Can I Fast Only One Day on 9 or 10 Muharram?

Haniya Hassan

July 3, 2025

The Islamic view on fasting only one day during the days of Ashura.

Photo: Masjid Pogung Dalangan

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The days of Ashura, specifically the 9th and 10th of Muharram, hold great importance in Islam. Fasting on these days is a well-known practice.

Is It Allowed to Fast Only One Day on the 9th or 10th of Muharram?

Fasting only one day is not permissible. A person has to fast both (9th and 10th Muharram).

It is recommended to fast both the ninth and the tenth of Muharram because the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) intended to fast on both days. However, if one finds it difficult to fast both days, it is better to leave it rather than fasting only one day.

Evidence

Narration by Ibn ‘Abbaas (R.A.): When Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fasted on the day of Ashura and told the people to fast, they said, “O Messenger of Allah, this is a day that is valued by the Jews and Christians.” The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Next year, if Allah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the time the following year came, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) had passed away. (Narrated by Muslim, 1916).
The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: When the next year comes, we shall fast on the 9th of Muharram. But the next year the Messenger of Allah (SWT) breathed his last. (Sunan Abi Dawud 2445, Book 14, Hadith 133)

The hadith narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas highlights the Prophet’s plan to fast on the 9th in addition to the 10th of Muharram. The scholars’ agreement supports this practice, emphasizing that the Prophet (PBUH) recommended fasting both days.

Bottom Line

It is highly recommended to fast on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram, following the practice and intention of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Jews only fast on the 10th of Muharram. Fasting on both the 9th and the 10th sets Muslims apart from the Jewish practice.