The Virtue of Fasting on Tasu’a and Ashura
Fasting on Tasu'a and Ashura is among the recommended practices in Islam and carries great significance due to the numerous virtues mentioned in prophetic traditions. These two days correspond to the 9th and 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, holds a special place in Islamic history. It is the day when Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) and his people from Pharaoh and his army. Prophet Musa fasted on this day in gratitude to Allah. When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) arrived in Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on this day and said: "We have more right to Musa than you." Thus, he fasted on this day and encouraged others to do so (narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).
149 4/08/2024
fasting
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147 4/08/2024
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155 4/08/2024
fasting
The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are blessed days in Islam, filled with great virtues and rewards. These days are considered among the best days of the year, as mentioned in several prophetic traditions. Fasting during these days is among the righteous deeds that Muslims are encouraged to perform due to the significant status […]
Prophetic Hadiths on the Virtue of Fasting Tasu’a and Ashura
Hadith of Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him):
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “I have not seen the Prophet seeking to fast on a day, giving it preference over other days, but this day, the day of Ashura, and this month, meaning Ramadan.” (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).
This hadith highlights the importance of fasting on the day of Ashura, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) prioritized fasting on this day.
Hadith of Abu Qatada al-Ansari (may Allah be pleased with him):
Abu Qatada al-Ansari (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Fasting on the day of Ashura is an expiation for the sins of the previous year.” (Narrated by Muslim).
This hadith shows the great virtue of fasting on Ashura, as it expiates the minor sins of the previous year.
Hadith of Ibn Abbas on Fasting Tasu’a:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “If I live until the next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth (of Muharram).” (Narrated by Muslim).
This hadith indicates the desirability of fasting on the 9th of Muharram, known as Tasu’a, along with Ashura, to differentiate from the Jews and to show distinction from them.
Benefits of Fasting Tasu’a and Ashura
Expiation of Sins:
Fasting on Ashura expiates the minor sins of the previous year, which is a great blessing that Muslims should take advantage of.
Differentiating from the People of the Book:
By fasting on Tasu’a along with Ashura, Muslims differentiate themselves from the Jews who only fast on Ashura, thereby emphasizing Islamic identity.
Reviving the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him):
Fasting on these days is an opportunity to revive the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and to follow his example.
Strengthening Faith and Drawing Closer to Allah:
Fasting is an act of worship that strengthens faith, enhances one’s relationship with Allah, and fosters patience and perseverance.
Earning Reward and Blessings:
These days provide Muslims with an opportunity to increase their good deeds and draw closer to Allah through acts of righteousness and devotion.
149 4/08/2024
fasting
The month of Ramadan is one of the greatest months in Islam. It is the month in which the Quran was revealed, and Allah has made fasting during it obligatory for Muslims as one of the five pillars of Islam. Ramadan is distinguished by great virtues and offers numerous opportunities to draw closer to Allah […]
147 4/08/2024
fasting
The Day of Arafah, the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, is one of the most significant days in the Islamic calendar. It falls during the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat to perform the essential rite of standing (wuquf). This day carries immense spiritual significance and is marked […]
155 4/08/2024
fasting
The first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah are blessed days in Islam, filled with great virtues and rewards. These days are considered among the best days of the year, as mentioned in several prophetic traditions. Fasting during these days is among the righteous deeds that Muslims are encouraged to perform due to the significant status […]
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