Islamic Events Day of Ashura 2025

When is Ashura 2025?

Day of Ashura or 10 Muharram 2025 is expected to take place on the 16th or 17th of July, 2025 (10th Muharram accordingly). However, the exact date of Ashura 2025 depends on your location and sighting of the Moon of Muharram 1447.

Islamic Calendar 2025

The Month of Muharram

Muharram is not only the 1st month of the Islamic Calendar but also called ‘The month of Allah’ and Optional (Nafil) fasting during this month is considered the most rewarding after the month of Ramadan. This is evident from the following Sahih Hadith:

"‘The Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.) said: “The best fasting after the month of Ramadan is the month of Allah, Al-Muharram.”’

(An-Nasai: 1613)

Also, Muharram is one of the four sanctified months of the year. As Allah Says in Quran:

“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred.”

(Surah At-Taubah: 9:36)

The four months mentioned in the Ayah are the months of Dhul-Qadah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. This is evident from the words of Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) on the occasion of his last Hajj sermon:

“The year is of twelve months, out of which four months are sacred: Three are in succession Dhul-Qa' da, Dhul-Hijja and Muharram, and (the fourth is) Rajab.”

(Sahih Bukhari: 3197)

This is the reason that Muharram is one of the sacred months and these words of our Prophet (S.A.W.) confirm its sanctity.

Day of Ashura

Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram and it is the most sacred day among all its days.

Some other people attribute the sanctity of this day to the martyrdom of Husain Ibn Ali (R.A.) but the sacredness of 'The day of Ashura' cannot be ascribed to this event only as the sanctity of this day was established during the days of the Prophet (S.A.W.), much earlier than the birth of Husain Ibn Ali (R.A.). The martyrdom of Husain Ibn Ali (R.A.) is one of the most tragic episodes of our history and it is one of the merits of Husain (R.A.) this sad event in Karbala took place on the day of Ashura as Allah chooses important days for important decisions.​

Ashura Fasting

The practice of fasting on Ashura was known even before the rise of Islam. When the Prophet (S.A.W.) arrived in Madinah at the time of migration, the Jews were observing the fast on 'Ashura' and they said:

"This is the day when Moses became victorious over Pharaoh,"

On that, the Prophet (S.A.W.) said to his companions (R.A.):

"You (Muslims) have more right to celebrate Moses' victory than they have, so observe the fast on this day."

(Sahih Bukhari: 4680)

When different Companions (R.A.) told Prophet (S.A.W.) that fasting on the day of Ashura is glorified among Jews and Christians, then Prophet (S.A.W.) encouraged them by saying:

“If I live until next year, I will fast the ninth day (of Muharram) too.”

(Ibn Majah: 1736)

Unfortunately, Prophet (S.A.W.) did not live to see the next year. Therefore, Muslims consider the 9th and 10th of Muharram as significant days in the Islamic calendar and observe fast on these days. [Sahih Muslim: 1134 (a)]

In the light of the Hadith, it is more advisable but not mandatory that the fast of 10th of Muharram should be attached with another fast preferably on 9th of Muharram because Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) wanted to distinguish the Islamic way of fasting from that of Jews as they only fast on the 10th of Muharram. However, most scholars agree that the fast of Ashura should be observed with fasting on the 9th or 11th of Muharram.

Earlier on, it was obligatory to fast on the 10th of Muharram. However, later, fasting was made obligatory in Ramadan only, and fasting on 10th Muharram was made optional. As narrated by Ayesha (R.A.) that Prophet (S.A.W.) said:

“Whoever wishes to fast (on the day of ‘Ashura’) may do so; and whoever wishes to leave it can do so.”

(Sahih Bukhari: 1592)

However, Prophet (S.A.W.) used to fast on the day of Ashura even after the fasting in Ramadan was made obligatory.

When Ibn Abbas (R.A.) was asked about observing of fast on the day of Ashura, whereupon he said:

“I do not know Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) singling out any day's fast and considering it more excellent than another, except this day (the day of Ashura) and this month, meaning the month of Ramadan.”

[Sahih Muslim: 1132 (a)]

So fasting on the day of ’Ashura' is a confirmed Sunnah of the Holy Prophet and makes one entitled to a great reward from Allah.

According to Sahih Hadith, one of the many blessings of Allah for a person who observes fast on ‘Day of Ashura’ is that his / her sins of the past year will be forgiven.

Narrated from Abu Qatada (R.A.) that the Prophet (S.A.W.) said:

“Fasting the day of ‘Ashura’, I hope, will expiate for the sins of the previous year.”

