What is Karbala and Ashura?

Muharram is one of the most important and sacred months in the Muslim calendar, and the tenth day of Muharram, known as Ashura, is the most significant day of Muharram. Ashura holds religious and cultural importance for Muslims. In this article, we will answer questions like “What is Karbala?” and discuss its historical and spiritual significance, as well as the significance of the day of Ashura.

What is Ashura?

The word Ashura means ‘tenth’ in Arabic. It refers to the tenth of Muharram, a day of great historical, religious, and cultural significance for Muslims. The day is observed differently across Muslim communities. It is on the day of Ashura that the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Hussain (AS), was martyred. 

What is Karbala?

Karbala is located in Iraq. It is situated almost 55 miles or 88 km Southwest of Baghdad. It is a place of great religious and historical significance as it was the center stage of the Battle between Yazid’s army and Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers. The shrine of Imam Hussain (AS) is located in Karbala.

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What happened at the Battle of Karbala?

For many, understanding the question: “What is Karbala?” is central to grasping a pivotal event in Islamic history. The Battle of Karbala took place in 680 CE between Yazid bin Muawiyah’s well-trained, organized army of thousands and Imam Hussain (AS) along with his 72 companions. Imam Hussain (AS) and the rest of his companions took their last stand on the day of Ashura, before embracing martyrdom. Earlier, Imam Hussain (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid and stood firmly for the principles of truth and justice. Yazid’s rule was marked by oppression and moral decay. Instead of making compromises or aiming for political gains, Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions preferred martyrdom.

Ashura’s Importance Before the Battle of Karbala:

The significance of Ashura predates the battle of Karbala. Muharram was a sacred month long before the Battle of Karbala occurred. Even in the pre-Islamic world, it was observed as a holy month, often marking a cessation of hostilities and other forms of violence. Islam retained its sanctity, and it is among the four most sacred months mentioned in the Quran. 

“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them. And fight against the disbelievers collectively as they fight against you collectively. And know that Allah is with the righteous [who fear Him].”  (Surat At-Tawbah, 9:36)

The History of Ashura Fasting

Fasting on the Ashura day is a religious practice that existed before the Battle of Karbala. The Hadith tells us that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) fasted on that day and asked his followers to do the same. However, fasting in Muharram became optional after fasting in Ramadan became obligatory. 

“Narrated Aisha: During the Pre-lslamic Period of ignorance the Quraish used to observe fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’, and the Prophet (ﷺ) himself used to observe fasting on it too. But when he came to Medina, he fasted on that day and ordered the Muslims to fast on it. When (the order of compulsory fasting in ) Ramadan was revealed, fasting in Ramadan became an obligation, and fasting on ‘Ashura’ was given up, and who ever wished to fast (on it) did so, and whoever did not wish to fast on it, did not fast.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 4504)

According to another Hadith, Muslims fasted to remember the day Allah (SWT) granted victory to Hazrat Musa (AS) and his followers over the Pharaoh.

“Ibn Abbas (Allah be pleased with both of them) reported that when Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) came to Medina, he found the Jews observing the fast on the day of Ashura. They (the Jews) were asked about it and they said: It is the day on which Allah granted victory to Moses and (his people) Bani Isra’il over the Pharaoh and we observe fast out of gratitude to Him. Upon this the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: We have a closer connection with Moses than you have, and he commanded to observe fast on this day.” (Sahih Muslim, 1130a)

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How to Observe Ashura?

Some Hadith mention spiritual rewards for fasting on the day of Ashura.

Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked about observing As-Saum (the fast) on the tenth day of Muharram, and he replied, “It is an expiation for the sins of the preceding year.” [Muslim]. (Riyad as-Salihin, 1252)

However, it is an optional practice. Acting righteously on the Day of Ashura is highly encouraged. While many Muslims choose to fast on Ashura, many give charity to commemorate the martyrs of the Battle of Karbala. While giving charity is a great initiative, helping deserving patients in their recovery is another excellent way to honor the day of Ashura.

Why Donate to Transparent Hands on Ashura Day:

Islam encourages the act of giving charity. This Ashura, you can help deserving patients regain their health. Since its inception, Transparent Hands has helped more than 250,000 deserving Pakistani patients. We use online crowdfunding to collect donations from around the world. Transparent Hands ensure transparency by providing complete details about the patients we assist. We also arrange medical camps in low-income areas to make healthcare more accessible for people who cannot afford it. Our medical camps provide free medical check-ups, diagnostics, and medications. We also arrange preventive healthcare sessions to inform and educate the public about adopting the best practices to stay healthy.

Transparent Hands is Sharia-compliant. Give your Sadaqah, Zakat, and donations to Transparent Hands to help needy patients make a new start this Muharram.

Conclusion:

In this article, we addressed some frequently asked questions about Karbala. We explored questions like: What is Karbala? The struggles of Karbala symbolize the fight against tyranny and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs. The lessons of Karbala are still relevant today. We must continue to strive for social justice and equity. One way to do this is by supporting organizations like Transparent Hand. We provide medical and surgical support to underserved communities in Pakistan. Give your Sadaqah to Transparent Hands on the auspicious day of Ashura.

Read More: 

The Battle of Karbala and Its Lessons

What is Ashura and Its Importance?