You should fast for Ashura in 2024 on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, which are expected to correspond to July 15th and 16th, 2024, or on the 10th and 11th of Muharram, expected to be July 16th and 17th, 2024.
Significance of Fasting on Ashura
The day of Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. Fasting on this significant day, coupled with the day before or after, holds great spiritual reward in Islam. As highlighted in the provided reference, fasting on these days is believed to expiate sins.
The recommended practice is to fast for two consecutive days to differentiate the Muslim fast from the practices of other faiths. The two primary recommended options for fasting days are:
- Option 1: Fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
- Option 2: Fasting on the 10th and 11th of Muharram.
Fasting Dates for Ashura 2024
Based on astronomical calculations for the Islamic calendar year 1446 AH, the dates for Muharram in 2024 are anticipated to align with the following Gregorian dates:
- 9th Muharram 1446: Expected around Monday, July 15, 2024
- 10th Muharram 1446 (Ashura): Expected around Tuesday, July 16, 2024
- 11th Muharram 1446: Expected around Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Therefore, the recommended days for fasting for Ashura in 2024 are:
Recommended Fasting Options:
- Option 1: Fast on Monday, July 15th and Tuesday, July 16th, 2024. (9th and 10th Muharram)
- Option 2: Fast on Tuesday, July 16th and Wednesday, July 17th, 2024. (10th and 11th Muharram)
It is important to note that the exact start date of Muharram and subsequent days may vary by a day depending on the sighting of the new moon in your specific location. It is always best to confirm the dates with local religious authorities.
Significance of the Fast
Fasting on these days is a highly virtuous act in Islam. The reference specifically mentions that "[f]asting expiates sins." This highlights the immense spiritual benefit associated with observing this fast.
For those unable to fast, engaging in other acts of worship such as reading the Qur'an or performing Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) can also bring blessings during the month of Muharram, as the reference suggests.
By observing the fast on the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram, Muslims follow the recommended practice related to the day of Ashura, seeking spiritual reward and expiation of sins.
