Ashura’ fasting is a form of worship in Islam that has virtues and deep meaning for Muslims. Observed every 10th of Muharram, this fast has strong historical and spiritual roots. This article will discuss in detail the Ashura’ fast, its virtues, and how an attitude of gratitude is implemented in daily religious practice.
History and Background of the Ashura’ Fast
The fast of ‘Ashura’ has a long history in Islamic tradition. In a hadith narrated by Imam Bukhari and Muslim, it is mentioned that when the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) migrated to Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’. They explained that it was the day on which Allah saved Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and the Children of Israel from the pursuit of Pharaoh. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) then said:
فَأَنَا أَحَقُّ بِمُوسَى مِنْكُمْ نَحْنُ نَصُوْمُهُ تَعْظِيْمًا لَهُ
‘I have more right to Moses than you (Jews), so we will fast on that day as a form of our honouring that day. And he fasted on that day and encouraged his companions to fast as well ‘(narrated by Bukhari).
The Virtues of Puasa Ashura’
The fast of ‘Ashura’ has many virtues that are explained in various traditions. One of the main virtues is that this fast can expiate the minor sins of the past year. In a tradition narrated by Muslim, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
وَسُئِلَ عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ فَقَالَ « يُكَفِّرُ السَّنَةَ الْمَاضِيَةَ وَالْبَاقِيَةَ ». قَالَ وَسُئِلَ عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ فَقَالَ « يُكَفِّرُ السَّنَةَ الْمَاضِيَةَ
‘The Prophet Shallallahu alaihi wa sallam was asked about the virtue of fasting Arafat. He replied, ‘Fasting Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the year to come.’ He was also asked about the virtue of fasting ‘Ashura’’? He replied, ‘Fasting “Ashoora will expiate the sins of the past year.” (HR Muslim no. 1162) Muslim no. 1162)
In addition, this fast is also a moment to remember and be grateful for the blessings of salvation that Allah ta’ala gave to His people. For example, the salvation of Prophet Musa Alaihissalam and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh is a symbol of the victory of truth over falsehood, which inspires Muslims to remain steadfast in faith and piety.
Implementation of Gratitude in Fasting Ashura’
The fast of Ashura’ is also a manifestation of a Muslim’s gratitude to Allah ta’ala. Gratitude in Islam is not only expressed with words but also with concrete actions. One of the tangible forms of gratitude is fasting, including the fast of ‘Ashura’. By fasting, a Muslim demonstrates their devotion and obedience to Allah ta’ala, while also remembering all the blessings bestowed upon them.
This gratitude can also be implemented in everyday life. For example, by increasing charity, doing good to others, and increasing other acts of worship such as prayer and reading the Qur’an. ‘Ashura’ fasting is a moment of reflection for Muslims to improve themselves and the quality of their worship as a form of gratitude for all the blessings that Allah has given.
Responding to Differences of Opinion on Ashura’ Fast
Different opinions exist regarding the practical implementation of the Ashura’ fast. Some scholars recommend fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram (Tasua and Ashura), while others add the 11th of Muharram. The aim is to distinguish the Muslim practice of fasting from that of the Jews.
The Messenger of Allah Shallallahu alaihi wa sallam said:
فَإِذَا كَانَ الْعَامُ الْمُقْبِلُ – إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ – صُمْنَا الْيَوْمَ التَّاسِعَ
‘When next year comes -insha Allah (if Allah wills)- we will also fast the ninth day’ (Muslim narration no. 1134).
This indicates that the Prophet Shallallahu alaihi wa sallam wished to add a fast on the ninth day of Muharram to make it different from the fast observed by the Jews.
His difference of opinion shows the diversity in understanding the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). However, the essence of fasting Ashura’ remains the same: to revive the spirit of devotion and gratitude to Allah ta’ala. Muslims are expected to respond to this difference wisely and stay focused on the main purpose of fasting.
The fast of ‘Ashura’ is one of great act of worship in Islam. With its rich history and deep spiritual significance, this fast is not only a means of expiating minor sins but also a form of gratitude to Allah ta’ala. We should express this gratitude not only through fasting but also in every aspect of our daily lives. Therefore, the Ashura’ fast can serve as a catalyst for every Muslim to enhance their faith and piety, and to increase their good deeds in gratitude for Allah ta’ala’s blessings.
Wallahu a’lam
References
Bukhari, M. I. (2002). Sahih Bukhari. Dar-us-Salam Publications.
Muslim, A. H. (2007). Sahih Muslim. Dar-us-Salam Publications.
MSc, M. A. T. (2013, November 11). Keutamaan Puasa Asyura. Rumaysho.com. https://rumaysho.com/3750-keutamaan-puasa-asyura.html
Musa dan Fir’aun | Almanhaj. (2022, July 25). Almanhaj.or.id. https://almanhaj.or.id/59179-musa-dan-firaun.html
لماذا يستحب صيام الحادي عشر مع يوم عاشوراء؟ – الإسلام سؤال وجواب. (n.d.). Islamqa.info. Retrieved May 29, 2024, from https://islamqa.info/ar/answers/128423/
أحكام ومسائل في صيام عاشوراء – الإسلام سؤال وجواب. (n.d.). Islamqa.info. Retrieved May 29, 2024, from https://islamqa.info/ar/articles/64/