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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Culture & Society

Key prophetic events mark the Islamic day of Ashura

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is a significant day in Islam, marking the anniversary of several pivotal events in the lives of prophets.
  • Key events include Allah accepting Prophet Adam's repentance, Prophet Noah's ark landing safely, Prophet Abraham escaping a fiery ordeal, and Prophet Moses leading the Israelites to safety across the Red Sea.
  • Ashura is also marked by the voluntary fasting of Muslims, a practice observed since before Islam and continued by the Prophet Muhammad, though it is now considered a sunnah (recommended) rather than obligatory after the Ramadan fast was instituted.

The Islamic New Year, marked by the month of Muharram, holds profound significance, particularly the 10th day, known as Ashura. This day is revered for commemorating a series of momentous events that shaped the lives of various prophets and offered invaluable lessons for Muslims throughout history.

According to Islamic tradition, Ashura is the day Allah accepted the repentance of Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) after his transgression. It is also the day Prophet Noah's (peace be upon him) ark found safe harbor on Mount Judi after a devastating flood. Furthermore, Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him) was miraculously saved from the fire set by King Nimrod, and Prophet Joseph (peace be upon him) was freed from an Egyptian prison after being falsely accused. Prophet Jonah (peace be upon him) was rescued from the belly of a great fish, and Prophet Job (peace be upon him) was healed from a prolonged illness.

Perhaps one of the most dramatic events associated with Ashura is the salvation of Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and the Children of Israel from the pursuit of Pharaoh. As the waters of the Red Sea miraculously parted, allowing them to cross to safety, Pharaoh and his army were engulfed, marking a decisive victory for faith and perseverance.

These narratives underscore the importance of patience, steadfastness in faith, and unwavering belief in divine assistance. The significance of Ashura is also reflected in the practice of fasting. Historically, the people of Mecca observed the fast of Ashura even before the advent of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) continued this practice and encouraged his companions to do the same. After the obligation of fasting during Ramadan was established, the fast of Ashura became a recommended voluntary act (sunnah).

As Muslims reflect on the 1448 Hijriyah New Year, the stories of the prophets during Muharram serve as powerful reminders of resilience, faith, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. They encourage believers to draw strength from these historical accounts, reinforcing the conviction that Allah's help is always near for those who are devout and steadfast.

Whoever wishes to fast on Ashura may fast, and whoever wishes to abandon it may abandon it.

— Prophet MuhammadThis hadith, narrated by Bukhari and Muslim, clarifies the voluntary nature of the Ashura fast after Ramadan became obligatory.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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