Today is the 10th of Muharram, the blessed day of Ashura, one of the most significant days in the Islamic calendar. It is a day filled with lessons of faith, patience, gratitude, and unwavering trust in Allah.
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) attached great importance to this day. When he arrived in Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. Upon asking the reason, they explained that it was the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel from Pharaoh. In gratitude to Allah, Musa fasted on that day. The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said, “We have more right to Musa than you,” and he fasted on the day and encouraged Muslims to do the same.
Ashura reminds Muslims that no matter how difficult a situation may appear, Allah’s help can arrive when least expected. Prophet Musa and his followers stood before the sea with Pharaoh’s army approaching from behind. Humanly speaking, there seemed to be no escape. Yet Allah commanded Musa to strike the sea with his staff, and the sea parted, creating a path to safety. The lesson is clear: believers should never lose hope in Allah’s mercy and assistance.
The day also teaches gratitude. Too often, people focus on what they do not have while overlooking countless blessings Allah has already bestowed upon them. Ashura encourages Muslims to pause, reflect, and thank Allah for life, health, family, guidance, and countless favors that cannot be fully counted.
Another important lesson from Ashura is the value of obedience to Allah. Prophet Musa did not question Allah’s command even when it seemed impossible. His complete trust in Allah became the means of salvation. Likewise, Muslims are reminded to obey Allah’s commands and avoid His prohibitions, trusting that His wisdom is always perfect.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) informed the Ummah of the great virtue of fasting on Ashura. He said that fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year. This tremendous reward highlights Allah’s mercy and His willingness to forgive those who seek His pleasure through sincere worship.
Ashura is also a reminder that truth ultimately triumphs over falsehood. Pharaoh possessed power, wealth, and a mighty army, but he was defeated because he stood against the command of Allah. Throughout history, oppressive forces have risen and fallen, while the message of truth continues to endure. Believers should therefore remain steadfast upon righteousness even when challenges seem overwhelming.
As Muslims observe Ashura today, they should increase in acts of worship, remembrance of Allah, supplication, charity, and reflection. It is a day to renew one’s commitment to faith and to seek Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.
The story of Ashura is not merely a historical event. It is a timeless message that Allah never abandons those who place their trust in Him. Difficulties may come, trials may persist, and challenges may appear insurmountable, but victory belongs to those who remain patient, sincere, and steadfast in their faith.
May Allah accept the fasting, prayers, and good deeds of all Muslims on this blessed day of Ashura and make us among those who learn from its lessons and implement them in our daily lives. Ameen.
