The month of Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. Among its days, the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is especially revered. While Ashura is widely recognized for its historical and spiritual importance, the practice of fasting on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th of Muharram is a Sunnah (tradition) that carries deep meaning and reward. This article explores the origins, rulings, and virtues of these fasts, as well as their place in Islamic tradition.
The day of Ashura predates Islam and was observed by previous prophets and communities. According to authentic hadiths, when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Madinah, he found the Jewish community fasting on the 10th of Muharram in gratitude for Allah’s deliverance of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny. The Prophet said,
“We are closer to Musa than you.”
He then encouraged Muslims to fast on this day.
Initially, fasting on Ashura was obligatory for Muslims. Later, when the fast of Ramadan was made obligatory, the Ashura fast became voluntary but highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) continued to emphasize its merit, saying:
“I hope from Allah that fasting on the day of Ashura may atone for the sins of the preceding year.”
(Sahih Muslim)
When the Prophet learned that the Jews fasted only on the 10th, he instructed his followers to distinguish themselves by fasting an additional day—either the 9th or the 11th. This was to avoid imitating other religious communities and to add further virtue to the practice.
Fasting on Ashura is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah). Scholars have agreed that while fasting on the 10th alone is permissible, it is preferable to fast two days—either the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th.
The greatest reward of fasting on Ashura is the expiation of minor sins from the previous year, as mentioned in the hadith. This highlights Allah’s mercy and the opportunity for spiritual renewal.
By fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th, Muslims revive a beautiful Sunnah of the Prophet and demonstrate their commitment to his teachings.
Fasting on these days connects Muslims to the legacy of Prophet Musa and the broader Abrahamic tradition, emphasizing gratitude for divine deliverance and steadfastness in faith.
The instruction to fast two days reflects the Islamic principle of maintaining a unique identity in worship and practice, while still honoring shared values with other faiths.
Muharram, and especially Ashura, is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and making resolutions for spiritual growth in the new year.
As with all acts of worship, the intention is crucial. One should make a clear intention to fast for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure and reward.
The fasts of Muharram follow the same rules as any other voluntary fast:
No, it is not obligatory but highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah).
Fasting only on the 10th is still rewarding, but it is better to add the 9th or 11th if possible.
There are no specific prayers prescribed for Ashura, but general acts of worship, supplication, and seeking forgiveness are encouraged.
No, women who are menstruating or experiencing postpartum bleeding are exempt from fasting and should make up missed obligatory fasts (such as Ramadan) later, but not voluntary fasts like Ashura.
While not obligatory, giving charity on Ashura is highly virtuous. The Prophet encouraged generosity on this day.
For many Muslims, especially in the Shia tradition, Ashura is also the day of mourning for the martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at Karbala. While the fast is not directly related to this event, the themes of sacrifice, justice, and faith resonate deeply.
The different ways Muslims commemorate Ashura—through fasting, reflection, or mourning—highlight the diversity within the ummah (community) and the shared values of faith, resilience, and remembrance.
Fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram is a beautiful Sunnah that connects Muslims to their prophetic heritage, offers immense spiritual reward, and provides an opportunity for renewal at the start of the Islamic year. Whether observed individually or with family and community, these fasts are a means of drawing closer to Allah, seeking forgiveness, and embodying the timeless values of faith and gratitude.
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