Ibn ‘Abbas said that God’s messenger came to Medina and found the Jews observing the fast on the day of ‘Ashura’, so he asked them what was the significance of that day which they were observing and they replied, “It is a great day on which God delivered Moses and his people and drowned Pharaoh and his people; so Moses observed it as a fast out of gratitude, and we do so also.” He said, “We have more right, and we have a closer connection with Moses than you have,” so God’s messenger observed it as a fast himself and gave orders that it should be observed. (Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Virtue of 'Ashura' Fasting
This narration establishes the excellence of fasting on the day of 'Ashura' (10th of Muharram) and demonstrates the wisdom behind its legislation. The Prophet's inquiry shows his careful consideration before establishing religious practices.
Following the Prophetic Tradition
The Jews of Medina preserved the tradition of Prophet Moses, peace be upon him, who fasted in gratitude for Allah's deliverance. This indicates how divine practices can be preserved among earlier communities.
The Prophet's statement "We have more right" establishes the principle that Muslims are the true inheritors of Abrahamic tradition, being followers of the final Prophet who came to confirm and complete earlier revelations.
Legal Ruling and Wisdom
Initially, fasting 'Ashura' was obligatory, but this was later abrogated when Ramadan fasting became obligatory. However, fasting 'Ashura' remains highly recommended (mustahabb) as confirmed in other authentic narrations.
The wisdom includes: expressing gratitude for Prophet Moses' deliverance, distinguishing Muslim practice by adding a day before or after (as later established), and maintaining connection with the Abrahamic prophetic tradition.