What Is The Day Of Ashura In Islam? Know The History, Significance Along With Wishes To Share With Loved Ones

By Oneindia Staff

Published: Tuesday, July 16, 2024, 10:00 [IST]

The Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound significance for Muslims around the world. This day is marked by historical events, religious observances, and deep spiritual meaning.

It is a day of reflection, mourning, and fasting, recognized for its historical and theological importance within Islam. This year it will be celebrated on 17 July 2024. Let us know the history and significance of Ashura and offers heartfelt wishes for this solemn occasion.

Day of Ashura Significance and Celebration

What Is The Day Of Ashura In Islam?

Ashura, derived from the Arabic word "asharah" meaning ten, is observed on the 10th day of Muharram. For Sunni Muslims, it is a day of fasting and gratitude, commemorating the day Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh by God. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of profound mourning, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This dual significance underscores the diverse ways in which Ashura is observed across the Islamic world.

Day Of Asura: History And Significance

The Exodus and the Significance for Sunni Muslims

For Sunni Muslims, the Day of Ashura is primarily associated with the deliverance of the Israelites from the tyranny of Pharaoh. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Musa and his followers were miraculously saved when the Red Sea was parted, allowing them to escape, and then drowning Pharaoh's pursuing army. Prophet Muhammad observed fasting on this day in solidarity with Musa's gratitude to God. He recommended his followers to fast on this day, stating that it atones for the sins of the past year.

The Tragedy of Karbala and the Shia Observance

For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of intense sorrow and mourning, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions. Imam Hussain stood against the tyranny and oppression of the Umayyad caliph Yazid, leading to the Battle of Karbala. On the 10th of Muharram in 680 CE, Imam Hussain and his small band of followers were brutally killed, a tragedy that left an indelible mark on the collective memory of the Shia community.

This event is not only a historical incident but a symbol of the struggle against injustice and the ultimate sacrifice for truth and righteousness. The martyrdom of Imam Hussain is seen as a pivotal moment in Islamic history, highlighting the themes of justice, sacrifice, and steadfast faith.

How Is The Day Of Ashura Celebrated?

Sunni Practices

a. Fasting: Many Sunni Muslims fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, following the Prophet's recommendation to distinguish their practice from the Jewish tradition of fasting on the 10th alone.

b. Prayers and Recitations: Special prayers and Quranic recitations are performed, seeking forgiveness and divine blessings.

c. Charity and Good Deeds: Acts of charity and helping the less fortunate are encouraged, reflecting the spirit of compassion and solidarity.

Shia Practices

a. Majlis (Gatherings): Shia Muslims gather for majlis, or religious assemblies, where scholars recount the events of Karbala, and participants engage in communal mourning and reflection.

b. Processions: Mourning processions, known as "Azadari," are held where participants chant elegies, and some engage in symbolic acts of self-flagellation to express their grief and solidarity with the suffering of Imam Hussain.

c. Charitable Acts: Similar to their Sunni counterparts, Shia Muslims also emphasize charity and helping those in need as part of the Ashura observance.

d. Recitation of Ziyarat Ashura: A special prayer, known as Ziyarat Ashura, is recited to honor Imam Hussain and his companions, seeking their intercession and blessings.