What is Ashura Muharram and What happened on Ashura ?

Dua-e-Ashura

The Powerful Supplication of the 10th of Muharram

Introduction to Ashura

The word “Ashura” originates from the Arabic root “Ashr,” meaning “ten.” It refers to the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. This sacred day holds immense significance in Islam due to the numerous divine events associated with it.

Why is it Called Ashura?

1. It falls on the 10th day of Muharram.
2. It is the culmination of ten blessed days.
3. Allah bestowed ten Prophets with miracles and salvation on this day.

Historical Events of Ashura

Many pivotal events in Islamic history occurred on Ashura:

• Prophet Adam (AS) was forgiven.
• Prophet Nuh (AS) and his followers were saved in the Ark.
• Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was rescued from the fire of Nimrod.
• Prophet Musa (AS) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh as the Red Sea parted.
• Prophet Isa (AS) was raised to the heavens.
• Prophet Muhammad (SAW) entered Madinah during the Hijrah.

According to Hazrat Ali (RA), the Prophet (SAW) said:

“Whoever revives the night before Ashura with worship, Allah will grant him a long, blessed life.”

Fasting on Ashura

When the Prophet (SAW) migrated to Madinah, he saw the Jews fasting on the 10th of Muharram. They explained that it commemorated the day Musa (AS) and his people were saved from Pharaoh. The Prophet (SAW) responded:

“We have more right to Musa than you.”
(Bukhari)

He then instructed Muslims to fast on Ashura and recommended fasting on the 9th or 11th to distinguish Islamic practice from Jewish tradition.

Virtues of Fasting on Ashura

1
Expiation of Sins: The Prophet (SAW) said: “Fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year.” (Muslim)
2
Following the Prophetic Tradition: “Fast on Ashura, as the Prophets before me did.” (Jami Sagheer)

Recommended Acts on Ashura

To maximize blessings, Muslims should engage in the following:

1
Fasting (9th, 10th, or 11th Muharram) – Fasting on Ashura is highly recommended.
2
Reciting Dua-e-Ashura – This powerful supplication brings protection, blessings, and forgiveness.
3
Charity (Sadaqah) – Giving charity on Ashura multiplies rewards.
4
Performing Nafl Prayers – Offering extra prayers brings immense blessings.
5
Reciting Surah Ikhlas 1000 Times – This Surah is a means of purification.
6
Showing Kindness to Orphans – Stroking an orphan’s head elevates one’s status in Jannah.

Dua-e-Ashura: The Key Supplication

One of the most significant acts on Ashura is reciting Dua-e-Ashura. This supplication is a means of:

• Seeking protection from calamities
• Attaining forgiveness for sins
• Receiving blessings for the entire year

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ
اللَّهُمَّ يَا مُفَرِّجَ كُلِّ كَرْبٍ وَيَا مُجِيبَ دَعْوَةِ الْمُضْطَرِّينَ…

How to Recite Dua-e-Ashura?

• Recite it on the 10th of Muharram.
• Preferably after Fajr or before Maghrib.
• With sincerity and trust in Allah’s mercy.

May Allah accept our worship and grant us the blessings of Ashura. Ameen.

This is a traditional practice, not a substitute for medical treatment, legal advice, or professional care. Scholars differ on some of these practices; where they differ, that difference is noted. Benefit and outcome are from Allah alone. If you are facing a medical, psychological, or financial emergency, seek qualified professional help first.