The Story, the Benefits and the Rewards

The blessed month of Muharram approaches, and within its days lies a momentous occasion known as Ashura. This day holds immense significance in the Islamic calendar, presenting a unique opportunity for believers to seek spiritual rewards through fasting.

Allah’s Salvation of Bani Israel and Prophet Musa

One of the historical events commemorated on Ashura is the salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses) and Bani Israel from the tyranny of Fir’aun (Pharaoh) in ancient Egypt. The Quran recounts how Allah delivered the Israelites from their oppressors, parting the sea for them to escape and causing Fir’aun and his army to drown (Quran 10:90-92). This divine intervention stands as a testament to Allah’s mercy and power.

Destruction of Fir’aun and His Army:

The Day of Ashura also symbolises the downfall of Fir’aun, the wicked tyrant who claimed lordship and inflicted severe torment upon the Israelites. As a consequence of their disbelief and arrogance, Fir’aun and his forces were vanquished, and justice was served by the will of Allah swt (Quran 28:40-42).

Prophet Musa’s Fasting as Gratitude

In gratitude for their salvation, Prophet Musa (as) fasted on the Day of Ashura. Ibn ‘Abbas said: “The Prophet (ﷺ) came to Al- Madinah, and he found the Jews observing a fast. He said: ‘What is this?’ They said: ‘This is the day when Allah saved Musa and drowned Fir’aun, so Prophet Musa fasted this day in gratitude.’ The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ‘We have more right to Musa than you do.’ So, he ﷺ fasted (that day) and enjoined (others) to fast it also.’ By observing fasting on this day, Prophet Musa expressed his gratitude and thankfulness to Allah for His divine favor.

The Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Following in the footsteps of Prophet Musa, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also fasted on the Day of Ashura. His ﷺ example serves as a guide for Muslims to uphold the practice and commemorate the historical and spiritual significance of this occasion.

The reward of Fasting on Ashura

The virtue and reward associated with fasting on Ashura is mentioned in the Hadith. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was asked about fasting on the Day of Ashura, to which he responded, “It will expiate the sins of the past year” (Sahih Muslim).

Fasting on the 9th Day of Muharram

Furthermore, there is an additional opportunity for reward by fasting on the 9th day of Muharram. The Hadith narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ intended to fast on the 9th day had he lived longer. Although he could not fulfil this intention, fasting on the 9th day of Muharram still holds significance, allowing Muslims to emulate the Prophet’s ﷺ practice and earn further rewards.

By fasting on Ashura, Muslims can not only seek forgiveness and spiritual purification but also commemorate Allah’s favor upon the Bani Israel and Prophet Musa. It is an occasion to follow the way of Prophet Musa and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, while reaping abundant rewards. Let us embrace this act of worship, encourage others to join us, and maximise the blessings and benefits of fasting on Ashura. May Allah accept our fasts, bestow His mercy and forgiveness upon us, and grant us success in this life and the hereafter. Ameen.