Dua of Ashura: What to Read & Do on the Day of Ashura

Dua of Ashura: What to Read & Do on the Day of Ashura

Looking for the Dua of Ashura? Learn what authentic Islamic sources say about Ashura dua, fasting on Ashura and duas Muslims can make on this day.

Prayer beads beside a quiet window for making dua on Ashura
Article5 min read

Many Muslims search online for “dua of Ashura” or “Ashura dua” as the month of Muharram approaches.

One important point should be understood first:

There is no single specific dua established in authentic hadith that Muslims are required to recite specifically on the Day of Ashura.

A Muslim can, however, make sincere dua to Allah on Ashura just as they can make dua at other times.

Rather than circulating a dua and incorrectly claiming that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ specifically prescribed it for Ashura, it is better to distinguish between authentic Sunnah and general permissible dua.

What Is Ashura?

Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.

Authentic narrations mention that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ observed fasting on Ashura.

Ibn Abbas رضي الله عنهما narrated that when the Prophet ﷺ came to Madinah, he found people fasting on this day in remembrance of Allah saving Musa عليه السلام and Bani Israel.

The Prophet ﷺ fasted Ashura and instructed Muslims regarding fasting it.

What Is the Virtue of Fasting on Ashura?

One of the strongest established practices associated with Ashura is fasting.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was asked about fasting the Day of Ashura and said that it expiates the sins of the previous year (Sahih Muslim).

This makes Ashura an important opportunity for voluntary worship.

Another authentic narration mentions the virtue of fasting during the month of Muharram generally.

Is There an Authentic Dua of Ashura?

You may find many posts online titled “Special Ashura Dua”, “Powerful Dua for 10 Muharram” or “Ashura Dua You Must Read”.

Before forwarding these messages, check whether the claim has reliable evidence.

Muslims are free to make good duas on Ashura, but a general dua should not automatically be described as a special Sunnah of Ashura without authentic evidence.

You can use the day to ask Allah for whatever is good for your dunya and akhirah.

Duas You Can Make on Ashura

Here are meaningful Qur'anic and Prophetic duas that Muslims may make generally. They are not being presented here as duas prescribed exclusively for Ashura.

Dua for Good in This Life and the Hereafter

Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaban-nar.

Meaning: “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”

— Qur'an 2:201

Dua for Forgiveness

Rabbana zalamna anfusana wa illam taghfir lana wa tarhamna lanakunanna minal-khasireen.

Meaning: “Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves. If You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will certainly be among the losers.”

— Qur'an 7:23

Dua for Guidance

Rabbana la tuzigh qulubana ba'da idh hadaytana wa hab lana milladunka rahmah.

Meaning: “Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from Yourself.”

— Qur'an 3:8

Dua for Family and Marriage

Rabbana hab lana min azwajina wa dhurriyyatina qurrata a'yunin waj'alna lil-muttaqina imama.

Meaning: “Our Lord, grant us from our spouses and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous.”

— Qur'an 25:74

For Muslims hoping to marry, this is a beautiful dua to include regularly — not only on Ashura.

Ask Allah for a spouse who brings peace to your life and helps you become better in faith and character. You can also read about dua before Nikah as you approach marriage with intention.

What Can Muslims Do on Ashura?

Rather than searching only for a specific Ashura dua, focus on acts of worship supported by authentic Islamic teachings.

You can:

  • Fast the Day of Ashura
  • Make sincere dua
  • Seek Allah's forgiveness
  • Read Qur'an
  • Perform dhikr
  • Give charity
  • Learn about the Prophets
  • Reflect on the lessons of faith and perseverance

Muslims may also follow scholarly guidance regarding fasting an additional day alongside the 10th of Muharram.

Ashura 2026 Date

Ashura occurs on the 10th of Muharram each Islamic year.

In India, Ashura in 2026 was observed on Friday, 26 June 2026, subject to local moon-sighting determination.

Since the Islamic calendar follows the moon, Muslims should always check their local Islamic calendar or mosque announcement before fasting.

A Lesson From Ashura

Ashura reminds Muslims of something bigger than a date on a calendar.

Allah can create a way forward when circumstances appear impossible. That lesson applies throughout life: when a career seems uncertain, when marriage has been delayed, when a relationship does not work out or when family responsibilities feel heavy.

A believer continues making dua, taking the right actions and maintaining trust in Allah.

At Barkat, we hope to encourage the same principles in the journey toward marriage: sincerity, patience, responsible action and trust in Allah.

May Allah accept our fasting, duas and good deeds and guide us toward what is best.


Frequently Asked Questions About Ashura Dua

What is the Dua of Ashura?

There is no single specific dua established in authentic hadith that Muslims are required to recite exclusively on Ashura. Muslims may make any sincere and permissible dua.

When is Ashura?

Ashura is observed on the 10th day of Muharram.

Should Muslims fast on Ashura?

Fasting Ashura is a strongly encouraged voluntary act established through authentic narrations from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

What should I pray for on Ashura?

You can ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, health, family, halal rizq, a righteous spouse, protection and any other permissible good in this life and the Hereafter.

Can I make dua for marriage on Ashura?

Yes. Muslims may make dua for a righteous and compatible spouse at any time, including Ashura.