The Day of Ashura: The 10th of Muharram and Its Significance

The Day of Ashura, falling on the 10th of Muharram (the first month of the Islamic calendar), holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. This day commemorates pivotal moments in Islamic and prophetic history, and carries special recommendations for worship and fasting.

What is Ashura?

Ashura literally means "tenth" in Arabic, referring to the 10th day of Muharram. This day has been marked as significant long before the advent of Islam—the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) found that the people of Madinah, including the Jewish community, were fasting on this day when he arrived after the Hijra.

When asked about their fasting, they explained it was to commemorate the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "We are closer to Musa than you," and he fasted and encouraged the Muslims to fast.

Historical Events Associated with Ashura

Islamic tradition recounts several significant events believed to have occurred on this day:

• Allah saved Prophet Musa and the Israelites from Pharaoh, who drowned in the Red Sea
• Prophet Nuh's (Noah's) Ark came to rest on Mount Judi after the great flood
• Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was saved from the fire of Nimrod
• Prophet Yunus (Jonah) was released from the belly of the whale
• Prophet Ayyub (Job) was cured of his illness

These events demonstrate Allah's mercy and the salvation He grants to His believers in times of trial.

The Virtue of Fasting on Ashura

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said about fasting on Ashura:

"Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it." (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith highlights the tremendous reward—an entire year's minor sins forgiven for fasting just one day.

The Recommended Way to Fast

To distinguish Muslim practice from others, the Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended fasting the 9th of Muharram along with the 10th:

"If I live until next year, I will fast the ninth day (along with the tenth)." (Sahih Muslim)

Therefore, the recommended practice is to fast on:

• The 9th and 10th of Muharram (most recommended)
• Or the 10th and 11th of Muharram (alternative)
• Or the 10th alone (still virtuous)

How UK Muslims Observe Ashura

For Muslims in the United Kingdom, observing Ashura involves:

1. Fasting

Many Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. Given the UK's varying daylight hours throughout the year, fasting times change significantly—from very short winter fasts to long summer ones.

2. Increased Worship

The Day of Ashura is a time for:

• Extra prayers and dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
• Reading and reflecting on the Quran
• Making dua (supplication)
• Seeking forgiveness for past sins

3. Charity and Generosity

Being generous to one's family on Ashura is recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"Whoever is generous to his family on the Day of Ashura, Allah will be generous to him for the rest of the year."

4. Community Gatherings

Some mosques in the UK hold special lectures and programs explaining the significance of Ashura and the month of Muharram.

Finding Mosques for Ashura Programs

If you're looking for a mosque in the UK that holds Ashura programs, check our mosque directory to find a masjid near you. Many mosques announce special programs during Muharram.

Common Questions About Ashura

Is fasting on Ashura obligatory?

No, fasting on Ashura is highly recommended (Sunnah) but not obligatory. The only obligatory fasting is during Ramadan.

Can I fast only on the 10th?

Yes, you can fast only on the 10th, though adding the 9th or 11th is more preferred to follow the Prophetic recommendation.

What if Ashura falls on a Saturday?

Unlike the prohibition of singling out Friday for fasting, scholars generally permit fasting on Ashura even if it falls on a Saturday, as you are fasting for the specific occasion, not the day of the week.

How do I know when Ashura is?

Ashura falls on the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar. Check our Islamic Lunar Calendar for the current date.

Reflecting on the Lessons of Ashura

The Day of Ashura reminds us of:

1. Allah's power to save believers from seemingly impossible situations
2. The importance of patience in times of trial
3. Gratitude for the guidance and mercy Allah has bestowed upon us
4. The unity of prophetic teachings from Adam to Muhammad (peace be upon them all)

As we observe this blessed day, let us renew our commitment to faith, increase our worship, and express gratitude for the countless blessings in our lives.

Looking for a mosque to attend special Muharram programs? Browse our UK Mosque Directory to find a masjid near you.