Can I Fast 10th and 11th Muharram? Rules and Virtues

can i fast 10th and 11th muharram Fasting during the sacred month of Muharram holds profound significance in Islam, particularly on the Day of Ashura, which falls on the 10th of Muharram. Many Muslims also consider fasting on the 9th or 11th alongside the 10th to align with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). If you’re wondering, “Can I fast on the 10th and 11th of Muharram?” this article explores the rules, virtues, and reasons behind this practice, offering a clear guide for Muslims seeking to observe this blessed act of worship What is the 250th Anniversary Called?.

What is the Day of Ashura?

Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, is a day of immense historical and spiritual importance. It commemorates significant events in Islamic history, including the deliverance of Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) and the Israelites from the tyranny of Pharaoh, as Allah parted the Red Sea to grant them safety. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recognized this event and encouraged Muslims to fast on Ashura, emphasizing its spiritual rewards.

Additionally, Ashura marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (may Allah be pleased with him), the grandson of the Prophet, in the Battle of Karbala, a solemn event particularly significant for Muslims reflecting on sacrifice and justice. Fasting on this day serves as a means of spiritual purification and remembrance of these pivotal moments.

Can You Fast on the 10th and 11th of Muharram?

Yes, fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram is not only permissible but also highly recommended by many Islamic scholars. The practice of fasting on these two days is rooted in the Sunnah and supported by authentic hadiths. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) initially fasted on the 10th of Muharram and later expressed his intention to fast on the 9th as well to distinguish Muslim practices from those of the Jews, who fasted only on the 10th. However, fasting on the 11th alongside the 10th is also considered a valid and virtuous option, especially if one misses the 9th or wishes to ensure they fast on the correct day due to uncertainties in moon sighting.

According to Islamic scholars, there are three levels of fasting during Ashura:

1. Fasting on the 9th, 10th, and 11th – This is considered the most complete and highly recommended practice.
2. Fasting on the 9th and 10th – This is the Sunnah based on the Prophet’s intention to differentiate from the Jewish practice.
3. Fasting on the 10th and 11th – This is also encouraged, particularly to ensure the fast includes the Day of Ashura and to account for potential discrepancies in determining the exact date.

Fasting on the 10th and 11th is thus a Sunnah practice that aligns with the prophetic tradition and offers flexibility for those unable to fast on the 9th.

Virtues of Fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram

Fasting on Ashura and the surrounding days carries immense spiritual rewards. Here are the key virtues:

• Expiation of Sins: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope that Allah will accept it as an expiation for the sins of the previous year” (Sahih Muslim). This applies to minor sins, with major sins requiring sincere repentance.
• Following the Sunnah: Fasting on the 10th and 11th aligns with the prophetic practice, as it ensures differentiation from other religious communities and adherence to the Prophet’s guidance.
• Blessings of Muharram: Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, and fasting during this month is considered among the best voluntary fasts after Ramadan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The best of fasting after Ramadan is fasting Allah’s month of Muharram” (Sahih Muslim).
• Spiritual Reflection: Fasting on these days encourages Muslims to reflect on the sacrifices of Prophet Musa, Imam Hussain, and other significant figures, fostering a deeper connection to faith and history.

Rules for Fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram

Fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram follows the general rules of voluntary fasting in Islam. Here’s a step-by-step guide to observing the fast correctly:

1. Intention (Niyyah): Make a sincere intention in your heart to fast for the sake of Allah. The intention can be made the night before or before Fajr (dawn). For voluntary fasts, the intention can be as simple as intending to fast for Ashura or to seek Allah’s pleasure.
2. Abstaining from Food and Drink: Like other fasts, abstain from food, drink, and other invalidators (e.g., smoking, marital relations) from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib).
3. Breaking the Fast: Break the fast at Maghrib with a simple meal, preferably starting with dates and water, following the Sunnah. Sharing the meal with family or friends can enhance the communal spirit.
4. Additional Acts of Worship: Enhance the blessings of these days by engaging in extra prayers, reciting the Quran, giving charity (Sadaqah), and reflecting on the events of Ashura.
5. Avoid Forbidden Days: Ensure that the 10th or 11th of Muharram does not fall on a day when fasting is prohibited, such as the days of Eid or the three days following Eid al-Adha (Tashreeq days). However, this is unlikely for Muharram.

