The Day of Ashura falls on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is a significant day for Muslims, commemorating Allah (SWT) freeing Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh.
The Story of Musa
The Quran recounts that Allah (SWT) sent Musa (AS) to guide and warn the Pharaoh of Egypt and the Israelites. Musa’s life is the most frequently mentioned in the Quran.
Blessings of Ashura
Fasting on the Day of Ashura is highly rewarded as it expiates sins from the previous year. After years of oppression, the Israelites escaped slavery, reaching the Red Sea. Allah (SWT) commanded Musa to strike the sea with his staff, parting it to allow the Israelites to cross. When Pharaoh and his army followed, the sea closed in on them, drowning them.
To express gratitude for this miraculous event, Musa (AS) began fasting on Ashura. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged Muslims to continue this tradition by fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram to distinguish themselves from other religious groups.
Fasting and Charity
Fasting on Ashura was initially obligatory but became optional after the fast of Ramadan was prescribed (Sahih Bukhari). Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “This is a great day when Allah saved Musa and his people and drowned Pharaoh and his people” (Sahih Muslim). He also said, “One who generously spends on his family on the day of Ashura, Allah (SWT) will be generous on him for the entire year” (Baihaqi).
Fasting on Ashura is equivalent to fasting the entire year, and giving charity on this day is similarly rewarded.