To single out the day of ‘Aashooraa with a fast

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Question: Is it correct to fast the day of ‘Aashooraa by itself? And what is the ruling regarding the one who does so out of ignorance?

Response: Yes, it is correct to fast [the day of] ‘Aashooraa by itself, and he will be rewarded for that [in shaa.-Allaah]. Because the Prophet ﷺ said regarding the fast of ‘Aashooraa:

«I hope Allaah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it.»

However, some of the scholars dislike that it be singled out, meaning to fast the [day of the] tenth [of Muharram] by itself, and not to fast the day before it, nor the day after it.

Some of the scholars dislike that [it be singled out], they explained that the last of the two commands of the Messenger of Allaah ﷺ:

«Differ from the Jews, [so] fast the day before it, or the day after it.»

And he [also] said:

«If I live until next year, I will certainly fast the ninth [day of Muharram].»

So based upon this, we say to the brother – fast the day before it or the day after it.

Question: If he has any fasts to make up from Ramadhaan, should he fast the day of ‘Aashooraa?

Response: Yes, yes. Whoever has any fasts to make up from Ramadhaan, should fast the day of ‘Aashooraa, and [likewise] fast the day of ‘Arafah, and fast the [three] full moon days.

However, it is better that he begins with that which is obligatory [upon him to make up].

Yes.


Translation originally published on 26 July, 2023

He is a graduate of the Islaamic University of Madeenah, having graduated from the Institute of Arabic Language, and later the Faculty of Sharee'ah in 2004. He currently resides in Birmingham, UK.

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