Discover the importance of 10th Muharram in Islam, the meaning of Ashura day, and why Muslims fast and reflect during this sacred time.
Introduction: Understanding the Importance 10th of Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam. It holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims because of its spiritual importance and the events associated with it. Among all the days in Muharram, the 10th day known as Ashura stands out as a day of deep reflection, worship, and historical remembrance. To truly understand the importance of 10th Muharram in Islam, it is essential to explore its historical and spiritual value. This day is not only a time of fasting and prayer, but also a moment to remember the trials, sacrifices, and faith of great prophets and noble companions in Islamic history.
Ashura reminds us of Prophet Musa’s (AS) victory over Pharaoh, and it also marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in the Battle of Karbala events that have inspired generations of Muslims to stand for truth and justice. For many Muslims, the 10th of Muharram is a time to reconnect with these lessons and seek nearness to Allah through sincere worship.
As we enter this sacred time, understanding its meaning helps us observe it with intention, respect, and spiritual awareness.
What Is Muharram?
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, and it holds a special spiritual status in the Islamic calendar. Allah mentions these sacred months in the Quran, and scholars agree that they are times when good deeds carry greater reward and sins are more serious.
What is Muharram? It is a month of reflection, fasting, and remembrance. It marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar year and invites Muslims to start the new year with renewed faith and devotion.
The name “Muharram” itself means “forbidden,” highlighting that it is a month during which fighting and violence are traditionally discouraged. For practicing Muslims, this is a time to seek peace within, reconnect with Allah, and honor the events from Islamic history that occurred during this month.
One of the most significant days in Muharram is the 10th, known as Ashura, which has its own deep historical and religious importance that we’ll explore in the next section.
What Is Ashura Day?
Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram and one of the most meaningful days in the Islamic year. It is a day full of spiritual reflection, remembrance, and worship.
What is Ashura day? It is a day when many important events occurred in Islamic history. One of the most well-known is the story of Prophet Musa (AS), who, by Allah’s will, was saved along with his people from Pharaoh’s oppression. When Prophet Muhammad ﷺ learned about this, he said that Muslims have more right to honor Musa (AS), and he began fasting on this day. He also encouraged others to do the same.
Fasting on the day of Ashura is highly recommended. According to authentic hadith, the Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on this day can wipe out the sins of the previous year. That makes it a powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal and mercy from Allah.
Although many people recognize Ashura around the world, it is not a holiday or festival in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a day of worship, gratitude, and deep remembrance. Muslims use this time to fast, make dua, and reflect on lessons from the past that still apply today.
Historical Events on the 10th of Muharram
The 10th of Muharram, also known as Ashura, is a day marked by powerful moments in Islamic history. It is a time when Muslims reflect on lessons of faith, patience, and justice.
One of the most well-known events is the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the people of Israel. On this day, Allah saved them from Pharaoh’s tyranny by parting the Red Sea. When Prophet Muhammad ﷺ came to know that the Jews fasted on this day in remembrance of this miracle, he said Muslims should also honor it. The Prophet ﷺ himself fasted on the 10th of Muharram and encouraged his followers to do the same out of gratitude to Allah.
Another deeply significant event that many Muslims reflect upon during this time is the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of the Prophet ﷺ. He stood for truth and justice in the face of oppression and was tragically killed in the Battle of Karbala on this day. His sacrifice remains a powerful symbol of standing firm in faith, even in the most difficult circumstances.
People often search for the festival of Ashura, but it’s important to understand that Ashura is not a celebration or festival in the usual sense. It is a solemn day of reflection, fasting, and drawing closer to Allah. For many, it’s also a time to remember the moral strength shown by Prophet Musa (AS) and Imam Hussain (RA), and to take inspiration from their lives.
Why Do Muslims Fast on Ashura?
Fasting on the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a well-known sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It is not an obligation, but it is highly recommended due to its spiritual value and the authentic hadiths that support this practice.
When the Prophet ﷺ saw the Jews of Madinah fasting on the day of Ashura, he asked about it and was told it was the day when Allah saved Prophet Musa (AS) and his people from Pharaoh. The Prophet ﷺ responded by saying, “We have more right to Musa than they do,” and he fasted on that day and encouraged Muslims to fast as well.
Later, the Prophet ﷺ said that if he lived until the next year, he would fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, or the 10th and 11th, to distinguish the Muslim practice from that of other communities. This is why many scholars recommend fasting two days either 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th for added reward and to follow the Prophet’s guidance more completely.
The spiritual benefit of fasting on Ashura is immense. According to a hadith in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate the sins of the year before.”
This means that fasting on this one day can wipe away minor sins from the previous year, making it a powerful act of worship and mercy.
