Aşure Day

Ashura Day is observed on the tenth day of Muharram according to the Islamic calendar. This special day holds deep significance in Islamic culture, particularly within the Turk-Islamic tradition. The word “Ashura” derives from the Arabic term “ashara,” meaning “ten.” This day, marked by significant historical and religious events, is regarded as a symbol of sharing, unity, peace, and solidarity.

Ashura Day is one of the most virtuous and blessed days in Islam. According to the Islamic calendar, it carries profound meaning through its association with extraordinary events in the lives of the prophets and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein in Karbala.

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It is believed that several important events occurred on Ashura Day. These events are seen by Muslims as examples of instruction, faith, and surrender:

• The acceptance of Prophet Adam’s repentance,
• Prophet Noah’s ark coming to rest on Mount Judi after the flood,
• Prophet Moses and his people being delivered from Pharaoh’s tyranny,
• Prophet Jonah emerging from the belly of the fish,
• Prophet Abraham being saved from the fire.

These events illustrate God’s mercy and deliverance toward His servants.

Ashura Day not only recalls historical events but also strengthens social values. This special day:

• Offers an opportunity to remember and reflect on faith.
• Encourages connecting with the past by listening to stories passed down by elders.
• Is a day that emphasizes social peace and tolerance. People of different religions, sects, and cultures create a shared value by distributing and sharing the symbolic dessert of Ashura.

• Observe fasting and offer prayers.
• Give charity and care for those in need.
• Remember Imam Hussein and the Ahl al-Bayt.
• Recalling God’s mercy shown to past nations, they express gratitude and seek patience.

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One of the first things that comes to mind when Ashura Day is mentioned is Ashura dessert. It contains many ingredients such as wheat, chickpeas, beans, dried fruits, and sugar. This multi-ingredient dessert is a beautiful example of how diversity can come together to create harmony and flavor.

Ashura is prepared and distributed for the following purposes:

• To strengthen bonds of love among family and neighbors,
• To extend a helping hand to those in need,
• To teach children the value of sharing.

The cultural and humanitarian contributions of Ashura Day include:

• Social Solidarity: People reinforce the value of sharing and togetherness by offering Ashura to one another.
• Cultural Transmission: The recipe for Ashura, traditional narratives, and religious knowledge are passed from generation to generation, thereby keeping cultural memory alive.
• Child Education: Through this special day, children are taught values such as compassion, patience, gratitude, unity, and historical awareness.
• Tolerance and Peace: The joint celebration of this day by people of different beliefs offers a hopeful example for a peaceful society.

• They can prepare and distribute Ashura with their parents.
• They can listen to and share stories related to this day.
• By learning the meaning of Ashura Day, they can discuss historical events and social values.
• They can take small but meaningful steps such as helping neighbors or saying hello.

• TRT Çocuk. Maysa and Bulut - Ashura Day
• Sefamerve. “What Is the Significance of Ashura Day?” [https://www.sefamerve.com]
• Kadın ve Aile. “Ashura Day and Children” [https://kadinveaile.com]
• Presidency of Religious Affairs. Muharram Month and Ashura Day PDF.