The people used to fast on 'Ashura (the tenth day of the month of Muharram) before the fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory. And on that day the Ka`ba used to be covered with a cover. When Allah made the fasting of the month of Ramadan compulsory, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Whoever wishes to fast (on the day of 'Ashura') may do so; and whoever wishes to leave it can do so."
Historical Context of 'Ashura Fasting
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 1592 reveals that fasting on 'Ashura (10th of Muharram) was an established practice among the pre-Islamic Arabs, later continued by Muslims until Ramadan became obligatory. The covering of the Ka'ba mentioned indicates the sacred status of this day even in the Jahiliyyah period.
Legal Ruling and Wisdom
After Ramadan's obligation, the Prophet (ﷺ) granted choice regarding 'Ashura fasting, demonstrating the principle of nasikh (abrogating) and mansukh (abrogated) in Islamic law. This reflects Allah's mercy in gradual legislation.
Scholars interpret this as the ruling changing from obligation to recommendation (mustahabb), showing how divine law accommodates human circumstances while maintaining opportunities for extra worship.
Significance and Continuity
Though no longer obligatory, fasting 'Ashura remains highly recommended, expiating the sins of the previous year. This preservation of virtuous pre-Islamic practices, when purified from shirk, illustrates Islam's continuity with pure monotheistic tradition.
The Prophet's maintenance of this practice after the Hijrah indicates its importance in connecting Muslims to the legacy of previous prophets, particularly Prophet Musa's salvation from Pharaoh.