(Ibn Majah: 1738)

The Hadith clearly mentions the word of Prophet (S.A.W) as “I hope” which means that the person should observe the fast wholeheartedly for Allah only and seek reward from Allah only and, Inshallah, Allah almighty will reward that person by forgiving his sins that he committed in the previous year.​

Misconceptions about Ashura

The above discussion undoubtedly shows the importance and virtues of the day of Ashura as it is a day of Allah’s blessings and it is confirmed Sunnah to observe fast on this day. However, there are some misconceptions about the day of Ashura that have managed to find their way into the minds of some Muslims. Some very common misconceptions and superstitions are:

1- Prophet Adam (A.S.) was created by Allah on this day

2- Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) was born on the 10th of Muharram

3- Prophet Adam’s (A.S.) repentance was accepted by Allah on this day

4- Day of Judgement will take place on Friday, 10th of Muharram

5- Whoever takes bath on the 10th of Muharram will never get ill

6- One who puts kohl in his eyes on this day will not suffer from any eye disease

7- Some people say that it is Sunnah to prepare a particular type of meal on this particular day and then distribute it

8- Many Muslims don’t get married (Nikkah) during the month of Muharram as they think that it is an unlucky month

Nothing has been reported in any Sahih Hadith from the Prophet (S.A.W.) or from his Companions (R.A.) about any of the above-mentioned incidents. Even, none of the four Imams encouraged or recommended such things. Not even a single reliable Islamic Scholars has narrated anything like this. So all these are just myths and have nothing to do with Islam or Shariah. So all these things should be avoided and should not be followed by any Muslim.



In addition to that, according to Sahih Muslim: 1163 (a) and Tirmidhi: 438, Muharram is Allah’s month. Then how can Allah’s month be evil and unlucky for His servants? So keep yourself away from these falsehoods and try to keep yourself on the right path, on the path of our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.) and his Companions (R.A.).

Conclusion

As mentioned above, fasting on the day of Ashura is confirmed Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.), and one should also not forget that Muharram is Allah’s month.

By observing fast on the Day of Ashura and doing good deeds, we will be reviving one of our Prophet’s (S.A.W) Sunnah, and whoever revives Sunnah of Prophet (S.A.W.), he/she will be with our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.) in paradise according to the following Hadith, narrated by Anas bin Malik (R.A.) that Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.) said:

“Whoever revives my Sunnah then he has loved me. And whoever loved me, he shall be with me in Paradise.'"

(Tirmidhi: 2678)

Also, strengthen your relationship with Allah through regular Dhikr and Duas and by helping other Muslims. And Allah rewards every good deed.

May Allah help us in strengthening our Imaan and also accept the good deeds of all Muslims.

AMEEN​

Significance Of Ashura - 10th Of Muharram

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Ashura 2023, 1445
We begin reflection of Ashura by the Words of Allah SWT

4Indeed, Pharaoh transgressed in the land and divided its people into groups. He persecuted a group among them by slaughtering their sons and keeping their females alive. Surely, he was one of those who spread corruption (on earth) [28:4]

Muharram is from the sacred months and comes at the beginning of the FOUR of them.
Al Hassan Al Basree (May Allah have mercy on him) said: Allah Almighty opened the year with a sacred month, that is Muharram and concluded the year with a sacred month that is Dhul Hijjah.
It is the only month that is known as “The Month of Allah” as in the Hadith where Rasoolullah SAS calls it : شَهْرُ اللَّهِ الْمُحَرَّمُ
Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA), Rasoolullah SAS said: أَفْضَلُ الصِّيَامِ بَعْدَ رَمَضَانَ شَهْرُ اللَّهِ الْمُحَرَّمُ وَأَفْضَلُ الصَّلاَةِ بَعْدَ الْفَرِيضَةِ صَلاَةُ اللَّيْلِ مسلم The most excellent fast after Ramadan is God's month. al-Muharram, and the most excellent prayer after what is prescribed is prayer during the night. Muslim
Al-Qurtubi said: Fasting in Muharram is the best fasting, because it is the beginning of the year and it opens with fasting, which is the best of deeds. Ashura

Ashura

The 10th of Ashuraa is one of such virtuous days of Fasting
A day when Allah SWT grants victory to
o Prophet Musa (AS) and the Believers
o While defeat was granted to falsehood - to Pharaoh and his people.
This victory is still a matter of consideration for us.
o We are still in a world of Pharaohs fighting Believers
o So, we sure can learn from the struggle that Prophet Musa (AS) had with the ruthless Pharaoh.
Thus, it is highly recommended for us to fast on this day out of gratitude to Allah
A lesson how Allah SWT causes His righteous servants to inherit the earth.
As Allah Almighty said: Quran وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ Allāh has promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He will surely grant them authority on the earth just as He granted it to those before them An Nur (24:55)

The martyrdom of the beloved grandson of Rasoolullah SAS

We also recall another incident in the history of Islam which also took place on the 10th of Muharram and that is the martyrdom of Hussain (RA) the beloved grandson of Rasoolullah SAS. Hopefully next year we will discuss this in details by the grace of Allah SWT and this too is a struggle between the faith and sincerity of Hussain (RA) and insincerity and ruthlessness of those clamoring for power.

