Ashura Special

Fasting on Ashura

One day of fasting. A year of forgiveness by the mercy of Allah.

What is Ashura?

Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is among the most virtuous days of the year and is especially known for the Sunnah of fasting.

The Reward of Fasting Ashura

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

"I hope from Allah that fasting the Day of Ashura will expiate the sins of the previous year."

Scholars explain that this refers to minor sins. Major sins require sincere repentance (tawbah).

This makes Ashura one of the greatest opportunities of the year for forgiveness and spiritual renewal.

Why Do Muslims Fast on Ashura?

When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ arrived in Madinah, he found that the Jews were fasting on Ashura.

They explained that it was the day Allah saved Musa (as) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh.

The Prophet ﷺ replied:

"We have more right to Musa than you."

He then fasted on that day and encouraged Muslims to fast as well.

Which Days Should I Fast?

Best Option Fast the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

Second Option Fast the 10th and 11th of Muharram.

Minimum Fast the 10th of Muharram only.

The scholars recommend combining Ashura with another day to distinguish the Muslim fast.

Benefits of Fasting Ashura

Forgiveness A means for expiation of previous minor sins.

Following the Sunnah Reviving a beloved practice of the Prophet ﷺ.

Gratitude Following the example of Musa (as) in thanking Allah.

Self Discipline Training the soul through worship.

Spiritual Renewal Starting the new year with obedience.

Closer to Allah Every act of worship brings the servant nearer to Allah.

Ashura Reflection

Ashura reminds us that Allah saved Musa (as) when all worldly means seemed impossible.

The sea was in front of him. Pharaoh was behind him. Yet Allah opened a way where none existed.

Whatever difficulty you are facing today, remember that Allah is capable of opening doors you cannot yet see.

Related Ashura Resources

What is Ashura? Ashura Night Duʿāʾ Virtues of Muharram Ashura Hub

Fasting the 9th, 10th, and 11th of Muharram

The Prophet ﷺ said that if he lived until the following year, he would fast the 9th of Muharram as well. However, he passed away before the next year arrived.

Because the Prophet ﷺ intended to fast the 9th along with the 10th, fasting the 9th of Muharram is also considered Sunnah.

This is why Muslims are encouraged to fast both:

9th Muharram — Tāsūʿāʾ
10th Muharram — ʿĀshūrāʾ

If someone is unable to fast on the 9th, then fasting the 10th and 11th of Muharram is also recommended by scholars.

Some scholars also mention that even if a person fasts the 9th and 10th, fasting the 11th may also be virtuous.

Reference mentioned: Muslim, Mirqāt, and Fatḥ al-Muʿīn.