Main Topic
The significance and virtues of the Mubarak month of Muharram, the Sunnah of fasting on the day of Ashura, maintaining distinct Islamic character, and avoiding extravagance or innovation.
Key Lessons
- Muharram is designated by Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala as His special month (Shahrullah), and good deeds performed during sacred months carry multiplied rewards.
- Fasting on Ashura (10th of Muharram) commemorates Allah delivering Musa (alayhis salam) and the Banu Isra'il from Fir'aun.
- Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) instructed Muslims to fast an extra day (the 9th and 10th, or 10th and 11th) to ensure distinction from non-Muslim practices.
- Muslims should strive for uniqueness in every aspect of life—including eating, dressing, daily habits, and fitness—rather than imitating non-Muslim cultures.
- Generosity toward one's household on the day of Ashura brings barakat in rizq for the year, but it should remain modest and not devolve into costly customs, innovation (bid'at), or extravagance (israf).
Quranic/Hadith References
- Surah At-Tawbah (9:36): Mention of the twelve months and four sacred months (arba'atun hurum).
- Hadith: Reference to Muharram as Shahrullahi Muharram.
- Hadith: Rasulullah's (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) statement regarding Musa (alayhis salam), "Nahnu ahakku bi Musa" (We are more worthy of Musa).
- Hadith: Expand generosity upon one's family on the day of Ashura and Allah will grant abundance throughout the year.
Practical Advice
- Fast on Ashura paired with either the 9th or 11th of Muharram to fulfill the Sunnah.
- Infuse daily actions with Sunnah practices (e.g., using the right side first when dressing) so routine tasks become rewarded ibadah.
- Show modest generosity to immediate dependents on Ashura (such as a slightly better meal or extra spending money) without adopting extravagant societal pressures.
- Make sincere dua for the sick and afflicted members of the community.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb