Ref: ACJU/FTW/01/001/2025
2025.07.03 (1447.01.07)
The 10th day of the month of Muharram is known as ‘A’shura’. On this day, Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) observed fasting as a way of showing gratitude to Allah Ta’ala, who saved him and his people from the oppressive rule of Pharaoh.
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) also fasted on this day and instructed His Companions (Sahabah) (May Allah be pleased with them) to do the same.
Therefore, fasting on the day of A’shura is a Sunnah, and it serves as an expiation for the (minor) sins of the previous year.
Abu Qatadah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“I hope from Allah that fasting on the day of Ashura will expiate for the sins of the previous year.” (Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhi – 752)
It is also a Sunnah to fast on the 9th day of Muharram along with the 10th day.
For those who are unable to fast on the 9th and 10th, it is Sunnah to fast on the 10th and 11th instead.
Imam al-Shafi’i (May Allah have mercy on him) mentioned that fasting on all three days (9th, 10th, and 11th) is preferable. At the same time, fasting only on the 10th is also permissible.
This year, the 9th, 10th, and 11th days of Muharram fall on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday – i.e., 05th, 06th, and 07th July 2025.
Since the fasting of Ashura is established as a Sunnah through authentic Hadiths, it is permissible in Shari’ah to observe fast on Sunday (06.07.2025) alone, as well.
May Allah Ta’ala grant all of us the ability to observe these fasts.
Allah, the All-Knowing, knows best.
Ash-Shaikh H. Omardeen
(Acting) President
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama
Ash-Shaikh M.T.M. Salman
(Acting) Secretary – Fatwa Committee
All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama
