worship such as prayer, charity, and recitation of the Quran is beneficial. The night preceding Ashura is also a time for increased devotion.
Fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th
The preferred method is to fast on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram. If unable, fasting on the 10th and 11th is also acceptable. Fasting only on the 10th is permissible but missing the additional day reduces the reward and the distinction from other communities.
Rules and Guidelines for Fasting on Ashura
Fasting on Ashura follows the same general rules as other voluntary fasts. It begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib). The intention (niyyah) should be made before dawn, though for voluntary fasts, it can be made even after dawn if nothing has been consumed.
There is no specific prayer or ritual unique to Ashura. However, increasing supplication (dua) and seeking forgiveness is encouraged. The day is not a day of mourning or celebration; rather, it is a day of gratitude and worship.
It is important to note that some innovations have crept into the practice of Ashura, such as mourning rituals or specific foods. Muslims should adhere to the authentic Sunnah and avoid innovations.
Who Should Fast?
Fasting on Ashura is recommended for all capable Muslims. It is not obligatory. Those who are ill, traveling, or have valid excuses are not required to fast, and they can make up missed Ramadan fasts instead. The Quran says: « (Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. » This applies to Ramadan, but the principle of ease is general.
Common Misconceptions about Ashura
Several misconceptions surround Ashura. Some believe it is a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husayn, but while his death is tragic, the day itself is not a day of mourning in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ fasted on Ashura before the event of Karbala, and he commanded fasting as an expression of gratitude to Allah.
Another misconception is that Ashura has special rituals like applying kohl or taking a bath. These are not from the Sunnah and should be avoided. The best way to observe Ashura is through fasting and increased worship.
Lastly, some think that fasting on Ashura alone expiates all sins, but it only expiates minor sins, not major sins, which require sincere repentance and making amends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Ashura in Islam?
Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, is a blessed day when Allah saved Prophet Musa and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted on this day and encouraged Muslims to fast as well.
Is fasting on Ashura obligatory?
No, fasting on Ashura is highly recommended (mustahabb) but not obligatory. It is a voluntary act of worship with great rewards.
Should I fast on the 9th and 10th or just the 10th?
It is recommended to fast on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram to differentiate from the Jews. If unable, fasting on the 10th and 11th is also acceptable. Fasting only on the 10th is permissible but less reward.
Does fasting on Ashura expiate sins?
Yes, according to authentic hadiths, fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year, provided they are minor sins. Major sins require sincere repentance.
Can I fast on Ashura if I have missed Ramadan fasts?
It is better to make up missed Ramadan fasts first, but you can also fast on Ashura as a voluntary fast. However, fulfilling obligatory fasts takes priority.
Are there any special prayers or rituals for Ashura?
No, there are no specific prayers or rituals for Ashura. The recommended acts are fasting, increasing dua, charity, and reciting Quran. Avoid innovations.
What if I cannot fast on Ashura due to illness?
If you are ill or have a valid excuse, you are not required to fast. You can still gain reward by engaging in other acts of worship like dhikr and charity.
Is Ashura a day of mourning for Imam Husayn?
While the martyrdom of Imam Husayn is a tragic event, Ashura itself is not a day of mourning in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ fasted on this day as a sign of gratitude, and Muslims should follow the Sunnah.
Fasting on Ashura is a beautiful Sunnah that brings immense blessings and forgiveness. By observing it with the correct intentions and practices, we draw closer to Allah and revive a prophetic tradition. May Allah accept our fasts and grant us the ability to follow the Sunnah. For more guidance on fasting and other acts of worship, use the Al Muslim Plus app to track your fasts and access authentic Islamic content.
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Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 184
- Hadith n°10121 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6217 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11261 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith