Today is Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, one of the most blessed days in the Islamic calendar. It is a day that carries a powerful message of faith, hope, gratitude, and trust in Allah. For believers, Ashura is not merely a historical remembrance but a living reminder that Allah’s help is always near and that His mercy is greater than our shortcomings.
For those who are fasting today, it is a day of immense reward. For those who are not fasting, it is still a day that should be filled with remembrance, reflection, and gratitude to Allah.
A DAY THAT CHANGED HISTORY
Ashura marks the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh.
For years, they endured oppression, fear, and hardship. Pharaoh believed his power was absolute and that nobody could challenge his authority.
Yet Allah showed that no force on earth can overcome His will.
When Musa (AS) and his followers found themselves trapped between the sea and Pharaoh’s advancing army, the situation appeared impossible.
But Allah made a way where there seemed to be none.
The sea parted, the believers crossed safely, and Pharaoh’s army was destroyed.
This event became one of the greatest examples in history of Allah’s support for those who place their trust in Him.
THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS
Among the greatest blessings of Ashura is the reward attached to its fast.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ informed us that fasting on this day is a means through which Allah forgives the minor sins of the previous year.
This is a tremendous gift from our Lord.
Many people carry regrets from the past year. Mistakes were made, opportunities were missed, and sins were committed.
Ashura offers a chance to seek Allah’s mercy and move forward with renewed determination.
Every believer should approach this day with hope and sincerity.
GRATITUDE WAS THE BEGINNING
The origin of the Ashura fast is rooted in gratitude.
When Allah saved Musa (AS) and his people, he responded by fasting in thanks to Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ continued this practice and encouraged Muslims to observe it.
This teaches an important lesson.
The proper response to Allah’s blessings is worship.
Too often, people remember Allah only during hardship. Ashura reminds us that gratitude should be just as strong during times of ease and comfort.
A DAY OF HOPE
The story of Ashura is ultimately a story of hope.
It teaches that difficulties do not last forever.
Oppression does not last forever.
Pain does not last forever.
Fear does not last forever.
Allah’s help may arrive when it is least expected.
The sea did not part until Musa (AS) reached a point where there appeared to be no escape.
This reminds believers that even when solutions are not visible, Allah is capable of creating opportunities beyond human imagination.
WHAT SHOULD WE DO TODAY?
Ashura should be spent in worship and remembrance of Allah.
Those who are fasting should guard their tongues, protect their prayers, and increase their remembrance of Allah.
The day can also be filled with:
Recitation of the Qur’an.
Seeking forgiveness.
Making du’a.
Giving charity.
Sending blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ.
Reflecting upon the story of Musa (AS).
Thanking Allah for His countless blessings.
These acts help believers maximize the spiritual benefits of the day.
ASHURA AND THE NEW ISLAMIC YEAR
Since Ashura occurs near the beginning of the Islamic year, it also serves as a reminder to start the year with righteousness.
Many people set goals for worldly success, but Ashura encourages Muslims to focus on spiritual success as well.
It is an opportunity to renew intentions, strengthen faith, and commit to becoming better servants of Allah.
The best beginning to a year is one that starts with worship and obedience.
CONCLUSION
Ashura is a day unlike any other. It combines the lessons of gratitude, patience, trust, forgiveness, and hope into a single occasion filled with immense blessings.
As Muslims observe this special day, they should remember that the same Allah who saved Musa (AS) continues to guide and support His servants today.
May Allah accept our fasting, forgive our sins, answer our prayers, and make this Ashura a turning point toward greater faith, sincerity, and obedience. May He grant relief to those facing hardship and bless the Muslim Ummah with peace, guidance, and unity.
Ameen.
