25th June 2026
Today marks the 10th of Muharram, a day known across the Muslim world as the Day of Ashura.
If you stepped into your local mosque or caught up with family this morning, you might have felt a unique sense of quiet reflection in the air. Muharram isn't just the beginning of the Islamic new year; it is one of the four sacred months ordained by Allah (SWT). And at the heart of this month lies Ashura, a day steeped in history, divine miracles, and powerful lessons on survival and hope.
Whether you are fasting today or simply looking to connect with the blessings of this moment, let's explore what makes this day so special and how we can bring its lessons into our daily lives here in Canada.
What is the Day of Ashura?
The word Ashura comes from the Arabic word 'Asharah, which translates literally to "ten." Historically and spiritually, it marks a day of ultimate triumph for the righteous.
When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ migrated to Madinah, he found the Jewish community fasting on this day. When he asked them why, they explained that it was the day Allah (SWT) saved the Prophet Musa (as) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh.
The Prophet ﷺ replied, "We have more right to Musa than you," and he encouraged Muslims to fast on this day as an act of gratitude to Allah.
The Miracles of Ashura: Light Over Darkness
Ashura is a day where the impossible became possible through the power of Allah (SWT). It serves as a timeless reminder that no matter how dark or overwhelming our circumstances, divine relief is always closer than we think.
While multiple historical events are linked to this day in traditional narrations, the most prominent, Quranically verified miracle is the parting of the Red Sea.
Prophet Musa (as) and his people were trapped. In front of them was a roaring sea, and behind them was the advancing, heavily armed army of Pharaoh. To the human eye, there was absolutely no way out. Fear began to spread among the people.
But Musa (as) stood firm in his faith, uttering words that still shake the heart today:
"No, indeed! Truly, my Lord is with me; He will guide me." (Quran 26:62)
Allah SWT commanded Musa (as) to strike the sea with his staff. The waters parted into towering walls, creating a safe, dry path for the believers to cross to freedom, while Pharaoh's tyranny was brought to an end. It was the ultimate victory of truth over oppression.
How to Make the Most of This Blessed Day
You don't need a complicated plan to capture the blessings of Ashura. Here are three simple, impactful ways to honour this day:
1. Reflection and Gratitude
Take 10 minutes today to sit quietly and reflect on the "seas" Allah has parted for you in your own life. Ashura is fundamentally a day of thanksgiving. Thank Him for the hidden protection, the hardships that eased, and the faith that keeps you grounded.
2. Seek Forgiveness
If you are fasting today, remember the incredible reward attached to it. The Prophet ﷺ was asked about fasting on the Day of Ashura, and he said: "It expiates the sins of the past year." (Sahih Muslim). It is a beautiful chance to clear your spiritual slate.
3. Extend a Hand of Mercy (Giving Sadaqa)
In Islamic tradition, acts of generosity are multiplied during sacred times. The companions of the Prophet ﷺ viewed charity on Ashura as incredibly special; Ibn Rajab mentioned a narration stating that whoever gives charity on this day, it is as if they gave charity for an entire year.
Right now, our brothers and sisters in Gaza are facing their own Pharaoh-like trials of displacement, hunger, and loss. Extending your Sadaqa today isn't just an act of kindness; it is a physical manifestation of the spirit of Ashura—standing with the oppressed and bringing relief to those trapped in a crisis.
Let your gratitude for your safety be the reason a family in Palestine receives clean water, medical aid, and emergency food supplies today.
