When is the 10th Day of Muharram, and Why is it Important?

The 10th Day of Muharram 2024: Significance and Observance

As the Islamic calendar unfolds, one of the most significant dates for Muslims around the world is the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura. In 2024, the 10th of Muharram will either fall on 16 or 17 July. The exact date of Ashura 2024 depends on your location and sighting of the moon of Muharram 1446. This date holds profound religious and historical significance, marked by various observances and rituals, particularly fasting and giving to charity.

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What is the 10th of Muharram?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and the 10th day of this month, known as Ashura, is a day of deep spiritual reflection and historical remembrance. The term “Ashura” is derived from the Arabic word “Ashara,” meaning “ten,” indicating its occurrence on the 10th day.

Historical and Religious Significance

The 10th of Muharram, Ashura, holds great importance in Islam due to several key historical events:

1. The Exodus of Moses (Musa) and the Israelites: One of the most significant events associated with Ashura is the deliverance of the Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Israelites from the tyranny of Pharaoh. According to Islamic tradition, it was on this day that Allah (SWT) parted the Red Sea, allowing Moses and his followers to escape, while the Pharaoh’s army was drowned. To commemorate this event, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended fasting on the 10th of Muharram.
2. Martyrdom of Imam Hussain: Another poignant event is the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This tragic event is particularly significant for Shia Muslims, who observe the day with mourning rituals, processions, and recitations to honour the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and his companions.

Observances on the 10th of Muharram

The observances of the 10th Muharram vary among different Islamic traditions but share a common theme of reflection, fasting, and remembrance.

Fasting on the 10th of Muharram

Fasting on the 10th of Muharram, known as the Ashura fast, is a widely practised Sunnah (tradition) among Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself fasted on this day and encouraged his followers to do the same, stating that fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year.

Mourning and Remembrance

For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of mourning and lamentation for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. The day is marked with processions, recitations of elegies, and the retelling of the events of Karbala. Participants often wear black clothing and refrain from joyous activities as a sign of respect and mourning.

The Importance of the 10th Muharram in Islam

The importance of the 10th of Muharram, or Ashura, in Islam, can be understood through its multi-faceted significance:

1. A Day of Reflection and Piety: For many Muslims, Ashura is a day of spiritual reflection and piety. The act of fasting is seen as a means to seek Allah’s (SWT) mercy and forgiveness, drawing closer to Him through acts of devotion.
2. Commemoration of Historical Events: Ashura serves as a reminder of the trials and triumphs of past prophets and pious individuals. The deliverance of Moses and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain highlight themes of faith, perseverance, and the struggle against oppression.
3. Unity and Diversity: While the day holds particular significance for Shia Muslims, it is also observed by Sunni Muslims, albeit in different ways. This diversity in observance reflects the richness of Islamic traditions and the shared values of faith and resilience.

When is the 10th of Muharram 2024?

For those planning to observe the fast or participate in commemorations, it is important to know that the 10th of Muharram, Ashura, can take place on 16 or 17 July 2024. As the Islamic calendar is lunar based, the exact date can vary slightly depending on the sighting of the moon.

The 10th of Muharram, Ashura, is a day of profound importance in the Islamic calendar, marked by historical remembrance, fasting, and spiritual reflection. Whether observing the fast on 10th Muharram or participating in the commemorative rituals, Muslims around the world honour this day in various meaningful ways. The 10th Muharram date 2024, falling on either 16 or 17 July, serves as a reminder of the enduring faith and resilience of the Muslim community, rooted in deep historical and spiritual traditions.

Although the 10th oh Muharram is important, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encourages Muslims to fast on the 9th and 10th (or 10th and 11th) days of the month, too. Fasting the 9th of Muharram is highly recommended by the Prophet Ibn Abbas, who also said: We should fast on two days, the 9th and 10th of Muharram, to distinguish ourselves from the Jewish community. (At-Tirmidhi), it is obligatory for Muslims to fast on both days.

It’s also recommended that Muslims donate to charity on this blessed day to share their blessings with the less fortunate.

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