The Day of Ashura, 10th Muharam

Ashura is one of the greatest Islamic festivals observed throughout the Islamic community. It is observed on the tenth of the first month in the Islamic calendar called Muharram. Ashura simply translates to mean “10” in Arabic. In Islam, Ashura is observed on the 10th of Muharram; accordingly, in 2024, Ashura falls on July 16.

Why is Ashura Important?

Ashura is important for several reasons:

1. It can recall the time when Prophet Moses and the Israelites were delivered from the Pharaoh of Egypt.

2. Remembered as the day when, after Prophet Muhammad proposed the idea of fasting, Muslims were advised to do so.

3. Shia Muslims consider it an unfortunate Friday on which Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad dies.

Story of Moses and Pharaoh

In the far ancient days, Prophet Moses escaped from the wicked Pharaoh with the Hebrews to the land of Canaan. The Pharaoh and the entire army followed them. Moses and those who followed him were trapped once they got to the shores of the Red Sea. But Moses wanted to pray to God and asked Him for help. Then Lo and behold, the sea was parted into two! Moses and his people could cross over; the sea split and dried up. As soon as the Pharaoh and his army attempted to pursue the Israelites, the water re-formed and the Pharaoh and his entire army were drowned.

Prophet Muhammad and Fasting

When Prophet Muhammad came to Medina, he saw that Jewish people fasted on the Day of Ashura. They did this to remember how God saved Moses. Muhammad liked this idea and told Muslims they should fast on this day too. He said Muslims were close to Moses, just like the Jewish people were.

How Should Muslims Celebrate Ashura

1. Fasting

2. Charity

3. Praying and reading the Quran

4. Remembering Imam Hussein

Fasting on Ashura is thought to be very good. Prophet Muhammad said it could help erase the small sins of the past year. It’s like giving yourself a fresh start for the new year.