The Day of Ashura is one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar. It falls on the tenth day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic year. The word ‘Ashura’ itself means ‘tenth’ in Arabic. Though the day is important to all Muslims, its meaning and observances differ between Sunni and Shia communities.
Due to the Islamic calendar being lunar, the date of the 10th Day of Ashura changes each year according to the moon sighting. In 2025 Ashura is expected to start on the evening of Saturday, July 5 and end on the evening of Sunday, July 6, in the United Kingdom.
For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a day of celebration and gratitude. It is associated with key moments in Islamic tradition, most notably the story of the Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him). According to Islamic belief, it was on this day that Allah (SWT) parted the Red Sea to allow Musa and the Israelites to escape from Pharaoh’s tyranny. This act of divine mercy and power is a powerful reminder of Allah’s support for those who have faith and trust in Him.
Ashura is also linked to other important religious events. Sunni traditions hold that on this day, Allah forgave Adam (AS) for his mistake, Prophet Nuh (AS) emerged from the Ark after the flood, Prophet Yusuf (AS) was reunited with his father Yaqub (AS)and Prophet Yunus (AS) was released from the belly of the whale. It is also believed that the prophets Ibrahim (Abraham, AS) and Isa (AS) were born on Ashura.
Special prayers, gatherings and feasts end the traditional fast, turning Ashura into a communal day of devotion and celebration.
In Shia Islam, Ashura is a day of mourning, centred around the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali (RA), the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In 680 CE, Husayn was killed at the Battle of Karbala, resisting the rule of Yazid, the Umayyad caliph. Husayn’s refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid was a stand against what he saw as corruption and tyranny. His death, along with that of his family and companions, became a defining moment for Shia Muslims, symbolising the fight against injustice.
For Shia Muslims, Ashura is not a day of celebration but of solemn remembrance. Mourning rituals are observed, including the recitation of poems recounting the tragedy of Karbala. Many dress in black, avoid entertainment and participate in public processions or plays reenacting the battle.
Most Muslims fast at this special time, although Sunnis and Shias do so in very different ways. For both, the benefits of fasting on the Day of Ashura are spiritual. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a time to carry out a celebratory religious fast. This follows the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who Himself fasted on Ashura and encouraged others to do the same. The fast is seen as a way to thank Allah (PBUH) for His blessings. Many also observe an additional fast either the day before or the day after Ashura.
Unlike the Sunni practice of fasting, Shia Muslims avoid full fasting on this day to distinguish between celebratory fasting and mourning. However, some may choose to limit their food and drink to reflect Husayn’s suffering, but they ensure it does not constitute a formal fast.
Despite the different ways Ashura is marked, both Sunni and Shia Muslims view the day as a testament to faith, resilience and standing for justice. Sunni Muslims, while primarily focusing on Musa (AS) and other prophets, also respect Husayn’s bravery and sacrifice. Many Sunnis view Yazid negatively and acknowledge the injustice Husayn resisted.
Similarly, Shia Muslims also recognise the broader significance of Ashura beyond Karbala, including the deliverance of Musa (AS) and other prophets’ milestones. The day highlights themes of divine intervention, faith under trial and the triumph of righteousness over oppression.
It’s important to note that the differences in observance are not the root cause of the Sunni/Shia split, which developed centuries later. Instead, Ashura remains a reminder of shared religious heritage and the values that unite Muslims: faith, patience, justice and devotion to Allah (PBUH).
Muslims across the world use the Day of Ashura to deepen their spiritual practice and understanding. Good deeds, prayers, acts of charity and seeking forgiveness are encouraged, especially as Muharram is one of the sacred months where virtuous acts are multiplied in reward.
For Sunnis, Ashura and the surrounding days are an opportunity to fast, pray and express gratitude. For Shias, it is a day to reflect on sacrifice, injustice and the importance of standing for truth.
Charitable giving is especially meaningful on Ashura, as it honours the spirit of helping others – whether inspired by Musa’s deliverance or Husayn’s resistance. Supporting those in need connects Muslims more closely to the core lessons of the day.
The Day of Ashura is one of the most profound times in Islam. Whether marked by gratitude or mourning, it stands as a testament to the power of faith, the importance of justice and the enduring strength of the Muslim community across generations and traditions. Express the spirit of the Day of Ashura, let its spiritual rewards be granted to you and help vulnerable Muslims around the world by donating to Emaan Relief.
