Why Do Shia and Sunni Muslims Fast on Ashura?

Ashura, the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, holds significant meaning in the Islamic calendar. But why do Sunni and Shia Muslims observe a fast on this day? The origins of ashura fasting are deeply rooted in both religious tradition and historical context. Let’s explore the history and significance behind this practice.

Historical Context of Ashura

The practice of fasting on Ashura predates the rise of Islam. According to reports, when the Prophet Muhammad migrated to Medina, he observed that the Jews were fasting on that day. He inquired about the significance behind this fasting tradition and was informed about the event of the Israelites being saved from the Pharaoh.

Hadith: Sahih Bukhari

Sahih Bukhari 4680 narrates the event:

“The Prophet Muhammad came to Madeenah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of ‘Ashoora’. He said, ‘What is this’ They said, ‘This is a good day this is the day when Allaah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy and Moosa [Moses] fasted on this day.’ He said: ‘We are closer to Moosa than you.’ So he fasted on this day and told the people to fast.”

Sahih Bukhari 1865 further elaborates on the fast:

“The words ‘this is a good day’ – according to a version narrated by Muslim: ‘This is a great day when Allaah saved Moosa and his people and drowned Pharaoh and his people.’ The words ‘so Moosa fasted on this day’ – Muslim added in his report: ‘In gratitude to Allaah so that is we fast on this day.’ According to another version narrated by al-Bukhaari: ‘So we fast it out of respect for it.’”

Encouragement for Fasting

When different Companions of the Prophet informed him that fasting on the day of Ashura was glorified among Jews and Christians, the Prophet encouraged them by saying:

“If I live until next year I will fast the ninth day of Muharram too.”

Ibn Majah 1736 reveals the outcome of the Prophet's encouragement:

“Unfortunately, the Prophet did not live to see the next year. Therefore, Muslims consider the 9th and 10th of Muharram as significant days in the Islamic calendar and observe fast on these days.”

Why Fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram?

From a broader perspective, the preference for fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram arises from a desire to differentiate the Islamic fasting norms from those of the Jewish community, who only fast on the 10th of Muharram. Most Islamic scholars agree that while the fasting on the 10th is acceptable, . it is more advisable but not mandatory to combine it with fasting on the 9th or 11th of Muharram. The ideal practice is to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

Broader Benefits of Fasting on Ashura

The significance of the fast of Ashura extends beyond its religious roots. The Hadith explicitly states that fasting on Ashura includes the hope of expiation of sins for the preceding year. Sahih Muslim 1162 clarifies the terms of this expiation:

“The expiation of sins that is achieved by fasting ‘Ashoora’ refers to minor sins with regard to major sins they need separate repentance. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said, “Fasting the day of ‘Arafah I hope Allaah will expiate thereby for the year before it and the year after it and fasting the day of ‘Ashoora’ I hope Allaah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it.”

The term "I hope" in the Hadith emphasizes the importance of wholeheartedly fasting for Allah and seeking forgiveness from Him. This underscores the deep spiritual significance of the day, offering Muslims the opportunity to purify their souls through self-restraint and devotion.

Conclusion

Understood in the context of both historical and religious significance, the practice of fasting on Ashura serves as a powerful tradition for Muslims. While there are various schools of thought and different ways of observing this fast, the underlying goal is to honor the spiritual connection with Prophet Muhammad and to seek the blessings of Allah. This tradition reflects the unity and diversity within the Islamic community, where common religious practices serve to bring followers closer to their faith.