Hadith Text

The Prophet said: "Fast the Day of Ashura, for indeed I anticipate that Allah will forgive (the sins of) the year before it."

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 752 | The Book on Fasting by Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Commentary on the Meaning

This noble hadith establishes the virtue of fasting on the Day of Ashura, which is the tenth day of Muharram. The Prophet's anticipation (araja) indicates his strong hope and knowledge from Allah regarding this immense reward.

The forgiveness encompasses minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The phrase "year before it" refers to the entire previous lunar year, demonstrating Allah's boundless mercy.

Historical Context

When the Prophet migrated to Medina, he found the Jews fasting Ashura, commemorating Prophet Musa's salvation from Pharaoh. The Prophet affirmed this practice, saying: "We have more right to Musa than you," and commanded fasting to distinguish Islamic practice while maintaining its prophetic origin.

Legal Ruling & Practice

The majority of scholars consider fasting Ashura as a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah mu'akkadah). The most complete practice is to fast both the 9th and 10th of Muharram, as the Prophet intended to fast the 9th the following year (before his passing).

This differentiation from Jewish practice demonstrates the importance of maintaining Islamic identity while preserving the essence of divine teachings from previous prophets.