Ashura 2023: A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

Introduction

Ashura is an important religious observance observed by Muslims worldwide, commemorating significant events in Islamic history. This solemn day holds deep religious and historical significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, albeit with different interpretations and practices. In this article, we will explore the meaning and customs associated with Ashura, as observed up to September 2021.

1.The Meaning of Ashura

Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The word “Ashura” has Arabic roots, meaning “the tenth.” It holds special significance in Islamic tradition and is observed for various historical events that hold great importance to Muslims.

2.Historical Significance for Sunni Muslims

For Sunni Muslims, Ashura commemorates the following events:
a. Prophet Muhammad’s Observance: The Prophet Muhammad observed the fast on Ashura, following the Jewish practice of fasting on this day. However, once the fasting month of Ramadan was instituted, he encouraged Muslims to fast on the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram to distinguish from Jewish practice.
b. Noah’s Ark: According to some Islamic traditions, Prophet Noah’s (Nuh) ark came to rest on Mount Judi on Ashura after the great flood.
c. Moses’ Victory: It is believed that on this day, Moses (Musa) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny as the Red Sea was parted for them.

3.Historical Significance for Shia Muslims

Shia Muslims observe Ashura to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This battle is considered a defining moment in the split between Sunni and Shia Islam.
a. The Tragedy of Karbala: Imam Hussein, along with his family and a small group of followers, faced a large army loyal to the Umayyad caliph, Yazid I. Despite being outnumbered, Hussein refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid and stood for justice and righteousness. The battle resulted in the tragic martyrdom of Hussein and his companions.
b. Majlis and Mourning: Shia Muslims participate in Majlis (gatherings) where they recite elegies, narrate the events of Karbala, and express grief through various rituals. Some may even reenact scenes from the Battle of Karbala as a symbolic expression of their devotion and mourning.

4.Ashura Rituals and Observances

The way Ashura is observed varies among different Muslim communities and cultures:
a. Fasting: Many Sunni Muslims fast on Ashura, either on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th of Muharram. It is believed that fasting on Ashura brings forgiveness for the past year’s sins.
b. Matam and Azadari: Shia Muslims participate in matam (ritual chest-beating) and azadari (mourning) as acts of grief and solidarity with the sufferings of Imam Hussein and his companions.
c. Charity and Acts of Kindness: On Ashura, Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of charity and kindness, helping those in need and extending goodwill to others.
d. Reflection and Repentance: Both Sunni and Shia Muslims use Ashura as a time for self-reflection, repentance, and seeking forgiveness from Allah.

Conclusion

Ashura is a day of remembrance, reflection, and devotion observed by Muslims worldwide. For Sunni Muslims, it holds historical significance for multiple events, including Prophet Muhammad’s observance and the stories of Prophets Noah and Moses. For Shia Muslims, it is a solemn occasion to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and his companions at the Battle of Karbala. Despite their differences in observance, Ashura unites Muslims in their reverence for history and their shared values of compassion, self-discipline, and faith. As future Ashura dates approach, let us remember the spirit of unity and compassion that this sacred day signifies.