Why Fast on the 11th Instead of the 9th?

While fasting on the 9th and 10th is the preferred Sunnah, fasting on the 10th and 11th is equally valid for several reasons:

• Flexibility for Missed Fasts: If you are unable to fast on the 9th due to illness, travel, or other reasons, fasting on the 11th alongside the 10th ensures you still follow the Sunnah of fasting two days.
• Moon Sighting Uncertainty: In some regions, determining the exact date of the 10th of Muharram can be challenging due to variations in moon sightings. Fasting on the 11th helps ensure you do not miss the Day of Ashura.
• Scholarly Endorsement: Prominent scholars, including Imam Ahmad and Ibn Sireen, have recommended fasting on the 11th alongside the 10th to account for potential errors in calculating the date. Some scholars also suggest fasting all three days (9th, 10th, and 11th) for maximum caution and reward.

Is Fasting Only on the 10th Permissible?

Fasting only on the 10th of Muharram is permissible but considered makruh (disliked) by some scholars, particularly in the Hanafi school of thought. This is because the Prophet (peace be upon him) expressed his intention to fast on the 9th to distinguish Muslim practices from those of the Jews, who fasted solely on the 10th. However, even in the Hanafi school, fasting only on the 10th is not sinful, and scholars agree that it still carries rewards, though fasting two days (9th and 10th or 10th and 11th) is preferable.

If you can only fast one day due to personal circumstances, fasting on the 10th is still a virtuous act, provided you make a sincere intention and seek Allah’s forgiveness.

Tips for Observing the Fast

To make the most of fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram, consider these practical tips:

• Plan Ahead: Check the lunar calendar or consult your local mosque to confirm the dates for Muharram 1447 (2025). In 2025, Ashura is expected to fall around July 5 or 6, depending on moon sightings.
• Prepare Physically: Ensure you are well-hydrated and nourished before the fast begins. Have a balanced Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) to sustain energy throughout the day.
• Engage in Reflection: Use these days to reflect on the lessons of Ashura, such as standing against oppression, trusting in Allah’s mercy, and seeking forgiveness.
• Involve Family: Encourage family members to fast and break the fast together, fostering a sense of unity. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “One who generously spends on his family on the day of Ashura, Allah will be generous to him for the entire year” (Baihaqi).
• Use Technology: Apps like Muslim Pro can help track fasting schedules and send reminders for Suhoor and Iftar times.

Common Misconceptions

• Fasting Ashura is Obligatory: Fasting on Ashura is a Sunnah, not a mandatory act. It was obligatory before the revelation of Ramadan fasting but became voluntary afterward.
• Fasting Only on the 10th is Forbidden: While fasting only on the 10th is discouraged by some scholars, it is not haram and still carries spiritual rewards.
• Ashura is Only About Karbala: While the martyrdom of Imam Hussain is a significant event, fasting on Ashura primarily commemorates the deliverance of Prophet Musa and is a Sunnah established before the Battle of Karbala.

Conclusion

Fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram is a highly recommended Sunnah that offers spiritual rewards, including the expiation of minor sins from the previous year. This practice aligns with the prophetic tradition, ensures flexibility for moon sighting uncertainties, and allows Muslims to reflect on significant historical events. By fasting with a sincere intention, engaging in additional acts of worship, and following the rules of voluntary fasting, you can maximize the blessings of these sacred days.

Whether you choose to fast on the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th, the key is to approach the fast with devotion and a desire to draw closer to Allah. May your fasts be accepted, and may Allah grant you forgiveness and blessings in this sacred month of Muharram.