Ashura A Sacred Day for Muslims to Reflect and Give
The 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar is observed as the Day of Ashura. Recognised as a day significant for Muslims all around the world, the Day of Ashura offers an opportunity for believers to reflect, pray and carry out acts of kindness. One of the key practices carried out on this day is fasting, an act that holds meaning and benefits.
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 Messenger of Allah (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”
(Bukhari)
Benefits of Fasting on the Day of Ashura
Ashura fasting offers great spiritual and physical benefits. 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 change to live life righteously. You are encouraged to self-reflect so you may better your character and the way you live.
The reward for fasting on the Day of Ashura is great. According to Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has 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”
(Muslim)
By fasting on this day, Muslims remember the trials of the Prophets, especially Prophet Musa AS (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 2027, the Day of Ashura fasting is expected to take place on 16 June. 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 also recommended to 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 an important day for Muslims where believers spend their day fasting, reflecting, and carrying out acts of charity. It honours the day when Prophet Musa AS (Moses) and the Children of Israel were saved from Pharaoh’s oppression. The Day of Ashura 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 essential 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.
It has been narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) has said,
“Myself and the caretaker of an orphan will be in Paradise like this,” and he held his two fingers together.
[Bukhari]
This Ashura, make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children by donating to Orphans in Need. Your contribution can provide essential help, delivering food, clothing, education, and healthcare to orphans who desperately need our help.
By combining our acts of fasting with charity, we can embrace the spirit of Ashura. Let us strive to cleanse our souls and extend our hands to those in need, ensuring that our fast and giving is not just an act of virtue but also a means of lifting a community.
Donate This Ashura
Together, we can honour the legacy of our Prophets and make a difference to the lives of the vulnerable. Donate to Orphans in Need today and help make a change today.
May Allah accept our fasts, forgive our sins, and bless our efforts to support those who need us most. Ameen.