Ashura: A Day of Fasting, Reflection, and True Sunnah – Remembering the Correct Practice in Maldives
Malé, Maldives – July 2025
As the 10th of Muharram approaches, Muslims in the Maldives and around the world prepare to observe Ashura, a day filled with historical significance and spiritual opportunity. Rooted in the noble tradition of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Ashura is a time for fasting, remembrance, and reflection—not for innovation or un-Islamic practices.
For Sunni Muslims, the day of Ashura commemorates the moment when Allah (SWT) saved Prophet Musa (AS) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh by parting the Red Sea. This miraculous event is a reminder of divine mercy and deliverance in times of hardship.
The Prophet ﷺ himself fasted on this day and encouraged the Muslim community to do the same. In a narration found in Sahih al-Bukhari:
“When the Prophet ﷺ arrived at Madinah, the Jews were observing the fast on Ashura, and they said, ‘This is the day when Moses became victorious over Pharaoh.’ On that, the Prophet ﷺ said to his companions, ‘You (Muslims) have more right to celebrate Moses’ victory than they have, so observe the fast on this day.’”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 4680)
Sunnah Practices for Ashura
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Fasting:
Muslims are encouraged to fast on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) along with either the 9th or 11th to distinguish the practice from other traditions. Fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year. -
Qur’an and Dhikr:
For those who are unable to fast, engaging in reading the Qur’an, making Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), or offering voluntary prayers are all highly rewarding actions. -
Supplication (Du‘a):
Ashura is a special day to seek forgiveness, make heartfelt du‘a, and turn to Allah in humility and hope.
Local History: Innovations Once Practiced in the Maldives
Around 40 years ago, some communities in the Maldives observed cultural innovations (bid‘ah) on Ashura that had no basis in Islam. These included celebrating in specific locations, making vows or promises on this day with the belief that they held special power, and gathering for customary rituals that were not found in the Qur’an or Sunnah.
Islamic scholars have consistently reminded that such innovations go against the prophetic tradition. Fortunately, these practices have largely faded from Maldivian society, and today’s Muslims are increasingly committed to observing Ashura in accordance with authentic teachings.
Returning to the Sunnah
Islam encourages all acts of worship to be based on evidence from the Qur’an and Sunnah. Ashura is not a festival or a cultural celebration—it is a day of sincere worship, remembrance, and gratitude for Allah’s mercy.
As more Maldivians return to the essence of Islam, Ashura stands as an opportunity to reflect on past deviations, seek knowledge, and revive the prophetic way.
“The best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad ﷺ.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This Ashura, let us renew our commitment to practicing Islam purely, as it was revealed, without additions or alterations. Whether through fasting, reading Qur’an, or sincere du‘a, we can all take part in the blessings of this sacred day.