Assalamu’alaikum dear readers,
As the blessed day of Ashura approaches, let us take a moment to delve into the significance of this sacred occasion and its importance in Islamic history. Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It holds great importance for Muslims around the world, as it marks various historical events and holds valuable lessons for us to contemplate.
The Day of Ashura
On the sacred Day of Ashura, we commemorate a significant event in Islamic history—the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea by the esteemed Prophet Musa (Moses).
The Children of Israel, oppressed under Pharaoh's tyranny, found themselves cornered at the shores of the Red Sea. In this moment of trial, Allah instructed Prophet Musa to strike the sea with his staff. To their astonishment, the sea parted, forming a dry path for the believers to escape.
The Children of Israel, oppressed under Pharaoh's tyranny, found themselves cornered at the shores of the Red Sea. In this moment of trial, Allah instructed Prophet Musa to strike the sea with his staff. To their astonishment, the sea parted, forming a dry path for the believers to escape.
As the Children of Israel crossed the sea on dry land, Pharaoh and his army pursued them into the divided waters. However, divine intervention was at play. Allah commanded the sea to return to its original state, submerging Pharaoh and his army beneath the waves. The believers were delivered from their oppressor, and the tyrant's arrogance met its end.
Fasting in this sacred day
Narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) fasted on the day of Ashura and recommended Muslims to fast as well. He said, "Fasting the day of Ashura (10th Muharram) expiates for the sins of the past year." (Sahih Muslim)
It was narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) observed the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He asked them about the significance of this day, and they informed him that it was a day of great importance, as it marked the liberation of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) responded by affirming our connection to Prophet Musa and the Children of Israel but added, "We are more worthy of following Musa than you are." He then fasted on the day of Ashura and encouraged the Muslims to fast as well. To further distinguish our practice from that of the Jews, he also recommended fasting on the 9th of Muharram (the day before Ashura).
While the significance of fasting on Ashura is emphasized, it is important to remember that fasting on this day is not obligatory. It is Sunnah (recommended) to fast, but it's not mandatory.
As we approach the day of Ashura, let us seize the opportunity to engage in acts of worship, remembrance, and reflection. Take this day as an opportunity to seek forgiveness from Allah, renew our faith, and draw closer to Him through sincere devotion.
May this blessed day be a means of mercy, blessings, and guidance for all of us. May Allah accept our deeds and grant us the strength to increase our worship and devotion in the coming days.
Assalamu’alaikum and see you again in the next blog post š¤.
- MuslimSpace
