The month of Muharram holds a special place in Islam. It is one of the four sacred months, and within it lies the blessed day of Ashura, the 10th day. Fasting during this month, especially on Ashura, carries immense rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized its significance, and Muslims around the world seek to gain Allah’s blessings through these voluntary fasts. In this article, we explore the virtues of fasting in Muharram and on Ashura, supported by authentic hadiths, and provide practical guidance to help you observe these blessed days.
The Virtue of Fasting in the Month of Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the four sacred months in which warfare is forbidden and good deeds are greatly rewarded. The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically highlighted the excellence of fasting during this month. 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. » (Narrated by Muslim) This hadith clearly indicates that fasting in Muharram is the best voluntary fasting one can observe after the obligatory fasts of Ramadan. The phrase « Allah’s month » emphasizes the sanctity and blessing of this month. While all months belong to Allah, singling out Muharram in this manner draws attention to its special status. Scholars explain that the reward for good deeds, including fasting, is multiplied during sacred times. Therefore, fasting as much as possible in Muharram is a means to draw closer to Allah and earn immense rewards.
Why Muharram is Called the Month of Allah
The Prophet (ﷺ) referred to Muharram as « the month of Allah, » a unique designation not given to other months. This indicates the great honor and blessing of this month. It is a time when Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and good deeds. Fasting is one of the best acts of worship, as it is a private act between the servant and Allah, and its reward is multiplied in this sacred month. By fasting in Muharram, believers can earn forgiveness for their sins and elevate their spiritual status.
How Many Days Should One Fast in Muharram?
There is no fixed number of days for fasting in Muharram, but it is recommended to fast as much as possible, especially on the 9th and 10th (Ashura) or the 10th and 11th. Some scholars recommend fasting on the 10th along with a day before or after to distinguish from the Jewish practice. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: « If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day. » (Narrated by Muslim) This shows the desirability of fasting on the 9th of Muharram as well. Fasting on the day of Ashura alone is also acceptable, but it is better to add another day.
The Day of Ashura: Its Significance and Fasting
Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram. Its significance predates Islam, as it was a day of fasting for the Quraysh and the Jews. When the Prophet (ﷺ) arrived in Medina, he found the Jews fasting on Ashura in commemoration of Allah saving Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and the Israelites from Pharaoh. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: « We are more entitled to Moses than you, » and he fasted that day and ordered the Muslims to fast. (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) This hadith establishes the obligation of fasting on Ashura at that time, but later it became a recommended (mustahabb) fast after Ramadan was prescribed. Fasting on Ashura is a confirmed Sunnah, and it is believed to expiate the sins of the previous year. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: « Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate thereby for the sins of the past year. » (Narrated by Muslim) Thus, it is a golden opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness and start the year with a clean slate.
The Historical Background of Ashura
Ashura marks the day when Allah saved Prophet Moses and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny. The Jews fasted on this day in gratitude. When the Prophet (ﷺ) learned of this, he affirmed that Muslims have a stronger connection to Moses and should also fast. This event highlights the continuity of the message of monotheism and the importance of showing gratitude to Allah through fasting. It also teaches us to respect and follow the practices of previous prophets that are in harmony with Islamic teachings.
The Virtue of Fasting on Ashura
Fasting on Ashura is highly recommended. The Prophet (ﷺ) himself fasted on this day and encouraged others to do so. The reward is immense: it is believed to expiate the sins of the past year. This does not mean major sins are forgiven without repentance, but it is a means of purification and spiritual elevation. Muslims are encouraged to fast on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th to differentiate from the Jews and to maximize the reward. As the Prophet (ﷺ) said: « If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day. »
Practical Tips for Observing the Fast of Muharram and Ashura
To make the most of these blessed days, here are some practical tips: 1) Intend to fast for the sake of Allah and seek His reward. 2) Plan your meals for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking the fast) to maintain energy. 3) Increase in supplication (dua) and remembrance of Allah, especially during the last third of the night. 4) Give charity and do good deeds, as the rewards are multiplied. 5) Avoid sins and strive to improve your character. Remember that the goal is not just to abstain from food and drink, but to attain taqwa (God-consciousness). As Allah says in the Quran: « O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint. » (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 183) Use this opportunity to strengthen your relationship with Allah and seek His forgiveness.
