Importance and Significance of Ashura in Islam

The literal meaning of the word “Ashura” is 10th as it is on the 10th day of Islamic month Muharram. Muharram is the first month of an Islamic year which starts with the sighting of the new moon. The day of Ashura marks the great historical significance in Islam as well as for Muslims all over the world. There are different events which took place on the day of Ashura in Islamic history.

Events took place on the Day of Ashura

• Martyred of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) held on the 10th day of Muharram (Ashura). Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) is the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and son of Hazrat Ali (RA) and Hazrat Fatima (RA). Hazrat Imam Hussain is also one of the Imams He (AS) is the third Imam of Muslims. Martyred of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) occurred in the battle of Karbala that took place between the good and the evil in which Imam Husain (AS) represented good and Yazid represented evil.  So, on the day of Ashura Muslims remember the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and His family for the religion of Islam.
• It has been narrated that it was the day on which Allah Almighty forgave our father Hazrat Adam (AS), the day on which the Ark of Hazrat Nuh (AS) came to rest on the mountain known as al-Judi and the day on which Allah forgave the people of Hazrat Yunus (AS).
• Ashura is the day on which Allah Almighty saved Hazrat Musa (AS) and his people and drowned Firaun and his army who were against Hazrat Musa (AS). Musa (AS) fasted out of gratitude to Allah and his people continued the practice after him. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) told the Jews that his nation was closer to Musa than them. He (SAW) then fasted that day and ordered his Companions to fast.
• On the day of Ashura, Allah Almighty recovered Hazrat Ayub (AS) from the disease.

Every Muslim must aware of the importance of Muharram and virtues associated with this holy month. There are countless blessings from Allah Almighty for people who perform good deeds in this holiest month. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “The best of fasts besides the month of Ramadan is the fasting of Allah’s month of Muharram.” (Muslim) The above-mentioned hadith points towards two facts, firstly that Muharram is the month of Allah, and secondly fasting in Muharram is next to fasting during Ramadan. Therefore, if as a Muslim you are looking to enjoy the serenity and peace of keeping fast other than the month of Ramadan, then Muharram is the month when you need to keep fast. May Almighty Allah helps us and give us the strength to start the Islamic year with true Islamic spirit and shower His countless blessings upon us. Ameen!