When is Ashura 2025? A Comprehensive Guide
The Day of Ashura, also known as the 10th of Muharram, is an important day in the Islamic calendar. In 2023, Ashura is expected to fall on either July 05 or July 06, 2025, depending on your location and the sighting of the new moon marking the start of Muharram 1447. This article covers the significance of Ashura, its traditions, and some common misconceptions surrounding this sacred day.
What is the 10th day of Muharram 2025?
| Western Date | Day of Week | Hijri Date |
|---|---|---|
| 6-July-2025 | Sunday | 10-Muharram-1447 |
The Islamic Calendar and Muharram
The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months, and Muharram is the first of these twelve months, making it a significant time in the Islamic year. Known as “The Month of Allah,” it holds great importance in Islamic tradition. The following hadith illustrates the significance of fasting during this month:
“The Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.) said: ‘The best fasting after the month of Ramadan is the month of Allah, Al-Muharram.'”
(An-Nasai: 1613)
Muharram is also one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Quran:
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months… of these, four are sacred.”
(Surah At-Taubah: 9:36)
These four sacred months are Dhul-Qadah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab, as emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) in his last Hajj sermon.
The Significance of the Day of Ashura
Ashura is observed on the 10th of Muharram and holds a unique place in the Islamic tradition. While some people associate the sanctity of this day with the martyrdom of Husain Ibn Ali (R.A.), this event is only one of many reasons for Ashura’s importance. Its sacredness was established long before the tragedy at Karbala.
The Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) himself acknowledged the significance of this day when he found that the Jews of Madinah were fasting to commemorate the day when Moses (A.S.) was saved from Pharaoh. The Prophet said:
“You (Muslims) have more right to celebrate Moses’ victory than they have, so observe the fast on this day.”
(Sahih Bukhari: 4680)
To further distinguish Muslim practices from Jewish traditions, the Prophet (S.A.W.) intended to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, though he did not live to see the following year:
“If I live until next year, I will fast the ninth day too.”
(Ibn Majah: 1736)
Thus, it is recommended to fast on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram to follow this Sunnah.
The Reward of Fasting on Ashura
Fasting on the Day of Ashura is a confirmed Sunnah and offers great spiritual rewards. One of the significant benefits of fasting on this day is the expiation of sins for the previous year:
“Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope, will expiate for the sins of the previous year.”
(Ibn Majah: 1738)
While this fasting is optional, it is a meritorious act that the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) encouraged.
Common Misconceptions about Ashura
Despite its importance, several misconceptions and superstitions have become associated with the Day of Ashura over time. None of these are supported by authentic Islamic texts. Here are some examples:
- Prophet Adam (A.S.) was created on this day.
- Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) was born on the 10th of Muharram.
- Day of Judgment will take place on the 10th of Muharram.
- Taking a bath on Ashura guarantees protection from illness.
None of these claims are substantiated by the Quran or authentic Hadith. The Prophet (S.A.W.) never endorsed such practices, and none of the four major Islamic scholars supported them. Therefore, Muslims should avoid following these myths.
Ashura and the Martyrdom of Husain (R.A.)
Though the Day of Ashura’s significance predates the tragic event, the martyrdom of Husain Ibn Ali (R.A.) at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE (61 AH) is an important event that took place on this day. Husain’s (R.A.) death is considered a profound tragedy in Islamic history, particularly for the Shia Muslim community, who commemorate this day with mourning rituals.
However, it is important to note that the sanctity of Ashura was established long before this event and remains relevant to all Muslims as a day of reflection, fasting, and prayer.
Conclusion
The Day of Ashura in 2025, expected to fall on July 05 or 06, is an opportunity for Muslims to revive the Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.W.) through fasting and other good deeds. Muharram, being one of the sacred months, serves as a reminder to strengthen our faith and relationship with Allah.
Fasting on Ashura brings significant rewards, including the potential expiation of sins from the past year. In addition, we are reminded that the true significance of this day lies in its recognition as a day of Allah’s blessings, not in the myths and misconceptions that have developed over time.
As we observe Ashura, let us revive the Sunnah, seek forgiveness, and strengthen our connection to Allah through prayer, fasting, and righteous actions.
“Whoever revives my Sunnah then he has loved me. And whoever loved me, he shall be with me in Paradise.”
(Tirmidhi: 2678)
May Allah accept our good deeds, forgive our sins, and guide us on the right path.
