Fasting on the Day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, holds a special place in Islamic spirituality. This voluntary fast is deeply rooted in prophetic tradition and carries immense rewards. In this article, we explore the significance of Ashura, its historical background, the rulings and recommended practices, and how you can make the most of this blessed day.
The Virtue of Fasting in Muharram
The month of Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, and fasting during this month is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad 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 highlights the special status of Muharram, encouraging believers to increase their voluntary fasts, especially on Ashura.
Fasting is an act of worship that brings us closer to Allah. 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). This verse reminds us that fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink but also about cultivating taqwa (God-consciousness) and self-discipline. The fast of Ashura, though voluntary, is a powerful means to attain these spiritual benefits.
Why Muharram is Called the Month of Allah
In the hadith mentioned, Muharram is referred to as « the month of Allah, » which indicates its great honor. Scholars explain that attributing the month to Allah signifies that it is free from any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah) and that its virtues are immense. Fasting in this month, especially on Ashura, is a way to seek Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness.
The Historical Significance of Ashura
The Day of Ashura has a rich history that predates Islam. According to authentic narrations, when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ migrated to Medina, he found the Jews fasting on the 10th of Muharram, commemorating 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, » and he fasted on that day and commanded the Muslims to fast as well. (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim)
This event underscores the continuity of monotheistic traditions and the unity of the prophetic message. Fasting on Ashura is a way to honor Prophet Musa and express gratitude to Allah for His deliverance. It also serves as a reminder of Allah’s power and mercy, as He saved the believers from oppression.
The Martyrdom of Imam Husayn
While Ashura is also associated with the tragic martyrdom of Imam Husayn (the grandson of the Prophet ﷺ) in the Battle of Karbala, this event is not the reason for the fast. The fast was established earlier in Islam. Muslims remember the sacrifice of Imam Husayn as a lesson in standing against injustice, but the fast itself remains a sunnah based on the prophetic tradition.
Rewards and Blessings of Fasting on Ashura
Fasting on Ashura carries immense rewards. The Prophet ﷺ said: « Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope, will expiate the sins of the previous year. » (Narrated by Muslim) This great reward encourages believers to seize this opportunity for spiritual cleansing. Additionally, the Prophet ﷺ expressed his desire to fast on the 9th as well, saying: « If I were to live till next year, I would definitely fast the ninth day. » (Narrated by Muslim) This indicates the recommended practice of fasting on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram to distinguish from the Jews who only fasted on the 10th.
The general virtue of fasting is beautifully described in a hadith qudsi: « Allah said: All the deeds of the son of Adam are for himself except for fasting, as it is, indeed, for Me, and I give reward for it… » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). This shows the unique status of fasting and the direct reward from Allah, which is beyond measure.
How to Observe Ashura According to the Sunnah
The recommended way to observe Ashura is to fast on the 10th of Muharram, and it is better to also fast on the 9th (Tasu’a) or the 11th to be safe. One should intend the fast for the sake of Allah, seeking His reward. It is also a good opportunity to increase in charity, supplication, and recitation of the Quran. You can use the Quran reading tool on Al Muslim Plus to recite and reflect on the verses of the day.
Practical Tips for Fasting on Ashura
To make the most of Ashura, plan your day with worship. Wake up for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) with the intention of fasting. During the day, engage in dhikr, read Quran, and make dua. The Prophet ﷺ said: « The fasting person will rejoice twice: when he breaks his fast, he rejoices, and when he meets his Lord, he rejoices at his fast. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) This joy is a sign of the spiritual fulfillment gained through fasting.
You can also use the Dhikr counter (Tasbeeh) to keep track of your glorifications and supplications. Remember that the essence of fasting is to attain piety and closeness to Allah, so focus on the quality of your worship rather than just the quantity.
Common Questions About Ashura Fasting
Many Muslims have questions about the details of fasting on Ashura. Below we address some frequently asked questions to help you observe this blessed day correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fasting on Ashura obligatory?
No, fasting on Ashura is not obligatory; it is a highly recommended sunnah (voluntary) fast. The Prophet ﷺ fasted it and encouraged others to do so, but it is not compulsory.
What is the reward for fasting on Ashura?
The Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year. This is a great blessing from Allah, but it applies to minor sins, not major sins, which require sincere repentance.
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, as the Prophet ﷺ intended to do so. Fasting on the 9th distinguishes Muslims from the Jews who only fasted on the 10th. If you cannot fast both, fasting only the 10th is still meritorious.
Can I fast Ashura if I have missed days from Ramadan?
Yes, you can fast Ashura even if you have missed Ramadan fasts. However, it is better to make up the missed obligatory fasts first, as they are a debt to Allah. You can still earn the reward of Ashura while intending to make up Ramadan.
What if I am unable to fast due to health reasons?
If you are ill or have a valid excuse, you are not required to fast. You can still engage in other acts of worship on Ashura, such as charity, dhikr, and reading Quran. The intention and love for the day are also rewarded.
Is there a special prayer for Ashura?
There is no specific prayer prescribed for Ashura. However, increasing voluntary prayers, especially at night, is recommended. The Prophet ﷺ said that the best prayer after the obligatory ones is night prayer (tahajjud).
What should I eat for iftar on Ashura?
There is no specific food prescribed for iftar on Ashura. It is recommended to break the fast with dates and water, following the sunnah, and to avoid extravagance. The focus should be on gratitude and supplication.
How can I prepare spiritually for Ashura?
Prepare by learning about the significance of the day, making sincere repentance, and setting intentions for worship. Use the supplications (duas) on Al Muslim Plus to enrich your spiritual practice.
Fasting on Ashura is a beautiful sunnah that connects us to the prophets and brings immense spiritual rewards. By observing this fast with sincerity and following the prophetic guidance, we can attain forgiveness and draw closer to Allah. Make the most of this blessed day by using the tools available on Al Muslim Plus to enhance your worship. Download the app today and start your journey of spiritual growth.
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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°6217 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°3546 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11261 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith