Observing Fast on the Day of Ashura is although voluntary and not an obligation by Allah according to Quran and Hadith, however, it is the most appreciated practice, following the example set by Prophet PBUH and his people 1400 years ago.
According to Abu Hurayrah – (Reported by Muslim, 1982),
“The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘The best of fasting after Ramadhan is fasting Allah’s month of Muharram.”
It is also noteworthy to mention that Prophet PBUH loved fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram every year. When Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W) moved to Madinah, he noticed that the Jews used to fast on the 10th of Muharram in gratitude to Allah for saving Hazrat Musa (A.S) from Pharaoh. Therefore, Prophet PBUH insisted upon the followers as well to fast on the 10th Muharram,
“This is a great day on which Allah saved Moses and drowned the folk of Pharaoh. Moses observed the fast on this day, as a sign of gratitude to Allah. I am closer to Moses than they.” – Ibn Abbas (Sahih Al-Bukhari Hadith – 4.609)
The importance of fasting on the Day of Ashura can be understood by this Ibn Abbaas narration,
“I never saw Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of ‘Aashoora’ and this month, meaning Ramadan.” (Al-Bukhari)
However, Prophet (PBUH) advocated for Muslims to fast on distinct days from the Jews recommending to fast on the 9th of Muharram as well.
Despite its voluntary nature, fasting on the Day of Ashura remains an important act of faith.
