Fasting in Muharram: A Powerful Act of Worship and Compassion
As the Islamic new year begins with the blessed month of Muharram, Muslims around the world are reminded of its unique virtues and immense spiritual rewards. Among its many blessings, fasting in Muharram holds a deeply honored place in the heart of Islamic tradition. Specifically, fasting on the 10th Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, is a Sunnah that not only brings spiritual purification but also offers an opportunity to reflect on sacrifice, mercy, and social responsibility.
In this blog, we will explore the significance of fasting during Muharram, especially in the context of Ashura 2025, and how you can multiply your rewards by supporting a Muslim charity like Al Mustafa Welfare Trust to help those in desperate need.
The Sacredness of the Month of Muharram
Muharram is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Quran. The Prophet Muhammad (?) referred to it as the month of Allah the only month given this noble attribution. Fasting in this month, especially on the 10th Muharram, is a way to draw closer to Allah and cleanse ones sins.
The best of fasting after Ramadan is fasting Allahs month of Muharram.
[Sahih Muslim]
The Virtue of Fasting on 10th Muharram The Day of Ashura
The Day of Ashura, falling on the 10th Muharram, holds a special place in Islamic history. It commemorates two significant events:
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The salvation of Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from Pharaohs tyranny.
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The martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of the Prophet (?), at the Battle of Karbala.
When Prophet Muhammad (?) learned that the Jews of Madinah fasted on this day in honor of Musa (AS), he said:
We are closer to Musa than them.
[Sahih Bukhari]
He then encouraged Muslims to fast on Ashura and to add a day before or after (9th or 11th Muharram) to distinguish the Muslim practice.
The Prophet (?) also said:
Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it.
[Sahih Muslim]
This means fasting on 10th Muharram is a means of erasing minor sins from the previous year.
Ashura 2025: A Time to Fast, Reflect, and Give
As we approach Ashura 2025, Muslims across the globe including those living in the UK are preparing to fast and commemorate this solemn yet blessed day. While fasting is a personal act of devotion, Muharram also calls us to collective action to stand for justice, to serve humanity, and to remember the struggles of the oppressed.
One of the most compassionate ways to honor this day is by supporting a Muslim charity. Giving charity while fasting enhances the reward, and doing so during sacred days multiplies it further.
Link Between Ashura and Social Responsibility
The story of Karbala is not only about the bravery of Imam Hussain (RA), but also about the suffering endured by his family particularly their thirst under the scorching sun, denied access to water for days.
This connects deeply with todays global water crisis.
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Over 700 million people worldwide lack access to clean water.
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Waterborne diseases kill thousands of children every year.
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Communities in areas like Gaza, Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen are suffering from drought and water scarcity.
Donate and Make a Difference with Al Mustafa Welfare Trust
This Ashura 2025, make your fast count beyond yourself.
At Al Mustafa Welfare Trust, we believe in turning spiritual commitment into real-world impact. With over four decades of humanitarian work, we are delivering clean water projects, emergency relief, and long-term development in some of the most vulnerable parts of the world.
How You Can Help:
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Donate a Water Well to provide clean, safe water to entire villages.
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Sponsor an orphan in memory of the children who suffered at Karbala.
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Support emergency appeals in places like Gaza, Yemen, and Pakistan.
By giving on 10th Muharram, your charity becomes a Sadaqah Jariyah an ongoing reward that continues to benefit you long after your fast is over.
Combine Fasting with Charity for Maximum Reward
Fasting in Muharram purifies the soul, and charity purifies the wealth. When combined, they become a powerful act of worship:
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Fasting = self-control and devotion
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Charity = compassion and sacrifice
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Muharram = sacred time for maximum blessings
Dont miss out on the immense rewards of this spiritually rich time. Let Ashura 2025 be a day of transformation for your soul and for the lives of those in need.
Give More Meaning to Your Fast This Ashura
Fast on the 10th Muharram
Give clean water in remembrance of Karbala
Support a Muslim charity making real impact
Final Thoughts
Fasting in Muharram, especially on 10th Muharram, is one of the most spiritually rewarding actions a Muslim can perform. It connects us with our faith, our history, and our fellow human beings. Let your fast this Ashura 2025 be more than just abstaining from food let it be a day where your worship leads to water, your compassion fuels change, and your remembrance brings hope to those in need.
