"Ashura was a day that the Quraish used to fast during Jahiliyyah, and the Messenger of Allah used to fast it. But when (the fast of) Ramadan became obligatory, the Ramadan was the required and Ashura was left. So whoever wanted to, he fasted it, and whoever wanted to, he left it."
Hadith Context & Significance
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi 753 reveals the transitional period in Islamic legislation regarding fasting. The practice of fasting Ashura (10th of Muharram) predated Islam, observed by the Quraish and confirmed by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This demonstrates Islam's principle of retaining righteous pre-Islamic customs that align with Islamic monotheism.
Legal Ruling Evolution
Initially, fasting Ashura was obligatory or strongly emphasized. When Ramadan was mandated in the second year after Hijrah, the obligation shifted. Ashura fasting became recommended (mustahabb) rather than obligatory, granting Muslims choice in its observance while maintaining its spiritual merit.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that this hadith establishes the abrogation of Ashura's obligatory status. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes the wisdom in gradual legislation, allowing the community to adapt. The permissibility to omit Ashura fasting demonstrates Islam's ease and removal of hardship.
Spiritual Wisdom
Despite becoming optional, the Prophet ﷺ continued fasting Ashura and encouraged it. Scholars emphasize its virtue in expiating minor sins of the previous year. This reflects Islam's balance between obligatory acts and supererogatory worship, allowing believers to increase in righteousness voluntarily.