There is something deeply comforting about the arrival of Muharram.
The rush of Eid has long passed. The excitement of holidays and celebrations has settled into memory. The year stretches before us once more, quietly inviting reflection, renewal and gratitude.
And nestled within this sacred month is one of the most beloved days of the Islamic calendar:
The 10th of Muharram — Aashurah.
For many of us, childhood memories of Aashurah include beautifully laden tables, the aroma of comforting food filling the home, family members gathering together and elders speaking about blessings and barakah.
Yet beyond the food and traditions, lies a day beloved by Allah سبحانه وتعالى, a day connected to gratitude, mercy and immense reward.
This year, perhaps we can embrace both the spiritual and the traditional beauty of Aashurah, fasting sincerely for Allah سبحانه وتعالى , increasing our generosity towards our loved ones, and gathering around a table filled with gratitude.
Why Is Aashurah So Special?
Aashurah commemorates the day on which Allah saved Nabi Musa (عليه السلام) and the Children of Israel from Fir’awn.
When Rasulullah ﷺ arrived in Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on this day.
They explained:
“This is a righteous day. It is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy, so Musa fasted on this day.”
The Prophet ﷺ replied:
“We have more right to Musa than you.”
He then fasted the day and instructed the Muslims to fast it as well.
(Sahih al-Bukhari 2004)
The Reward of Fasting Aashurah
In our busy lives, opportunities for immense reward are precious.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Fasting the day of Aashurah, I hope from Allah سبحانه وتعالى, expiates the sins of the previous year.”
(Sahih Muslim 1162)
Imagine that.
One day of sincere fasting.
One day of drawing nearer to Allah سبحانه وتعالى .
One day that becomes a means of forgiveness for an entire year’s worth of minor sins.
Many scholars recommend fasting the 9th and 10th of Muharram together, or the 10th and 11th, following the practice and intention of Rasulullah ﷺ.
A Day of Generosity Towards One’s Family
One of the beautiful traditions associated with Aashurah is increasing spending on one’s family.
The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said:
“Whoever is generous to his family on the day of Aashurah, Allah سبحانه وتعالى, will be generous to him for the rest of the year.”
Although scholars differ regarding the strength of the narration, many righteous Muslims throughout history have acted upon it in encouraging kindness, generosity and family togetherness.
The spirit of this teaching is beautiful.
A little extra sweetness for the children.
A favourite meal for one’s spouse.
A special dessert shared with parents and grandparents.
A thoughtful gift.
A family gathering.
A table filled not with extravagance, but with gratitude.
Setting an Aashurah Table Filled with Sunnah Foods
One of my favourite ways to mark sacred occasions is through intentional hospitality.
There is something profoundly comforting about gathering around food that reminds us of the blessings Allah has already placed in our homes.
While there is no specific Sunnah menu prescribed for Aashurah, incorporating foods beloved in Islamic tradition creates a beautiful atmosphere for the day.
Dates
Allah سبحانه وتعالى, mentions dates repeatedly in the Qur’an.
“And from the fruits of the palm trees and grapevines you derive intoxicants and good provision.”
(Qur’an 16:67)
Serve a selection of Medjool, Ajwa or local dates as the centrepiece of your table.
Honey
Allah سبحانه وتعالى, says:
“There emerges from their bellies a drink, varying in colours, in which there is healing for people.”
(Qur’an 16:69)
Drizzle honey over warm breads, pancakes or desserts.
Milk
Milk is frequently mentioned in both Qur’an and Hadith as a blessed provision from Allah.
Serve warm milk flavoured with cardamom, saffron or cinnamon on a chilly winter’s evening.
Olives, Figs and Olive Oil
Allah swears by the olive in Surah At-Tin:
“By the fig and the olive.”
(Qur’an 95:1)
Serve olives, olive oil with bread or use it in salads and cooking. Serve fresh figs in a salad or even on its own, maybe with a drizzle of honey.
Pomegranate
Allah سبحانه وتعالى, describes pomegranates among the fruits of Jannah.
Their jewel-like appearance makes them a beautiful addition to any table.
Barley and Whole Grains
Barley was commonly consumed during the time of Rasulullah ﷺ and remains a Sunnah-inspired ingredient.
Barley soup is especially comforting during South Africa’s winter season.
A Simple Aashurah Family Menu
If you’re hosting family this year, consider a menu that is comforting, practical and filled with barakah.
Starter
- Dates
- Assorted olives
- Honey and butter served with warm bread
Main Meal
- Slow-cooked lamb or chicken
- Fragrant saffron rice
- Seasonal vegetables
- Fresh salad with pomegranate seeds
Dessert
- Muhallabia – { Click for the recipe}
- Honey cake
- Date and walnut loaf
Drinks
- Warm saffron milk
- Mint tea
- Fresh fruit juice
The goal is not extravagance.
The goal is gratitude.
Creating Family Traditions That Last
Children remember feelings more than details.
Years from now they may not remember exactly what was served on the table.
But they will remember:
The warmth of family.
The stories of Nabi Musa (عليه السلام).
The excitement of fasting.
The du’as made together.
The laughter around the dinner table.
The sense that this day matters.
And perhaps that is one of the greatest gifts we can give them, a love for sacred days and a connection to their faith that feels both meaningful and beautiful.
A Gentle Reminder
As we prepare our homes and tables this Aashurah, let us remember that the greatest act of the day remains fasting for the sake of Allah.
The food is a means of gathering.
The spending is a means of kindness.
The traditions are a means of remembrance.
But the heart of Aashurah is gratitude.
Gratitude for Allah’s protection.
Gratitude for His mercy.
Gratitude for another year in which we can turn back to Him.
May Allah accept our fasting, increase barakah in our homes, bless our families with goodness, and allow us to witness many more sacred days in His remembrance.
Aameen.
Reflection for Readers
How does your family celebrate Aashurah?
Do you have a special recipe, tradition or memory associated with the 10th of Muharram?
I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below. Your traditions may inspire another family to create beautiful memories of their own.
Subscribe to The Turquoise Scarf for more Islamic lifestyle inspiration, family traditions, recipes and reflections throughout the year.