Although fasting on Ashura is not obligatory like Ramadan, it is a beautiful chance for Muslims to seek forgiveness, increase their good deeds, and connect with the example of the Prophet ﷺ.
Is Ashura a Holiday in Islam?
Many people wonder whether the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is considered a formal holiday in Islam. The simple answer is that Ashura is not a holiday like Eid, which involves celebration, prayer gatherings, and community events. Instead, Ashura is a day of worship, fasting, and reflection.
Although it holds great spiritual importance, there are no special festive rituals associated with Ashura in the way we see during Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha. The focus of Ashura is more about remembering key moments in Islamic history, showing gratitude to Allah, and increasing acts of devotion like fasting and making dua.
That said, in many Muslim-majority countries, Ashura is recognized as a public holiday. This is often due to its historical and religious significance, particularly in regions where the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala is remembered with great respect. Countries like Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and others observe the day officially to allow people to participate in religious gatherings, fasting, and reflection.
So while the Ashura holiday may exist in some cultures for observance and respect, it is not a celebration or festival in the Islamic sense. For Muslims, Ashura remains a powerful day of worship and connection to Allah through remembrance, patience, and prayer.
Lessons from the 10th of Muharram and its importance in Islam
The 10th of Muharram teaches Muslims some of the most powerful lessons in faith. When we reflect on the stories linked to this day, we find inspiration in patience, courage, and unwavering belief in Allah.
Prophet Musa (AS) trusted Allah completely when he stood before Pharaoh’s army with no escape in sight. Allah responded to that faith by parting the sea and saving him and his followers. This moment reminds us that when we rely on Allah with full trust, He opens paths we never imagined.
On the other hand, the stand of Imam Hussain (RA) in Karbala shows us the value of justice and sacrifice. Despite knowing the risks, he chose to stand for truth, even if it cost him his life. His bravery continues to inspire Muslims today to hold on to their values, even in difficult times.
These two events together show that the 10th of Muharram is more than a date on the calendar. It encourages Muslims to remain strong in their beliefs, stand for what is right, and trust that Allah’s help is always near. Whether we’re facing injustice, hardship, or spiritual struggle, this day reminds us to stay patient and keep our faith firm.
When Is Muharram This Year?
The Islamic calendar follows the moon, so the dates of each month including Muharram shift every year compared to the Gregorian calendar. Muslims around the world rely on moon sightings to determine the start of each Islamic month.
If you’re asking, when is Muharram, the exact date changes yearly and can differ slightly depending on your location. You can check with your local mosque, Islamic center, or an updated Islamic calendar to confirm the date.
Since Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, it also marks the Islamic New Year. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, falls ten days after the month begins. Muslims prepare for this day with extra prayer, reflection, and sometimes fasting on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th.
To stay ready, it’s helpful to mark your calendar, stay updated through trusted Islamic sources, and plan your worship early. That way, you can take full advantage of the blessings this sacred month offers.
How Muslims Can Observe the Day Today
Muslims today can observe the 10th of Muharram in meaningful and spiritually uplifting ways. While the day carries deep historical significance, the focus should remain on sincere worship and personal reflection.
One of the best ways to honor Ashura is through fasting. The Prophet ﷺ recommended fasting on this day, along with the 9th or 11th of Muharram. Fasting not only earns reward but also helps purify the heart and mind.
You can also spend time in dua (supplication), asking Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and mercy. Make heartfelt prayers for yourself, your family, and the wider Muslim ummah.
Reading the Quran is another powerful act of worship. Reflect on the verses about patience, trust in Allah, and standing for truth lessons that align closely with the stories of Prophet Musa (AS) and Imam Hussain (RA).
This day also offers an opportunity to reflect. Think about your actions, your relationship with Allah, and how you can improve your character and faith.
At the same time, it’s important to observe Ashura with peaceful remembrance. Avoid practices that go against the teachings of Islam or add cultural innovations not supported by the Sunnah. True respect for this day comes through following the example of the Prophet ﷺ: through fasting, reflection, and prayer.
Final Thoughts: The Importance of 10th Muharram in Islam
The 10th of Muharram is not just another date on the Islamic calendar. It reminds Muslims of powerful stories of faith, sacrifice, and victory through Allah’s help. From the rescue of Prophet Musa (AS) to the stand of Imam Hussain (RA), this day carries deep lessons that still guide us today.
By fasting, praying, and reflecting, Muslims honor the significance of Ashura with sincerity and devotion. It’s a chance to reset spiritually and begin the Islamic year with strong faith.
If you’re still wondering about the importance of 10th Muharram in Islam, remember this: it’s a day that calls every believer to trust in Allah, stand for truth, and seek His mercy with a humble heart.