By Fahmina

What is Ashura and Why is it Celebrated? Meaning, History, and Virtues

The month of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar Hijri calendar. While the entire month holds a designated status of sanctity, its tenth day—known as the Day of Ashura—carries profound spiritual significance for Muslims across the globe.

To truly understand what is Ashura and why is it celebrated, we must separate historical events from authentic prophetic traditions. In this article, we explore the deep spiritual history of this day, its primary acts of worship, and common misconceptions.

What is the Meaning of Ashura?

The word Ashura is derived from the Arabic word ‘Asharah, which means ten. Semantically, it simply translates to the “tenth day,” specifically referring to the 10th of Muharram.

In his treatise Islamic Months, Mufti Taqi Usmani clarifies that time and space are fundamentally equal in their origin. No single day holds inherent luck, misfortune, or sanctity on its own. Instead, a day gains exceptional status exclusively when Allah Almighty chooses it as a vessel for His special blessings and grace. The Day of Ashura is one such blessed period.

Why is Ashura Celebrated? The True Historical Context

When exploring why Ashura is observed, it is vital to trace its roots back to the practices of the prophets. Many people mistakenly believe that the significance of Ashura began with the tragic events of Karbala. However, authentic Islamic texts show that its sacredness was established long before.

1. The Deliverance of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him)

The primary historical reason Muslims fast on Ashura dates back to the migration (Hijrah) of the prophet Muhammad ﷺ to Madinah.

The Hadith of Ibn Abbas (RA):

When the Holy Prophet ﷺ arrived in Madinah, he found that the Jewish community fasted on the 10th of Muharram. When asked about the reason, they explained that it was the monumental day when Allah saved Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) and the Children of Israel from their enemy, miraculously parting the Red Sea and drowning Pharaoh (Fir’awn).

Upon hearing this, the Prophet ﷺ stated: “We are more closely related to Musa than you,” and he instructed the Muslims to fast on this day (Sahih al-Bukhari).

2. Pre-Islamic Sanctions

The sanctity of Muharram and Ashura was recognized even by the pre-Islamic Arabs. The pagan Quraish used to fast on the 10th of Muharram and drape the kaaba on this day. It was an established period of peace where tribal warfare was strictly prohibited.

3. The Tragedy of Karbala

The 10th of Muharram also marks the day Sayyidna Husain (RA)—the beloved grandson of the Prophet ﷺ—alongside his family members, achieved martyrdom on the battlefields of Karbala.

While this historical event is undeniably one of the most tragic and painful chapters in Islamic history, Mufti Taqi Usmani emphasizes a critical theological point: The sanctity of Ashura is not based on the martyrdom of Sayyidna Husain (RA). Rather, Allah out of His infinite wisdom chose this already sacred day for the high status of martyrdom to be bestowed upon the Prophet’s ﷺ grandson.

The Virtues and Recommended Actions of Ashura

True appreciation of Ashura lies in following the established Sunnah. According to authentic traditions, there are two primary virtuous deeds associated with this day:

1. Fasting on the Day of Ashura

Fasting on the 10th of Muharram was actually mandatory (Fard) for Muslims in the early days of Islam. After the fasting of Ramadan was revealed, the fast of Ashura was made voluntary (Nafl).

• The Reward: The Prophet ﷺ said: “Fasting the day of ‘Ashura’, I hope Allah will expiate the sins of the year that came before it.” (Sahih Muslim).
• The Method (Avoiding the Single Fast): To distinguish the Muslim practice from the Jewish custom, the Prophet ﷺ expressed his intention to fast an additional day. He stated: “If I live until next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth day [as well].” (Sahih Muslim).

Therefore, scholars like Mufti Taqi Usmani point out that keeping a single fast on the 10th of Muharram alone is disliked (Makrooh Tanzihi). Muslims should pair it by fasting either on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.

2. Generosity Toward One’s Family

Another virtuous act supported by authentic narrations is expanding one’s financial generosity toward their dependents on this specific day.

The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said: “One who provides generously for his family on the day of Ashura, Allah will be generous to him for the rest of the year.” While some traditionalists debated the strength of this narration, eminent scholars and Muhadditheen (including Imam Sufyan bin Uyaynah and Yahya bin Saeed) tested this practice throughout their lives and confirmed seeing immense blessings (Barakah) in their provisions.

Unauthentic Traditions and Misconceptions to Avoid

An essential part of Mufti Taqi Usmani’s guidance on Muharram involves dismantling the cultural myths and innovations (Bid’ah) that have clouded the day over centuries.

Key Takeaways for Muslims Today

To benefit fully from the spiritual rewards of Ashura, focus your day on intentional actions rather than cultural rituals:

• Plan the Fasts: Mark your calendar to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
• Increase Repentance (Istighfar): Since the fast expiates minor sins of the past year, use this day to renew your relationship with Allah.
• Provide for the Household: Bring joy, quality food, or modest gifts to your immediate family within your lawful means, seeking long-term Barakah.

By returning to the pure teachings of the Quran and the authentic Sunnah, we can honor the true history of Ashura and draw closer to the Creator.

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