Ashura, celebrated on every Muharram 10th of the Islamic month, is one of the most significant Muslim holidays there is. Today, we'll be exploring some basic information, the ways of observing this day, and most importantly, the many reasons that constitute the significance of the holiday. Are you ready? Let's go!

Now, many of you may be wondering where the term "Ashura" came from. Okay, so "Ashura" originated from an Arabic word that means "ten" - "Asharah". That's why it is celebrated on the tenth day of Muharram.

There are so many reasons that make Ashura extremely important... I simply have no idea which to pick! Here are all that I can think of:

First, there are the Israel children and Musa defeating the Pharaoh. After all the sufferings they've undergone under the Pharaoh's tyrannies, they finally struck back, and won the war. This event will be commemorated for many years, for it's the testament of justice over tyranny, an act of bravery and determination.

Coming second, is the well-known tale of Noah and the Flood. Ashura might be the day of the settling of Prophet Nuh's ship on Mount Judi, and Prophet Noah, out of immense thankfulness to Allah, fasted on that day. That's where the tradition of fasting on Ashura came from.

Next, comes the sacrifice of Hussein. He led his people - the people of Kufa - into fighting Yazid, the despot. But, in the end, his people betrayed him. They beheaded him and gave it to Ibn Ziyaad. Ibn Ziyaad cruelly ruined his head with unfair insult and a stick. This act was infuriating, insolent, disgusting and heart-breaking. However, although we hate the fact that Hussein is dead, we still know that his sacrifice shows just how unwavering and brave he was to injustice and tyranny. His victory comes not from this material world, but from his martyrdom.

Although there are certainly way more reasons that form Ashura's significance, if I write them here one by one, we might still be here until tomorrow or something, but surely you now briefly understand the importance of Ashura, and that you are racking your brain for a way of celebrating it. Fear not! There are many things to do on this amazing day, including fasting in order to gain forgiveness for your sins, donating to charities to help shape a better world and help those in need, and, no doubt for people who believe in Islam, MORE WORSHIPPING!!!

PHEW, that's quite a lot! Ashura is a great opportunity for self-reflection and participation in the act of charity. Ashura also taught us to firmly believe in faith. And in the end, there is only one thing I'd like to say: "HAPPY ASHURA!" : )

Written by: Lily
Edited by: Hazel Antler
Proofread by: Lena Hunt