The Day of Ashura holds deep religious and historical significance in Islam. It is observed by worldwide Muslims on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. This day specifically carries immense spiritual and historical importance for Muslims as many historical events happened on this day. Such as; the exodus of Bani Israel by Prophet Musa (AS), the resting of the ship of Prophet Nuh (AS) and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA).
Muslims honour this day by following the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and observing a fast as well as remembering the key events that happened on this day. Let’s explore what the Day of Ashura is, its significance, and how it is observed in Islam.
The Meaning of Ashura in Islam
The word "Ashura" is derived from the Arabic word “Ashara,” which means "ten”. Hence, Ashura refers to the 10th day of Muharram. This day is significant for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, though the reasons for its importance and the way it is observed differ between the two sects.
While Sunni Muslims emphasise fasting and gratitude to Allah, Shia Muslims observe this day as a time of mourning and remembrance for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
When is Ashura 2025?
The Day of Ashura, which falls on the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, is expected to be observed on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
It's important to note that Islamic dates are based on the lunar calendar and the sighting of the moon, which can lead to slight variations in the exact date of observance across different regions.
Therefore, while July 5, 2025, is the anticipated date, local moon sightings may result in Ashura being observed a day earlier or later in some areas. For instance, the Ashura in 2025 may be observed on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Historical Events Happened on Ashura
Ashura is linked to several important events in Islamic and pre-Islamic history. Some of these events are believed to have occurred on this day, giving it unique spiritual and historical significance:
1. The Rescue of Children of Bani Israel by Allah (SWT)
One of the most well-known historical events associated with Ashura is the rescue of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh by the command of Allah (SWT). According to Islamic tradition, on this day, Allah (SWT) parted the Red Sea, allowing Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers to escape, while Pharaoh and his army were drowned. This miraculous event is a symbol of Allah’s (SWT) mercy and justice.
‘Then We inspired to Musa (AS), “Strike with your staff the sea”, and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain. And We advanced thereto the pursuers. And We saved Musa (AS) and those with him, all together. Then We drowned the others.’
(Surah Ash-Shu'ara, 26:63-66)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged fasting on Ashura to commemorate this event.
Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that:
"When the Prophet (PBUH) came to Madinah, he found that the Jews were fasting on the day of Ashura. He asked them why, and they said, ‘This is the day when Allah saved Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh, and so we fast on this day to honour it.’ The Prophet (PBUH) said, ‘We have more right to Musa (AS) than you,’ so he fasted on that day and commanded [the Muslims] to fast."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2004)
2. The Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA)
The Day of Ashura is also primarily associated with the tragic events of Karbala. On the 10th of Muharram in 680 CE, Imam Hussain (RA), along with his family and companions, was martyred by the forces of Yazid, the Umayyad ruler, in the Battle of Karbala in Iraq.
Imam Hussain (RA) stood against tyranny and injustice, refusing to pledge allegiance to Yazid for which he suffered greatly but he never surrendered. His sacrifice is a timeless reminder of standing firm for truth and justice, even in the face of hardship and oppression.
This event is deeply mourned by Shia Muslims, who observe the day with processions, recitations, and emotional expressions of grief.
3. Relief for Prophet Nuh (AS) and His People
Prophet Nuh (AS) is one of the five greatest prophets mentioned in the Quran. He preached continuously for almost 950 years and called people on the path of righteousness (Tawhid). However, only a few people listened and accepted his invitation.
Allah (SWT) later ordered Prophet Nuh (AS) to build an Ark to keep his followers safe while he sent the flood to destroy the non-believers and sinners on earth. This is mentioned in detail in the Quran:
"So We inspired him (Nuh (AS)), 'Construct the ship under Our eyes and Our inspiration, and when Our command comes and the oven overflows, take on board a pair of every species, and your family, except those for whom the word has already gone forth, and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are to be drowned.'"
(Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:27)
When the flood came its waves were as high as a mountain and the rain fell continuously for several months. However, Prophet Nuh (AS) and his followers remained safe. Finally, when the flood stopped Allah (SWT) asked Prophet Nuh (AS) to bring the Ark to rest and disembark it. This happened on the day of Ashura.
One of the hadiths narrated by Musanad Ahmed states:
it was on this day [Ashura] that the Ark of Nuh (AS) came to rest on Mount Judiyy
(Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 8717)
Significance of the Day of Ashura in Islam
The Day of Ashura has both spiritual and moral significance in Islam. Here are some of the key reasons why it is important:
1. A Day of Fasting
Fasting on Ashura is highly recommended in Islam, especially for Sunni Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated:
"Fasting the day of Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year"
(Sahih Muslim, 1162)
This fast is seen as an act of gratitude to Allah for His blessings and mercy. The Prophet (PBUH) also encouraged Muslims to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram or the 10th and 11th, to differentiate from the Jewish tradition.
2. It Is the Best Fast After Ramadan
Fasting on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) is the best fast after the month of Ramadan. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
‘The best of fasting after Ramadhan is fasting Allah’s (SWT) month of Muharram.”
(Sahih Muslim, 1163a)
This shows how rewarding and important it is to fast on this day and since the day comes just once a year one should not miss it. In another saying Ibn ‘Abbas (RA) said:
“I never saw the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of ‘Ashura’, and this month, meaning Ramadan.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 2006)
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3. Remembering the Struggle Against Oppression
The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala highlights the importance of standing against injustice and tyranny. His sacrifice is a powerful example of unwavering faith, courage, and devotion to Allah (SWT). The lessons from Karbala inspire Muslims to uphold truth and justice in their lives.
4. Spending on One’s Family on the Day of Ashura Brings Blessings
The Day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, is a day full of virtues and blessings. Among its special practices is the act of being extra generous toward one’s family. This simple yet powerful gesture is a source of barakah (blessings) for the entire year.
The Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) emphasised the significance of this act, saying:
“One who generously spends on his family on Ashura (the 10th of Muharram), Allah will be generous to him for the entire year.”
(Shu'ab al-Iman, 3515)
This hadith highlights that by prioritising your family’s happiness and needs on this day, you can attract Allah’s (SWT) generosity and abundance for the coming year. It’s a beautiful reminder of how small acts of kindness and care toward loved ones can have long-lasting spiritual and worldly benefits.
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Conclusion
The Day of Ashura is deeply significant in Islam, marked by fasting, reflection, and remembrance. It serves as a reminder of Allah’s (SWT) mercy, the importance of justice, and the power of unwavering faith.
Whether through fasting, mourning, or acts of kindness, Ashura unites Muslims in their devotion to Allah (SWT) and their commitment to living righteous lives. By understanding the historical and spiritual significance of this day, Muslims can draw inspiration and guidance for their own journey of faith.
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