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Fasting on the Day of Ashura

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Embracing the Day of Ashura: A Time for Reflection, Fasting, and Giving

The Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, is a significant day for Muslims around the world. It is a day rich with historical and spiritual importance, offering an opportunity for reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness. One of the key practices on this day is fasting, an act that holds profound meaning and numerous benefits. As we commemorate this sacred day, let us also remember the widows, orphans, and vulnerable children who need our support. Your donation has the power to change lives for the better on this blessed occasion.

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Why Do We Fast on the Day of Ashura?

Fasting on the Day of Ashura is a tradition deeply rooted in Islamic history. According to several Hadiths, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) fasted on this day and encouraged others to do the same. One well-known Hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas states, “The Prophet came to Madinah and saw the Jews fasting on the Day of Ashura. He asked them, ‘What is this?’ They said, ‘This is a righteous day. It is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Moses fasted on this day.’ The Prophet said, ‘We are closer to Moses than you.’ So, he fasted on the day and told the people to fast” (Sahih Bukhari).

Benefits of Fasting on the Day of Ashura

Fasting on the Day of Ashura offers several spiritual and physical benefits:

  1. Spiritual Cleansing: Fasting is a means to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and to purify one’s soul. It is a time to repent for past sins and make a fresh commitment to live righteously. You are strongly encouraged to self-reflect so you may better your character and ways of life.
  2. Increased Rewards: The reward for fasting on the Day of Ashura is immense. According to another Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Fasting the Day of Ashura (is of great merits), I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for (the sins committed in) the previous year” (Sahih Muslim).
  3. Solidarity with Prophets: By fasting on this day, Muslims commemorate the trials and triumphs of the prophets, especially Prophet Musa (Moses) and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them). It is a way to connect with their struggles and victories.

The Day of Ashura Fasting Times

In 2024, the Day of Ashura will be observed on Tuesday, 16 July. This significant day falls on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The fast on the Day of Ashura starts at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib). It is recommended to also fast the day before, the 9th of Muharram, to distinguish the Muslim practice from that of the Jews, as suggested by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Ashura is a day of profound historical and religious importance for Muslims, marked by fasting, reflection, and acts of charity. It commemorates the day when Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny, and it is also a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), at the Battle of Karbala.

Increase Your Rewards by Supporting Orphans in Need

As we fast and reflect on the Day of Ashura, it is crucial to remember those who are less fortunate, especially orphans. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of caring for orphans, promising great rewards for those who support them.

This Ashura, we urge you to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children by donating to Orphans in Need. Your contribution can provide essential resources such as food, clothing, education, and healthcare to orphans who desperately need our help.

By combining our acts of fasting with charity, we can truly embody the spirit of Ashura. Let us strive to cleanse our souls and extend our hands to those in need, ensuring that our fast is not just an act of personal piety but also a means of communal upliftment.

Conclusion

The Day of Ashura is more than just a day of fasting; it is a day of deep spiritual reflection, historical commemoration, and heartfelt charity. As we observe this sacred day, let us embrace the full essence of its teachings by fasting, praying, and giving generously to those in need.

Together, we can honour the legacy of our prophets and make a tangible difference in the lives of orphans. Donate to Orphans in Need today and help create a brighter, more compassionate world.

May Allah (SWT) accept our fasts, forgive our sins, and bless our efforts to support those who need us most. Ameen.

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