The Messenger of Allah PBUH said: “Hussain is from me, and I am from Hussain . Allah loves whoever loves Hussain. Hussain is a generation among the generations.” (Tirmidhi)​

History of Prophet Musa (AS)

Musa AS was a descendant from the lineage of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), and from the lineage of Prophet Yaqub (AS)
Over time, the people forgot the message of Islam
o Eventually they were overtaken by Pharoah – one of the mightiest rulers in history
o Egypt was the rich superpower of the world at that time.

However, he was also considered to be the most ruthless and oppressive leader in history and in addition he had power, authority and wealth.
No wonder why his story is depicted in so many verses in The Quran as a warning to today’s Pharaoh. And a hope for Believers.
Power and wealth made him exceedingly arrogant, and he went so far as to proclaim himself to be the lord of creation.

Allah SWT says:

Then he gathered his people and cried aloud, (23) Saying: “I am your lord, most high” (79:23-4)

Pharaoh, together with his ministers, Qarun and Haman, ruled the land with an iron rule.

Pharaoh heard that a leader will arise from Bani Israel

As time went by, Pharaoh was informed of the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) which Bani Israel would often talk about that there would be a leader from Bani Israel who would again lead them to a position of strength.
Pharaoh was greatly disturbed by these predictions, and as a precaution, ordered that all the pregnant women of Bani Israel be strictly monitored.
No woman delivered a baby boy without the Pharaoh’s army knowing about it, and thus these newborns were immediately killed in cold-blooded, systematic infanticide.
o Just imagine the horror! The murder of innocent babies!

In the Quran Allah SWT says:

4Indeed, Pharaoh transgressed in the land and divided its people into groups. He persecuted a group among them by slaughtering their sons and keeping their females alive. Surely, he was one of those who spread corruption (on earth) [28:4]

So, Pharaoh began this merciless killing of the young male babies
o How often we see this repeated throughout generations by tyrants and even till this day and age of a so-called civilized world of human rights.
Another evil of Pharaoh was to divide Bani Israel and enslaving them.
Today the Muslim Ummah has also become victim of this plot.
Ibaadallah! We are one Ummah, but unfortunately, we succumb to the same tactics what Pharaoh did to Bani Israel.

Alternate killings of the boys



So, Musa (AS) was born the year when the male infants were to be killed while his brother Harun was spared as Pharaoh was advised to alternate the years of killing to male born.
According to all the decree of the land, Musa AS should have been killed.
However, Musa’s (AS) life demonstrates

o the power of the Qadr of Allah above all human planning no matter how powerful their plots are
When the mother of Musa was pregnant for him, she went completely unnoticed.
But when he was born, she knew that if he was discovered, death was inevitable.
Allah (SWT) revealed in her heart, through a divine inspiration

7We (Allah) inspired the mother of Moses: “Nurse him (Moses) but when you fear for him, cast him into the river (to save him from being slaughtered by Pharoah’s soldiers) and do not be terrified or grieve. For sure, We will bring him back to you and will make him one of the Messengers.” [28:7]

Odds of survival

Think of this scenario! Put yourself in his mother’s shoes.
She feared for her child’s life, and of all the possibilities of his survival, was hurling him into the river in a makeshift basket-like boat.
So what were the odds of his survival in the swirling waters?
o If the army catches him, they kill him

o If Musa (AS) was thrown in the water he will most probably drown and die
Fast forward-- Isn’t this how Pharaoh and his army ended?
o Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel were at the river they cannot go further
o Pharaoh and his army were behind them

o The sea was in front of them and Pharaoh’s army behind. Either way spells death!
So what does it take to make such as decision?

It is nothing but complete faith and trust in Allah SWT.
The mother of Prophet Musa (AS) had that firm belief in Allah (SWT) and knew there was no better helper other than Him (SWT), something we should be striving for today.
With her mother’s instinct, she asked her daughter to follow the basket to see where it ended up.

