The Significance of Fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram

Introduction

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.

Historical Background

The Roots of Ashura

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.

The Prophet’s Practice

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)

Why Two Days?

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.

Religious Rulings: Fasting on 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th Muharram

The Sunnah of Fasting

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.

Evidence from Hadith

  1. Fasting on the 10th:
    Abdullah ibn Abbas reported:“The Prophet (peace be upon him) came to Medina and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He said, ‘What is this?’ They said, ‘This is a righteous day, it is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Moses fasted on this day.’ He said, ‘We have more right to Moses than you,’ so he fasted on that day and commanded [the Muslims] to fast on that day.”
    (Bukhari and Muslim)
  2. Adding the 9th or 11th:
    The Prophet said:“If I remain [alive] till the next year, I will certainly fast the ninth [of Muharram] too.”
    (Sahih Muslim)
    However, he passed away before the following year.Scholars deduced from this hadith that fasting on the 9th and 10th is preferable. If one misses the 9th, then fasting the 10th and 11th is also recommended.

The Ruling in Different Schools of Thought

  • Hanafi, Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools all agree that fasting on Ashura is Sunnah and that it is better to fast an additional day to differentiate from the Jewish tradition.
  • Fasting only on the 10th is still meritorious but less preferred.

Spiritual and Social Benefits

1. Expiation of Sins

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.

2. Following the Sunnah

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.

3. Solidarity with Prophets

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.

4. Distinction in Worship

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.

5. Reflection and Renewal

Muharram, and especially Ashura, is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and making resolutions for spiritual growth in the new year.

How to Observe the Fasts

1. Intention (Niyyah)

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.

2. Timing

  • 9th and 10th Muharram: This is the most preferred combination.
  • 10th and 11th Muharram: If the 9th is missed, fasting the 10th and 11th is also recommended.
  • Only the 10th: If unable to fast two days, fasting only on Ashura is still virtuous.

3. Suhoor and Iftar

The fasts of Muharram follow the same rules as any other voluntary fast:

  • Begin with suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and break the fast at maghrib (sunset).
  • Engage in additional acts of worship, such as prayer, Qur’an recitation, and charity.

Common Questions and Misconceptions

1. Is Fasting on Ashura Compulsory?

No, it is not obligatory but highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah).

2. What If I Can Only Fast One Day?

Fasting only on the 10th is still rewarding, but it is better to add the 9th or 11th if possible.

3. Are There Special Duas or Prayers?

There are no specific prayers prescribed for Ashura, but general acts of worship, supplication, and seeking forgiveness are encouraged.

4. Can Women in Menstruation Fast?

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.

5. Is There Any Special Charity?

While not obligatory, giving charity on Ashura is highly virtuous. The Prophet encouraged generosity on this day.

The Broader Context: Ashura in Islamic History

The Martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali

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.

Unity in Diversity

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.

Practical Tips for Observing Ashura Fasts

  1. Plan Ahead: Mark the 9th, 10th, and 11th of Muharram on your calendar.
  2. Prepare Spiritually: Make sincere repentance and set intentions for the new year.
  3. Engage the Family: Encourage family members, especially children, to participate and learn about the significance of these days.
  4. Increase Good Deeds: Alongside fasting, increase acts of kindness, charity, and worship.
  5. Reflect and Record: Use this time to reflect on your spiritual journey and set goals for self-improvement.

Conclusion

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.

For more insightful articles on Islamic traditions and spirituality, visit The Valley Vision.

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