Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds a unique place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It marks the beginning of the Hijri year and is revered as one of the four sacred months in Islam. As we welcome the new Islamic year, it’s a perfect time for self-reflection and setting intentions for improvement.
One of the most meaningful ways to embrace a fresh start is by fasting on the day of Ashura (the 10th day of Muharram). This blog explores the virtues and significance of Muharram fasting, shedding light on its historical, spiritual, and communal dimensions.
Historical Significance
The importance of fasting on the day of Ashura can be traced back to the Prophet Muhammad SAW. It is narrated that when the Prophet SAW migrated to Medina, he found that the Jews of the city observed fasting on Ashura in gratitude for the deliverance of Moses and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny. In response, the Prophet SAW remarked that the Muslims have more claim over Moses than the Jews, so he fasted on that day and encouraged his followers to do the same.
“When the Prophet SAW arrived at Madinah, the Jews were observing the fast on Ashura, and they said, ‘This is the day when Moses became victorious over Pharaoh.’ On that, the Prophet ﷺ said to his companions, ‘You (Muslims) have more right to celebrate Moses’ victory than they have, so observe the fast on this day.’”
[Sahih Al-Bukhari]
Moreover, fasting on Ashura was initially obligatory for Muslims, but after the prescription of Ramadan as the month of obligatory fasting, it became a recommended (mustahabb) act. The Prophet SAW said:
“Fasting on the day of Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year” (Muslim).
This hadith underscores the immense spiritual reward associated with this practice, emphasizing its role in seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy.
Spiritual Benefits of Muharram Fasting
1. Expiation of Sins: As mentioned, fasting on Ashura is a means of expiation for the minor sins of the previous year. This act of worship offers Muslims a profound opportunity to cleanse their souls and start the new year with a purified heart, reflecting a renewed commitment to righteous living.
2. Strengthening Faith and Taqwa: Fasting is a form of self-discipline that nurtures taqwa (God-consciousness). By abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs, believers remind themselves of their dependence on Allah SWT and reinforce their commitment to His commandments. This heightened state of spiritual awareness is especially significant at the beginning of the Islamic year, setting a tone of piety and devotion for the months to come.
3. Empathy and Compassion: Fasting fosters empathy toward those who are less fortunate. By experiencing hunger and thirst, even temporarily, Muslims are reminded of the daily struggles faced by millions worldwide. This consciousness encourages charitable acts and a more profound sense of social responsibility. Fasting also helps you be more grateful for the blessings that Allah SWT has given you.
4. Personal Growth and Resilience: Fasting instils patience, resilience, and self-control. These virtues benefit your spiritual life and translate into personal growth and better coping mechanisms in the face of life’s challenges.
Communal Benefits
1. Unity and Solidarity: Muslims worldwide observe fasting during Muharram, particularly on Ashura. This shared act of worship fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among the ummah (Muslim community). It is a collective reminder of the common faith and shared values that bind Muslims together.
2. Continuing the legacy of Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him): As we have seen in the previous hadith, Ashura is commonly associated with the time when the Prophet SAW arrived in Madinah. However, its importance can be traced back to an earlier time when the Quraysh tribe used to fast this day before Islam. Aisha (RA) tells us:
“During the pre-lslamic Era of Ignorance (Jahiliyya), the Quraysh used to observe fasting on the day of Ashura, and the Prophet SAW himself used to observe fasting on it too. But when he came to Madinah, he (continued) fasting the day and ordered the Muslims to fast it too. When (the command of fasting) Ramadan was revealed, fasting in Ramadan became an obligation, and fasting on Ashura was made voluntary. Whoever wished to fast it did so, and whoever did not wish to fast on it, did not fast.”
[Sahih Al-Bukhari 4504]
3. Encouragement of Other Acts of Worship: The heightened spiritual atmosphere during Muharram often encourages Muslims to engage in additional acts of worship, such as increased prayer, recitation of the Quran, and charitable deeds. This creates a ripple effect, where the observance of one virtuous act inspires further righteousness within the community.
Practical Aspects of Muharram Fasting
While fasting on the day of Ashura holds significant virtue, the Prophet Muhammad SAW also recommended fasting on the 9th of Muharram to distinguish Islamic practices from those of other faiths. He said, “If I live until the next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth (of Muharram)” (Muslim). This recommendation to fast on both the 9th and 10th days enhances the spiritual benefits and further aligns with the Prophetic tradition.
For those intending to fast in Muharram, here are some practical tips:
1. Preparation: Like any act of worship, mental and physical preparation is key. Plan your meals to ensure you have a nutritious suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and a balanced iftar (meal to break the fast) that provide sustained energy throughout the day.
2. Intention (Niyyah): Ensure your intention to fast is clear and made solely for the sake of Allah SWT. This conscious decision amplifies the spiritual rewards and keeps your focus on the purpose of fasting.
3. Spiritual Engagement: Use the time of fasting to engage in additional acts of worship, such as reading the Quran, making dhikr (remembrance of Allah SWT), and offering extra prayers. This will help deepen your spiritual connection and maximize the benefits of fasting.
Conclusion
Fasting in the holy month of Muharram, particularly on the day of Ashura, is a practice steeped in historical significance and spiritual merit. It offers Muslims a unique opportunity to seek Allah’s forgiveness, strengthen their faith, and cultivate virtues of patience, empathy, and resilience. Through Muharram fasting and devotion to Allah SWT, we pray for His mercy and guidance in the year ahead and strive to embody the noble qualities that fasting seeks to instil within us.