Question
What is the virtue of fasting on ‘Ashura? Are the major sins or minor sins forgiven?
Answer
Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) is reported to have said:
“I hope from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Ashura may atone for the sins of the preceding year”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1162)
The commentators of Hadith explain that the minor sins are forgiven. A person will have to make Tawbah for his major sins.
(See Al Minhaj of Imam Nawawi rahimahullah)
Note: One is encouraged to add one more fast to the tenth, either a day before or after. See here.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best
Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar