عَاشُورَاء
Assurance on Ashura?
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Ashura is the tenth day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year and one of four sacred months in Islam.
The word “Ashura” itself is derived from the Arabic word “asharah,” meaning “ten”. It is a significant day for both Sunni and Shia Muslims, though their observances differ.
Several things that are remembered on Ashura have to do with absolute certain assurance:
Sunni Muslims commemorate the certain salvation God brought about for Mose (Musa) and the people of Israel as he rescued them from Pharao and the Egyptians by parting the red sea.
Some Muslims believe it is also a day associated with the story of Prophet Noah (Nuh) where God saved his family from the flood through the Ark.
Sunni Muslims often fast on this day and are promised certain forgiveness for their minor sins.
There are a few questions arising regarding the topic of fasting in Islam. They can be found in Appendix of this article.
Shia Muslims observe Ashura as a day of mourning, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala against fellow Muslims. They participate in public mourning rituals, including processions, prayers, and chest–beating. Some Shia Muslims engage in self–flagellation to express their grief. It also serves as an important reminder to stand against oppression and injustice.
As history shows, there is no assurance that this fight will be won before the second coming of Jesus.
Here the question needs to be asked: If Islam is the final religion why do we find corruption, terror and bloodshed within years of the death of the final messenger? If Islam replaces all other religions and is powerless to bring about peace and harmony among its own followers, does that mean religion is not the answer to life’s problems, as the Christian view explains below?
Remembering the occasions linked to Ashura, where God’s direct intervention brought absolute assurance and certainty, can instill a longing in those who observe it, for God’s personal involvement in their lives.
One that alone guarantees our salvation and produces a fulfilled life here and now. The good news is that God has indeed prepared such a unique way! It stands out when compared with all other ways that are being offered in this world. To continue reading click here: Ashura
