What Is Ashura and Why Is It Important?

Question:

Fasting on the day of ‘Ashura expiates for the past year. Does it expiate for everything, even major sins? what is the significance?

Praise to Allah

Short Summary:

Ashura means ‘the tenth,’ is the 10th day of Muharram . Fasting on the day of ‘Ashura can forgive the past year’s minor sins. For the major sins, sincere repentance is required.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged us to fast on this day to remember how Allah saved Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and his people from Pharaoh.

Detailed Answer:

As we start the new Islamic year, it’s a perfect time to think about how we can be better. Fasting on the day of Ashura is a great way to start fresh. Ashura, which means ‘the tenth,’ is the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted on this day and told us to do the same. He ﷺ said that fasting on this day forgives our sins from the past year.

Why is fasting on ‘Ashura so important?

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said

That fasting on Ashura can forgive the past year’s sins

Muslim, 1162

This shows Allah’s great mercy, allowing us to be forgiven for a whole year’s mistakes by fasting just one day.

The Prophet was very keen to fast on this day because of its special status

Bukhari, 1867

Why do we fast on ‘Ashura?

When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came to Madinah, he saw that the Jews were fasting on Ashura. They told him that this was the day Allah saved Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and his people from Pharaoh.

The Prophet said, “We are closer to Moses than you,” and he fasted on this day and told the people to fast as well

Bukhari, 1865

This day is special because it marks a great victory and mercy from Allah.

What kind of sins are forgiven?

Fasting on ‘Ashura forgives minor sins. Major sins need special repentance.

Ashura is not just about forgiveness. It’s also a day of remembering the stories of the Prophets and their struggles against oppression. It’s a day of victory and gratitude to Allah.

As we fast on this day, let’s think about the lessons from the prophets and the importance of standing up for what is right. We pray that Allah forgives our past sins and helps us stay strong in our faith.

And Allah Knows Best