Ashura — The Day of Fasting
The Day of Ashura falls on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Hijri year. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ found the Jews of Madinah fasting on this day to commemorate the salvation of Moses and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh, and he instituted fasting on this day for Muslims.
Significance
The Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year. It is one of the most significant voluntary fasts in Islam. It is also recommended to fast the 9th of Muharram (Tasu'a) alongside it to differentiate from Jewish practice.
Traditions & Worship
Muslims observe a voluntary fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. Increased remembrance of Allah and supplication are encouraged. It is a day for reflection on the story of Prophet Moses and the blessings of divine salvation.