The Importance of ‘Ashura, the 10th Day of Muharram

Ashura is a sacred day for Muslims, especially for Sunni Muslims, who observe it with fasting and prayers. It marks two historical events that show God’s mercy and guidance: the day Nuh (Noah) left the Ark after the great flood, and the day Musa (Moses) was saved from the Pharaoh by God’s miracle of parting the Red Sea .

Sunni Muslims follow the example of Prophet Muhammad, who fasted on Ashura and encouraged his companions to do the same. According to a hadith (a report of the Prophet’s words or actions), Muhammad said: “Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope, will expiate for the sins of the previous year.” Therefore, many Sunni Muslims fast on this day, or on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, to seek God’s forgiveness and blessings.

Sunni Muslims also use this day to reflect on God’s power and wisdom, and to express gratitude for His favors. They also remember the sacrifices and struggles of previous prophets and righteous people, such as Nuh and Musa, who endured hardships and trials for God’s sake. They also respect the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala on Ashura . Although Sunni Muslims do not mourn or commemorate Hussein as intensely as Shia Muslims do, they still honor him as a noble and courageous leader who stood up for justice.

Ashura is a day of great significance and spirituality for Sunni Muslims. It reminds them of God’s mercy, guidance, and power. It also inspires them to follow the examples of righteous people who obeyed God and defended His cause. It is a day of fasting, praying, and thanking God for His countless blessings.