Making a Sincere Intention
The intention (niyyah) for voluntary fasting can be made anytime before midday, provided one has not eaten or drunk anything. It is recommended to make the intention the night before to ensure the fast is valid. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: « Whoever does not intend to fast before dawn, there is no fast for him. » (Narrated by Abu Dawood) For Ashura, one can make the intention even on the morning of the day if they have not consumed anything.
Combining Fasting with Other Acts of Worship
In addition to fasting, engage in extra prayers, recitation of the Quran, and dhikr. The night prayer (tahajjud) is especially virtuous. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: « The most excellent prayer after what is prescribed is prayer during the night. » You can also use the Al Muslim Plus app to track your prayers and fasts, and to access the Quran and duas. The app’s prayer tracker helps you stay consistent in your worship.
Common Misconceptions About Ashura
There are some misconceptions about Ashura that need clarification. First, some believe that Ashura is a day of mourning because of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him). While his death is a tragedy, the Islamic teachings emphasize that Ashura is a day of fasting and gratitude, not mourning. The Prophet (ﷺ) established fasting on this day long before the event of Karbala. Second, some think that fasting on Ashura alone is sufficient to expiate all sins, but scholars clarify that it expiates minor sins, while major sins require sincere repentance. Third, there is no special prayer or ritual exclusive to Ashura besides fasting. Avoid innovations and stick to the Sunnah.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Muharram in Islam?
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is forbidden and good deeds are greatly rewarded. It is the first month of the Islamic calendar. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that the best fast after Ramadan is in the month of Muharram.
Why do Muslims fast on Ashura?
Muslims fast on Ashura (10th of Muharram) because the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) fasted on that day and commanded Muslims to do so. It commemorates the day when Allah saved Prophet Moses and the Israelites from Pharaoh. Fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the past year.
Is it obligatory to fast on Ashura?
No, fasting on Ashura is not obligatory but highly recommended (mustahabb). It is a confirmed Sunnah. The Prophet (ﷺ) encouraged it but did not make it compulsory after Ramadan was prescribed.
Should I fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram or just the 10th?
It is recommended to fast on both the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th, to differentiate from the Jewish practice. The Prophet (ﷺ) expressed his intention to fast on the 9th if he lived until the next year. Fasting on the 10th alone is also acceptable.
What are the rewards of fasting in Muharram?
The Prophet (ﷺ) said that the best fast after Ramadan is in the month of Muharram. Additionally, fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year. These rewards are for those who fast sincerely for Allah’s sake.
Can I make up missed Ramadan fasts in Muharram?
Yes, you can make up missed Ramadan fasts during Muharram, and you will receive the reward for both the obligatory make-up and the virtue of fasting in a sacred month. However, it is better to make up missed fasts as soon as possible.
Is there any special prayer or ritual on Ashura?
No, there is no special prayer or ritual exclusive to Ashura. The main practice is fasting. Some people engage in extra acts of worship like charity and Quran recitation, but these are general recommendations, not specific to Ashura.
How can I track my fasts and prayers during Muharram?
You can use the Al Muslim Plus app, which includes a prayer tracker and a fasting log. It helps you stay consistent in your worship and earn rewards. Download it from here.
Muharram and Ashura offer a precious opportunity to earn immense rewards through fasting and good deeds. By observing the fasts of this sacred month, especially on the day of Ashura, Muslims can seek forgiveness, draw closer to Allah, and start the Islamic year with spiritual renewal. Let us make the most of these blessed days by increasing our worship, charity, and remembrance of Allah. May Allah accept our fasts and grant us His mercy. To help you stay consistent in your acts of worship, download the Al Muslim Plus app, which provides prayer times, a prayer tracker, Quran, duas, and many other tools to support your spiritual journey.
Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Baqara, verset 183
- Hadith n°10121 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11261 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°6217 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith