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The Day of Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, which is the first month of the Islamic calendar, and marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. In this month, Muslims are encouraged and advised to fast as often as they can, particularly on the Day of Ashura, known as ‘the tenth’, as well as increasing other forms of worship and good deeds. It is recommended to fast on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th days of Muharram to differentiate from the Jewish practice of only fasting on the 10th; however, fasting just on the 10th is sufficient. In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to share their blessings with the less fortunate on this blessed day.
This year, the Day of Ashura is expected to fall on 6 July 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon. This date is significant for Muslims worldwide as it marks a day of deep spiritual reflection, historical remembrance, and increased devotion.
The Day of Ashura has a profound meaning in Islam, rooted in several significant historical events. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura commemorates the day Allah (SWT) saved Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers from Pharaoh by miraculously splitting the Red Sea. This act of divine intervention is a testament to Allah’s (SWT) power and mercy, making Ashura a day of gratitude and fasting. The Day of Ashura also marks other significant events, including Prophet Yunus (AS) being released from the belly of a whale, Prophet Yusuf (AS) being freed from the well, and Prophet Isa (AS) being born.
For Shia Muslims, the Day of Ashura holds a particularly poignant significance as it commemorates the martyrdom of Hussain Ibn Ali (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the Battle of Karbala. Hussain (RA) was killed for opposing Yazid’s corrupt rule and refusing to support him. This led to Hussain (RA) leaving Madina with his family and companions and going to Makkah to avoid being followed or attacked by Yazid. However, despite Makkah being a holy land, Yazid followed Hussain (RA) with his army, which led to Hussain (RA) being forced out of Makkah and heading for Kufa, a city in Iraq. Before he could arrive, Yazid’s army surrounded Hussain (RA) and his family and companions and demanded they support his government. In refusing to do so, Yazid ordered his forces to kill Hussain and his companions, and this was on the Day of Ashura.
Fasting on the Day of Ashura is highly recommended, although it is not obligatory. The act of fasting on this day is believed to hold abundant rewards. According to a hadith narrated by Abu Qatadah (RA), the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “It expiates [wipes out the minor sins of] the past year” (Muslim). Fasting on the Day of Ashura is also a way of increasing gratitude towards Allah (SWT) and maintaining humility. Therefore, Muslims are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to increase their good deeds and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT).
For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussain. Some re-enact the martyrdom as a way of reflecting on it. This involves processions, recitations, and other acts of remembrance to honour Hussain’s sacrifice and to reflect on the themes of justice and resistance against oppression.
Sunni Muslims, while reflecting on the events of Karbala, also commemorate how Allah (SWT) saved Musa (AS) and his followers. They remember and reflect upon other significant events that are believed to have occurred on the Day of Ashura, making it a day rich with historical and spiritual significance.
The virtues of Muharram are numerous, with good deeds and actions carrying more reward during this sacred month. Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of charity, praise of Allah (SWT), and Quranic recitation to draw closer to Him. However, sins committed in this month are also considered more severe, so it is essential to refrain from sinning.
The Day of Ashura 2025 is a sacred and significant day for Muslims worldwide, expected to fall on July 2025. It is a time for fasting, reflection, and remembrance of significant historical events. Whether it is observing the fast on the Day of Ashura, reflecting on the martyrdom of Hussain (RA), commemorating the deliverance of Musa (AS) and his followers, or donating to charity, the Day of Ashura holds profound meaning in Islam. Understanding what happened on the Day of Ashura and participating in its observances can help Muslims strengthen their faith and draw closer to Allah (SWT).
By embracing the practices and significance of the Day of Ashura, Muslims can ensure that they make the most of this sacred day, deepening their spiritual journey and connection to their faith.
