The Islamic month of Muharram marks one of the most important days of the year – Ashura. Here is an overview of what is Ashura and the important events in Islamic history that are related to it.
What is Ashura?
The term “Ashura” is derived from the Arabic word “Asharah” which means ten. So, for those who want to know what is Ashura and why this day is so important, here is an overview of it.
Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram and holds great significance for Muslims due to its virtuousness. According to Abu Bakrah رضي الله عنه Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “The year is twelve months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab mudar which comes between Jumaada and Shabaan.” (Bukhari)
Considering how special the month of Muharram and the day of Ashura are, we should strive to do as many good deeds as possible to gain multiple rewards. One of the most honourable acts of worship on Ashura is to give charity to those who are suffering. Abdullah bin Amr Bin-Al (RA) has narrated that the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH), when discussing charity on Ashura, said, “whoever gives charity on this day is like the charity of an entire year” (Ibn Rajab’s Lata’if Al-Ma’arif).
When is Ashura 2024?
For those wondering when is Ashura 2024, the day will take place on Tuesday 16th July 2024. This date is subject to change on moon sighting each year.
What is the significance of Ashura?
In determining what is Ashura, it is important to keep in mind that many significant events have taken place on this deeply honourable day.
The Battle of Karbala:
One of the most significant events that took place in Muharram is martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) during the Battle of Karbala. This battle was fought between Imam Hussain (the grandson of the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) alongside his family and companions), and a much larger army sent by Yazid ibn Muawiyah (the Umayyad caliph at the time).
This conflict arose as Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid ibn Muawiayh, who had assumed leadership of the Muslim community following his father’s passing. Linking this back to the question of what is Ashura, on the 10th of Muharram, was when Hazrat Imam (RA) Hussain was martyred by the opposing forces. The significance of Ashura stems from the sacrifice that Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the 72 martyrs were prepared to take in order to preserve the integrity of Islam.
The Day Allah (SWT) freed Musa (AS):
During the time of Prophet Musa (AS), it was on the day of Ashura that Allah (SWT) saved the Prophet and his followers from the tyrannical rule of the Pharoah. He was a corrupt ruler who declared himself to be God. Prophet Musa (AS) refused to follow the Pharoah and urged him to worship Allah. In response, the Pharoah decided to destroy the Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers by sending a large army.
In getting to know what is Ashura, it is important to recognise the significance of Ashura, as the day that Prophet Musa (AS) and his people, placed their trust solely in Allah (SWT) for protection, whilst being placed under the most life-threatening situation of being pursued by the army. Prophet Musa (AS) made the following dua which was later revealed in the Quran – “Truly, my Lord is with me, He will guide me through” (Quran 26:62).
Prophet Musa (AS) actions are a true testament of patience and having unwavering faith in Allah. The day of Ashura marks when Allah parted the Red Sea to allow the Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers to pass through safely. Clearly, this demonstrates the significance of Ashura and its place within Islam. In gratitude, Prophet Musa (AS) observed fasting on this day.
Spiritual Virtues of Ashura
The day of Ashura holds great significance in terms of practising spiritual virtues to earn multiple rewards. For those who want to make the most of this sacred month should observe the following acts:
Fasting on the day of Ashura?
Fasting on the day of Ashura has a special place in Islam. It provides an opportunity for believers to seek blessings and forgiveness for sins committed in the past.
This leads to the question of what is Ashura’s significance in terms of fasting? When it comes to observing the day of Ashura, the most important thing one can do is fasting. Fasting on this date is a means of atonement as in a hadith, Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) said that “fasting the day of ‘Ashura’, I hope Allah will expiate the sins of the year went before.” (Sahih Muslim)
Seeking Forgiveness Through Increased Worshipping
Muharram and the day of Ashura is the best time to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT). During this month, it is advisable to increase worshipping and Zikr of Allah and ask for HIS forgiveness and divine mercy with a commitment to follow the right path in the future.
Practising Acts of Charity
Engaging in the acts of charity during Muharram and on the day of Ashura is highly recommended. By showing generosity, you can donate to different charities like Al-Wahab Foundation to provide clean drinking water, cooked food, food packs, and contribute to build a masjid or providing musallah for masajid. By supporting these initiatives, you can not only serve humanity but also reap the spiritual benefits in this world and hereafter.
Concluding Remarks:
As we approach the month of Muharram, we should take it as an opportunity to self-reflect and gain multiple rewards by practicing increased worshipping as well as taking part in acts of charity. To truly understand the significance of what is Ashura, we must follow the example set by Hazrat Imam Hussain and Prophet Musa (AS) who both stood by faith and righteousness.
