Shias do not fast on Ashura because it is a day of deep sorrow and mourning, commemorating the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. Traditions attributed to Shia imams explicitly forbid fasting on this somber day, viewing it as an act of disrespect to the immense suffering endured by the Prophet's family.
The Significance of Ashura for Shias
For the Shia community, the 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, marks the climax of a profound period of remembrance and lamentation. It is a day etched in history as the occasion of Imam Hussein's ultimate sacrifice for justice and truth against tyranny.
- Martyrdom of Imam Hussein: On this day in 680 CE, Imam Hussein and his small band of followers were brutally massacred in Karbala. This event is seen not just as a historical tragedy but as a perpetual symbol of the struggle against oppression and injustice.
- A Day of Sorrow: Unlike some interpretations that might mark Ashura as a day of joyous celebration or special blessings, Shias consider it the darkest day in Islamic history. The atmosphere is one of profound grief, reflection, and solidarity with the suffering of Imam Hussein.
Why Fasting is Prohibited on Ashura
The prohibition against fasting on Ashura stems directly from the Shia understanding of the day's solemnity and the teachings of their imams.
- Expression of Mourning: Fasting is generally associated with days of joy, gratitude, or spiritual cleansing. For Shias, to fast on Ashura would contradict the essence of mourning and sorrow that defines the day. Instead, acts of lamentation, weeping, and remembrance are encouraged.
- Imams' Direct Commands: Shia traditions contain explicit injunctions from the infallible imams forbidding fasting on Ashura. These traditions emphasize that celebrating or treating Ashura as a blessed day is akin to celebrating the tragic events that unfolded in Karbala.
- Rejection of Fabricated Narratives: Shia tradition strongly dismisses as fabricated those Sunni hadiths (sayings attributed to the Prophet) that mark Ashura as a joyful occasion or recommend fasting on it. These traditions are seen as attempts to diminish the gravity of Imam Hussein's martyrdom and to align with the perpetrators of the tragedy.
- Eternal Punishment: Furthermore, traditions attributed to the Shia imams warn of eternal punishment for those who celebrate Ashura as a day of blessing or joy, underscoring the severity of violating the day's sanctity.
Shia Observances on Ashura
Instead of fasting, Shias engage in various practices to commemorate Ashura and express their grief:
- Mourning Gatherings (Majalis): Attending and organizing assemblies where the story of Karbala is recounted, sermons are delivered, and elegies (latmiyas) are recited.
- Processions (Azadari): Participating in mournful processions, sometimes involving self-flagellation or chest-beating, as a physical expression of grief and solidarity.
- Weeping and Lamentation: Openly expressing sorrow and weeping over the tragedy, considered a virtuous act.
- Donations and Charity: Giving to the poor and needy as an act of remembrance and seeking divine reward.
- Abstaining from Joy: Avoiding any form of celebration, joyous activities, or even wearing new clothes.
The table below summarizes key Shia practices related to Ashura:
| Activity | Shia Practice on Ashura |
|---|---|
| Fasting | Forbidden as a sign of disrespect for mourning. |
| Mourning Rituals | Highly encouraged (e.g., Majalis, processions). |
| Celebration/Joy | Strictly forbidden; considered a grave sin. |
| Feasting | Disapproved; simple meals are often consumed. |
| Expression of Grief | Weeping, lamenting, reciting elegies are central. |
| Philanthropy | Acts of charity and kindness are encouraged. |
In essence, for Shias, Ashura is a day of profound grief and solidarity with the sacrifices made by Imam Hussein, making any form of celebration or joyous practice, including fasting, entirely incongruous with its spiritual and historical significance.
