When to fast on the 9th (Taasoo’a’) and the 10th (‘Ashura) or 11th?

Question:

I wanted to know when it is recommended to fast in Muharram. i have heard different opinions on the 9th, 10 and 11th. can you please clarify

Praise to Allah:

Short Summary:

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ recommended fasting both the ninth (Taasoo’a’) and the tenth (Ashura) of Muharram to distinguish Muslim practices from those of others. There are 3 levels, the best is to fast 9 and 10, then you can fast 10, 11 . the last level is to fast 10th. Fasting on the 10th expiates minor sins of the past year

Detailed Answer:

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged fasting on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram. This practice helps distinguish Muslims from the Jews, who also observed fasting on the 10th.

Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that when the Prophet ﷺ fasted on ‘Ashura and encouraged others to do the same, some people mentioned that the Jews and Christians also honored this day. The Prophet then said, “Next year, if Allah wills, we will fast on the ninth day too.” However, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) passed away before the next year came

Muslim, 1916

Ibn Hajar, a respected Islamic scholar, mentioned three levels of fasting for ‘Ashura:

 “The fast of Ashura has three levels: the lowest is to fast one day, the next is to fast the ninth day along with it, and the next is to fast the ninth, tenth, and eleventh days. Allah knows best.”

Fatḥ al-Bārī 1896

So, it’s best to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. If you can’t, then the 10th and 11th. And if that’s still not possible, fasting on just the 10th is still very rewarding.

And Allah Knows Best