10(At the same time) the heart of Moses’ mother was restless (wanting to be with her son again). She almost disclosed (everything about) him, had We not strengthened her heart (with faith), so she was among those who believed (in Our promise). 11She said to Moses’ sister: “Follow him.” So, she (his sister) watched him from a distance secretly without them realizing. (28:10-11)
What happens?

Of all the places, the current from the river carries the basket, directly to the palace of Pharaoh – the source of all their troubles!
A baby, recognizable as a Bani Israel; an Egyptian

In the year of slaughtering boys, he was delivered with the fastest means to the direct headquarters of Pharaoh; the man who decrees his execution. Allahu Akbar!
Allah SWT says: Quran

9The wife of Pharaoh said: “(He is) such a joy to look at for (both) you and I. Do not kill him, perhaps he may benefit us, or we may adopt him as a son.” And they had no idea (of Allah’s plan). [28:9]

The moment Asiyah (Pharaoh’s wife, may Allah bless her) laid eyes on baby Musa, Allah placed in her heart a love of this little boy, a love that can only come from Allah.
Pharaoh wanted him killed.

But by the power of Allah this baby who Pharaoh so wanted to kill altered the course of history… raised in his own home
Eventually he and Bani Israel were saved on a day like today-10th Muharram
This is the Power of Allah SWT. This is the essence of Ashura.​

What is the Day of Ashura?

There are certain days in the year which are more virtuous than others, one such day is the 10th of Muharram which is known as the Day of Ashura, falling in the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

The word Ashura is derived from the word “Asharah”, which means ten in Arabic.

It is believed the Day of Ashura commemorates various historical events, including the day when Prophet Moses (Musa) and the Israelites were saved from the tyranny of Pharaoh in Egypt.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) observed the Jews fasting on this day to commemorate their deliverance, and he recommended Muslims to also fast.

The Prophet (SAW) said: “We are closer to Musa than you are,” and advised Muslims to fast ‘Ashura’ either for three days (ninth, tenth, and eleventh); two days (ninth and tenth); or just the day of Ashura itself.

In Islam, Ashura is a solemn occasion, as it marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, along with his family members and companions, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

When is the Day of Ashura 2025?

The Day of Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, which is expected to be on 6th July 2025 in the UK. This is subject to change depending on the sighting of the moon.
What is the history and significance of the Day of Ashura?

The Battle of Karbala

The most significant event that occurred in the month of Muharram was the Battle of Karbala, which took place in Iraq in Muharram 61 AH.

It was fought between a small army consisting of the family and companions of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of the Prophet (PBUH), and a much larger army sent by Yazid ibn Muawiyah, the Umayyad Caliph at that time.

The battle took place because Imam Hussain (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid ibn Muawiyah, who was tyrannical and had taken it upon himself to assume the Muslim leadership after the death of his father.

On the 10th Muharram, the Day of Ashura, Imam Hussain (AS) was brutally martyred by the enemy camp. This is a very significant day in Islamic history as Imam Hussain (AS) and 72 other martyrs, mainly consisting of the male members of the family of the Prophet (PBUH) all nobly sacrificed their lives as a stand against oppression and to preserve Islam.

Imam Hussain (AS) was extremely close to and precious to the Holy Prophet (SAW). As a child, he would climb on the Prophet (SAW)’s back freely during prayer, and was beloved to him. He was brutally decapitated during the Battle of Karbala, which is one of the most tragic events to happen in Islamic History.

Imam Hussain’s significant position in Islam is highlighted in the following Hadith:​

Al-Husain is from me and I am from Al-Husain. Whoever loves Al-Husain is loved by Allah

Hadith | Musnad Ahmad
The story of Musa

On the Day of Ashura in the time of Prophet Musa (AS), Allah saved the Prophet and Bani Israel from the tyrannical Pharaoh and his army.

The Pharaoh was extremely violent and corrupt in his rule, and spread blasphemy as he declared himself as God. The Prophet Musa (AS) refused to follow the Pharaoh and instead encouraged him to worship Allah. The Pharaoh would not accept that there was a power higher than himself, and in response sent a large army to destroy the Prophet and his followers.

On the Day of Ashura, Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers were being chased by the army but trusted Allah alone in protecting them.

Prophet Musa (AS) made the following famous Dua which was later revealed in the Holy Quran:
“Truly my Lord is with me, He will guide me through.” (Quran 26:62)

As a result of his patience and firm faith in Allah’s help, Allah parted the Red Sea so that Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers could pass to safety. As punishment, the Pharaoh and his army were then submerged in the sea.

