Ashura: Historical Events and Spiritual Lessons – Between Truth and Innovation
Introduction: Ashura, the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, holds profound religious and historical significance in Islam. This day is marked by key events, such as the salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) from Pharaoh and the tragic martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) at Karbala in 61 AH. Ashura offers a rich tapestry of faith, sacrifice, and divine gratitude.
This article explores the major events of Ashura, the correct practices endorsed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and highlights the spiritual and educational lessons derived from authentic Sunni sources. We will also clarify common misconceptions and differentiate between authentic Sunnah and cultural innovations (bid’ah).
Section One: Major Historical Events of Ashura
1. The Salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses)
One of the greatest events of Ashura is the deliverance of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) and the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny. This event is authentically documented in Hadith:
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace be upon him) came to Madinah and found the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He said, “What is this?” They replied, “This is a righteous day. It is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy, so Musa fasted on this day.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “We are closer to Musa than you.” So he fasted it and commanded others to fast. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2004)
This Hadith emphasizes the theological value of Ashura as a day of divine intervention and gratitude. It teaches that thanking Allah should be shown through righteous deeds, such as fasting.
2. Fasting on Ashura by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) fasted Ashura before and after Hijrah, confirming its merit:
Narrated Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): “The Quraish used to fast on Ashura during the pre-Islamic period. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also used to fast on it. After migrating to Madinah, he continued fasting and ordered the people to fast. When Ramadan was made obligatory, he said: ‘Whoever wishes may fast it, and whoever wishes may leave it.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2002)
Abdullah ibn Abbas reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “I hope that Allah will expiate sins of the previous year for fasting on the day of Ashura.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1162)
3. The Martyrdom of Imam Husayn (RA) in Karbala
In 61 AH, the beloved grandson of the Prophet, Husayn ibn Ali (RA), was martyred in the plains of Karbala. This tragic event, while painful, is well-documented by Sunni historians.
Ibn Kathir, in Al-Bidaya wa’l-Nihaya (vol. 8), elaborates on the betrayal Husayn faced when the people of Kufa invited him and then abandoned him. He was surrounded by the army of Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad, denied water, and eventually martyred along with his family and loyal companions.
Imam Ibn Abdul Barr stated in Al-Isti’ab (vol. 1): “The affliction that befell Husayn is among the trials that often afflict righteous believers. His martyrdom is unanimously affirmed by Ahl al-Sunnah.”
Regarding Yazid ibn Mu’awiyah, Sunni scholars held differing views:
- Ibn Kathir wrote: “Yazid showed sorrow when he heard of Husayn’s death and said, ‘I would have been content with less than killing Husayn.’” (Al-Bidaya wa’l-Nihaya, vol. 8)
- Ibn Taymiyyah stated: “Yazid neither ordered the killing of Husayn nor rejoiced at it. Therefore, cursing him is not permitted.” (Minhaj al-Sunnah, vol. 4, p. 554)
Section Two: Spiritual and Educational Lessons from Ashura
1. Patience in the Face of Injustice
Allah says: “Give glad tidings to the patient who, when afflicted with calamity, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.’” (Qur’an, 2:155–156)
The stance of Husayn (RA) and his companions is a model of steadfastness and honor, remaining firm even in extreme hardship.
2. Gratitude to Allah Through Worship
The Prophet (peace be upon him) fasted Ashura to thank Allah for saving Musa (AS), showing that worship is the best expression of gratitude.
Allah says: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor].” (Qur’an, 14:7)
3. Following the Prophets’ Legacy
The Prophet said: “We are closer to Musa than you” (Sahih Bukhari), teaching Muslims to follow the legacy of the prophets in tawheed (monotheism), gratitude, and struggle.
Section Three: Authentic Practices vs. Innovations on Ashura
1. Authentic Sunnah: Fasting on the 9th and 10th
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “If I live till next year, I will fast the 9th [of Muharram] too.” (Sahih Muslim)
Imam Nawawi commented: “Fasting the 9th and 10th is Sunnah to differ from the Jews.” (Sharh Sahih Muslim)
Some scholars also recommend fasting the 11th, based on narrations in Fath al-Bari.
2. Innovations Introduced by Certain Groups
A) Mourning and Self-Flagellation
Some groups observe Ashura with mourning ceremonies, self-flagellation, and chest-beating. These are not from the Sunnah.
Ibn Taymiyyah stated: “Acts of mourning and public grief on Ashura are newly invented innovations. Neither the Prophet nor the Companions practiced them.” (Fatawa Kubra, vol. 4, p. 510)
B) Celebration and Excessive Joy
In reaction, some celebrate Ashura with sweets and adornments. This, too, is an innovation.
Ibn al-Qayyim noted: “The Hadiths encouraging giving sweets or celebrating on Ashura are fabricated.” (Al-Manar al-Munif, p. 96)
Ibn Kathir confirmed: “Any act of celebration or mourning not based on the Sharia is a bid’ah.” (Al-Bidaya wa’l-Nihaya, vol. 8)
3. Balanced Sunni Perspective
Ahl al-Sunnah regard Ashura as a day of worship, not mourning or celebration. The balance lies in fasting, prayer, and reflection.
Imam al-Shatibi said: “Every innovation disguised as religion without Sharia evidence is rejected.” (Al-I’tisam, vol. 1, p. 49)
Section Four: The Sunni View of Husayn’s Stand
Husayn (RA) did not rebel for political power but intended to rectify the Ummah. His ijtihad (independent reasoning) was sincere, though the outcome was tragic.
Ibn Taymiyyah said: “Husayn was martyred unjustly. His death is among the greatest crimes.” (Minhaj al-Sunnah, vol. 4)
Ibn al-Qayyim added: “Husayn was honored with martyrdom, and his intention was noble. His ijtihad is not to be criticized.” (Zad al-Ma’ad, vol. 3)
Section Five: How Muslims Should Observe Ashura Today
1. Revive the Sunnah – Fast, Not Mourn or Celebrate
Ashura is for fasting, worship, and remembering Allah’s favors — not for innovation.
2. Learn From History – Don’t Revive Sectarian Conflict
The tragedy of Karbala must be studied for lessons, not to stir modern divisions. Allah says: “That was a nation who has passed away.” (Qur’an, 2:134)
3. Maintain Balance and Justice
Avoid extremes: neither glorifying tyrants nor indulging in endless grief. Islam commands moderation:
“Thus We have made you a just nation…” (Qur’an, 2:143)
Conclusion:
Ashura is a day of profound remembrance in Islam. It commemorates divine victory and painful martyrdom. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a time to fast, pray, reflect, and follow the Sunnah. It is neither a festival nor a funeral.
We must base our understanding on the Qur’an, authentic Hadith, and the path of the righteous Salaf. Innovations must be avoided, and spiritual growth pursued.
May Allah guide us to uphold the Sunnah, honor the righteous, and avoid all forms of extremism.
