‘Ashura is the tenth of Muharram. The Prophet ﷺ fasted it in gratitude to Allah for saving Musa, peace be upon him, and encouraged Muslims to fast it voluntarily. Its fast is not obligatory.
Recommended actions
- Fast the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th, when able.
- Reflect on the story of Musa and thank Allah for His deliverance.
- Increase tawbah, du‘a, and remembrance of Allah.
- Do not treat the day as an Eid or introduce ritual practices without evidence.
References
Sahih Muslim 1130, 1134, and 1162. The promised expiation is understood to concern minor sins; major sins and the rights of others require specific repentance and restitution.