Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is a day of great significance in Islam, as it commemorates a number of important events in Islamic history.
One of the most important events that is commemorated on Ashura is the day that Allah saved the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. In the Quran, Allah says:
And We saved Moses and those with him, by a great deliverance.
اور جب ہم نے تمہارے لئے دریا چیر (پھاڑ) دیا اور تمہیں اس سے پار کردیا اور فرعونیوں کو تمہاری نظروں کے سامنے اس میں ڈبو دیا
And We drowned Pharaoh and his people, and they were all wrongdoers.
اور ہم نے (حضرت) موسیٰ ﴿علیہ السلام﴾ سے چالیس راتوں کا وعده کیا، پھر تم نے اس کے بعد بچھڑا پوجنا شروع کردیا اور ﻇالم بن گئے
(Quran 2:50-51)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to fast on the day of Ashura, saying:
Fasting the day of Ashura is a great atonement for the previous year.
(Sahih Muslim)
The fast of Ashura is not obligatory, but it is highly recommended. Muslims who fast on this day are believed to have their sins forgiven for the previous year.
In addition to commemorating the salvation of the Children of Israel, Ashura also marks the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Imam Hussain was martyrs in battle on the 10th of Muharram. His martyrs is a tragedy that is mourned by every Muslims around the world.
There are a number of different ways to observe Ashura. Some Muslims fast on the day of Ashura, while others choose to fast for two days, on the 9th-10th or 10th-11th of Muharram. Some Muslims also commemorate Ashura by giving charity, reading the Quran, and making dua.
No matter how you choose to observe Ashura, it is a day to reflect on the importance of faith, sacrifice, and justice. It is also a day to remember the many blessings that Allah has bestowed upon us.
Here are some of the benefits of fasting on Ashura:
- Forgives the sins of the previous year.
- Increases one’s closeness to Allah.
- Promotes self-discipline and self-control.
- Helps to cleanse the body and mind.
- Encourages charity and compassion.
If you are considering fasting on Ashura, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to make sure that you are physically and mentally healthy enough to fast. Second, you should consult with your doctor if you have any health conditions that may be affected by fasting. Finally, you should be prepared for the challenges of fasting, such as hunger, thirst, and fatigue.
If you do decide to fast on Ashura, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. First, make sure you have a good breakfast (Sehri) before you start fasting. Second, drink plenty of fluids during the day, even if you are not thirsty. Third, eat a light meal before breaking your fast. Finally, be patient and persistent, and remember that the rewards of fasting are great.