Significance of the day of Ashura
The significance of the day of Ashura, or the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, carries distinct importance for Sunni and Shia Muslims. Sunnis observe Ashura to commemorate the liberation of Prophet Moses and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s oppression. This day often encourages increased devotion, with many Sunnis choosing to fast for blessings. For Shias, Ashura is a day of profound grief, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet, and his companions at the Battle of Karbala. This event symbolizes sacrifice, commitment to justice, and resisting injustice. While Sunnis and Shias observe Ashura differently, it remains a significant day for both, prompting reflection on the core Islamic values of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of a just society.
What is the Day of Ashura or 10th Muharram?
Certain days in the year hold greater virtue than others, and one such day is the 10th of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura. In the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Muharram, the word Ashura, is derived from “Asharah,” which means ten in Arabic. The Day of Ashura commemorates various historical events, most notably when Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny in Egypt. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) observed the Jews fasting on this day to commemorate their deliverance and recommended that Muslims also fast. He stated, “We are closer to Musa than you are,” advising Muslims to fast on Ashura for three days (ninth, tenth, and eleventh), two days (ninth and tenth), or just on the day of Ashura itself.
Ashura, in Islam, is a solemn occasion that marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, along with his family members and companions, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
What is the day of Ashura in 2024 Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is expected to observe the Day of Ashura on Evening of Tue, Jul 16 to July 17th, 2024.
History and Significance of the Day of Ashura
The Battle of Karbala
The most significant event associated with Ashura is the Battle of Karbala, which occurred in Iraq in Muharram 61 AH. In this battle, a small army consisting of Imam Hussein’s family and companions fought against the larger army of Yazid ibn Muawiyah, the Umayyad ruler. Imam Hussein (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid due to his authoritarian rule. On the 10th of Muharram, Imam Hussein (AS) and his followers were brutally martyred. This event is significant in Islamic history as a stand against oppression, preserving the integrity of Islam. A Hadith highlights the close relationship between Imam Hussein and the Prophet (SAW): “Al-Husain is from me, and I am from Al-Husain. Allah will love the one who loves Al-Husain” (Hadith | Musnad Ahmad).
The Story of Musa
On the Day of Ashura, Allah saved Prophet Musa (AS) and Bani Israel from Pharaoh’s tyranny. Pharaoh, who declared himself a god, pursued Musa and his followers with a large army. However, Allah parted the Red Sea, allowing Musa and his followers to escape, while Pharaoh and his army were submerged. This event is commemorated in the Quran:
“Then We inspired to Moses, ‘Strike with your staff the sea,’ and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain. And We drew forward the others [i.e., the pursuers]. And We saved Moses and those with him, all together. Then We drowned the others. Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers. And indeed, your Lord – He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful” (Quran 26:63-68).
The Story of Ashura and Other Prophets
Ashura is also significant in the narratives of other prophets. For instance, some narrations state that Allah returned Prophet Nuh’s (AS) ark on Ashura to dry land after the flood.
Fasting on the Day of Ashura
What was the reason for the Prophet’s (PBUH) fast on Ashura?
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) observed fasting on Ashura as a form of gratitude for the deliverance of Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers. He prioritized fasting on this day, as mentioned in the Hadith: “I never saw the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of ‘Ashura’, and this month, meaning Ramadhan” (Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari).
What we do on the day of Ashura or 10th Muharram?
Fasting the 9th of Muharram
To distinguish Muslim practices from those of the Jews, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) recommended fasting on the 9th of Muharram and the 10th. According to the Hadith: “When the Prophet (PBUH) fasted on Ashura and told the people to fast, they said, “It is a day celebrated by Jews and Christians.” (Muslim) The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Next year, if Allah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the end of the following year, the Prophet (PBUH) had passed away.”
Fasting the 11th of Muharram
Some scholars also recommend fasting on the 11th of Muharram to catch the day of Ashura if the 9th is missed or to differentiate further from the People of the Book. Therefore, it is virtuous to fast:
- Just the day of Ashura.
- The 9th and 10th.
- The 10th and 11th.
- Or all three days: the 9th, 10th, and 11th.
Commemorating the Day of Ashura
As well as fasting, there are many other beneficial deeds you can perform during Ashura to earn great rewards. As part of these practices, people are encouraged to give Sadaqah and Zakat, increase their worship, read more Qur’an, salute the Prophet (PBUH), and offer naffal (optional) prayers. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) once said, “Whoever generously spends on his family on the day of Ashura, Allah (SWT) will be generous to him throughout the year” (Baihaqi).
Ziyarat Ashura and Other Duaas
Shia Muslims offer a salutatory prayer to Imam Hussein (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala called Ziyarat Ashura.
Giving Sadaqah or Zakat on the Day of Ashura
One of the most virtuous acts on Ashura is giving charity to those in need. This is a significant way to observe the day and earn great rewards.
Do Muslims Observe Ashura Differently?
For Shia Muslims, Ashura is marked by mourning the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) in the Battle of Karbala. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a time to mourn Imam Hussein (AS) and to commemorate the deliverance of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites from Pharaoh.
In Bangladesh, Ashura is celebrated in various ways such as in this day many islamic fairs and mahfils are held in various regions. Also, there were tazia missiles held by Shias. Some people also fast on Ashura.
Virtues of Ashura
Recommended actions for Ashura include fasting, reading the Qur’an, giving Sadaqah, and spending time with one’s family. The Prophet (SAW) emphasized the significance of fasting on Ashura: “On the authority of Abu Qatadah (RA) that the Messenger of Allah (saw), was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’, and he said, ‘It expiates [wipes out the minor sins of] the past year”. (Hadith | Muslim).
Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, making it an ideal time to establish good habits, such as regular charity, to gain blessings throughout the year.
Final Thought
The Day of Ashura is deeply significant in Islam, reflecting themes of sacrifice, resilience, and divine mercy. Whether through fasting, mourning, or celebration, Muslims around the world come together to honour this day’s rich historical and spiritual heritage. As a cornerstone of Islamic faith and practice, Ashura inspires reflection, unity, and a commitment to justice and compassion.