The story and truth of the Day of `Ashura'

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Q 1: What is the story and truth of the Day of `Ashura’ (10th of Muharram)?

A: When the Prophet (peace be upon him) arrived in Al-Madinah after his Hijrah (the Prophet's migration to Al-Madinah), he found the Jews observing Sawm (Fast) of the Day of `Ashura’. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked them about such Sawm, they said, "This is a day where Allah saved Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) and his people and drowned Fir`awn (Pharaoh) and his people. Consequently, Musa observed its Sawm giving thanks to Allah. So, we observe Sawm during it." The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said: "We have more right to Musa (Moses peace be upon him) than you," so he fasted on `Ashura' and ordered us to fast on it. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.