YAUMU ʾL-ʿĀSHŪRAʾ (يــوم العاشوراء)
YAUMU ʾL-ʿĀSHŪRAʾ (يــوم العاشوراء), also known simply as Ashura, is the tenth day of the Islamic month of Muḥarram. This day holds profound historical, theological, and cultural significance within Islam, observed by different Muslim communities across the world.
Etymology
The term “ʿĀshūrā” (عاشوراء) derives from the Arabic root word “ʿasharah” (عشرة), which means “ten.” In this context, it marks the tenth day of Muḥarram, the first month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Arabic: يوم عاشوراء
Turkish: Aşure Günü
Historical Background
Ashura is commemorated for various reasons by different Muslim communities:
-
Sunni Muslims: For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a day of fasting and reflection. It is believed to be the day when Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny by the parting of the Red Sea. The Prophet Muhammad recommended fasting on this day to express gratitude and solidarity with the historical traditions of the Abrahamic faiths.
-
Shia Muslims: For Shia Muslims, Ashura is predominantly a day of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This event is seen as a profound stand against tyranny and injustice. Various rituals, including processions and recitations, are held to commemorate the sacrifices made by Hussain and his companions.
Observances and Rituals
Sunni Observances
- Fasting: Sunnis commonly observe fasting on the 9th and 10th days of Muḥarram, or the 10th and 11th, as encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad.
- Prayers and Charity: Additional prayers and acts of charity are also encouraged as a form of devotion and solidarity.
Shia Observances
- Majlis (Gatherings): Held in mosques and community centers to recount the tragedy of Karbala and renew the community’s commitment to justice.
- Processions: Public processions involve chanting and re-enacting scenes from Karbala to evoke empathy and solidarity.
- Self-flagellation: Some Shia communities engage in acts of self-flagellation as a form of penance and expression of solidarity with Imam Hussain’s suffering.
Cultural Significance and Global Observance
Ashura transcends mere religious observance and holds cultural and social significance in many Muslim-majority countries. For example, in countries like Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, Ashura is marked by large public holidays and widespread participation in ceremonies.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “Karbala and Ashura” by Ali Husayn Jalali
- “The Rituals of Ashura: Memory, Emotion, and Modernity in Iran” by Edward W. Said
- “Shia Islam: Identity, Politics, and Iran’s Islamic Revolution” by Laurence Louër
Takeaways and Conclusion
Ashura is a day that embodies historical events deeply rooted in the Islamic faith. Recognized for both celebration and solemn reflection, it serves as a reminder of past struggles and triumphs and a call to ethical conduct and justice in the present. Whether through fasting, prayer, or mourning, YAUMU ʾL-ʿĀSHŪRAʾ remains a pivotal day in the Islamic calendar, rich with spiritual and cultural resonance.
