JAMB Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) 2012 Paper

Concept:The supererogatory fast of Ashura is observed specifically on the $10^{\text{th}}$ day of the Islamic month of al-Muharram.Explanation:The Day of Ashura falls on the $10^{\text{th}}$ day of al-Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.The Prophet encouraged Muslims to fast on this day because it holds great spiritual reward.He said: "For fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate the sins of the previous year." (Reported by Muslim).The origin of this fast goes back to the Prophet's arrival in Madinah.He found the Jews fasting on that day and asked them why.They explained that it was the day Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy, and Prophet Musa fasted in gratitude.The Prophet replied: "I have more right to Musa than you."Thereupon, he fasted and commanded the Muslims to fast on this day as well.Answer:C. $10^{\text{th}}$ of al-Muharram