Then We inspired to Moses, “Strike with your staff the sea,” and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain. And We drew forward the others [i.e., the pursuers]. And We saved Moses and those with him, all together. Then We drowned the others. Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers. And indeed, your Lord – He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

Qur’an | Surah Ash-Shu'ara | 26:63-68
The story of Ashura and other Prophets

The Day of Ashura was also significant in the time of other prophets. For example, in the time of prophet Nuh (AS), some narrations say that on the day of Ashura, Allah returned his arc back to dry land after the flooding stopped. It was a day of relief and celebration for the Prophet and his devoted companions.

Some narrations also say that The Day of Ashura was also the day that Prophet Adam (AS) repented and was forgiven to Allah after eating the forbidden fruit, as well as the day that Prophet Yunus (AS) was released from the belly of the whale and Allah forgave his people.
Ashura Fasting

Muslims are encouraged to fast the Day of Ashura by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

I never saw the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of ‘Ashura’, and this month, meaning Ramadhan.

Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari
Why did the Prophet (PBUH) fast on Ashura?
Fasting the 9th of Muharram

The scholars of Islam consider it recommended to fast on the 9th of Muharram along with the 10th of Muharram (‘Ashura). This is due to the Hadith:

When the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) fasted on the day of ‘Ashura and told the people to fast, they said, “O Messenger of Allah, this is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.” The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, “Next year, if Allah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the time the following year came, the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) had passed away. (Muslim)

The Prophet (pbuh) wanted to fast on the 9th, in order to differ from the People of the Book.
Fasting the 11th of Muharram?

Some of the scholars also considered fasting on the 11th of Muharram to be recommended. This could be if one misses the 9th or it could be in order to ensure one catches the 10th of Muharram. Therefore it is virtuous to fast:

Just the day of Ashura
or to fast the 9th and 10th,
or to fast the 10th and 11th.
Some scholars would even fast the 9th, 10th and 11th of Muharram.​

Any one of these options is recommended.
Commemorating the Day of Ashura

As well as fasting the day of Ashura which is one of the most virtuous acts, there are many other beneficial deeds you can do which can earn great rewards on the blessed day.

These include giving Sadaqah and Zakat to help those in need across the world, as well as spending money on one’s family.

Prophet Muhammed (SAW) said, ‘’one who generously spends on his family on the day of Ashura, Allah (SWT) will be generous on him for the entire year (Baihaqi)

It’s also important to increase worship on the Day of Ashura, such as reading more Qur’an, sending salutations to the Prophet (PBUH) and offering naffal (optional) prayers. It’s also a good time to reflect on the significant events which took place on the Day of Ashura and to draw important lessons from them which can help us in our lives, for example to rely on the power of Allah to help us in our time of need.
Ziyarat Ashura and other duaas

The Shi‘a Muslim community offer a salutatory prayer to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of the battle of Karbala called The Ziyarat Ashura.
Give Sadaqah or Zakat on the Day of Ashura

One of the most virtuous acts of worship on Ashura is to give charity to our Muslim brothers and sisters suffering across the world. You can give your Sadaqah or Zakat with Islamic Relief.
Do Muslims observe Ashura differently?

For Shi‘a Muslims observing the day of Ashura, the period is marked by mourning, due to the anniversary of the martyring of Imam Hussain (AS), in the Battle of Karbala.

For Sunni Muslims, as well as being a time for mourning Imam Hussain and his companions, Ashura also commemorates when the Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) and the Children of Israeel were freed from Pharaoh and his pursuing army by Allah (SWT).
Virtues of 10th Muharram

Here are some recommended actions or Sunnah for Ashura.

Fast: Keep a fast on the 9th and 10th Muharram (the day of Ashura), or on the 10thand 11thMuharram. Fasting expiates sins.
Read the Qur’an: If you are unable to fast, reading the Qur’an or doing Dhikr can help you to feel the blessings of Muharram. Remember, any gathering for the sake of Allah SWT will also be filled with barakah and the Angels will join you.
Give Sadaqah: Helping those in need around the world is one of the most virtuous deeds and doing so on this blessed day can earn great rewards, It is also a Sunnah to spend money on one’s family on the day of Ashura.

Prophet Muhammed (SAW) said, ‘’one who generously spends on his family on the day of Ashura, Allah (SWT) will be generous on him for the entire year (Baihaqi)

On the authority of Abu Qatadah (ra) that the Messenger of Allah (saw), was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’, and he said, “It expiates [wipes out the minor sins of] the past year."

Hadith | Muslim

Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, so it’s the perfect time to make resolutions and establish good habits like giving regular charity, so that you can gain blessings all-year round.​