'Ashūrā' day and Yom Kippur

Abstract

'Ashūrā', characterized by fasting and mourning, commemorates Hysayn ibn Alī's murder. This paper discusses ' Ashūrā's origin, historical background, symbols and rituals, and shows similarities between ' Ashūrā' and the Jewish Yom Kippur. Scholars disagree about the origin of the word ' Ashūrā'. Some believe it derives from Hebrew; others claim that the word is of Arabic origin. Most agree that ' Ashūrā' was designated an annual fast to atone for sins, purify the faithful, and thank God. We discuss the miracles that occurred on ' Ashūrā', and blessings bestowed upon those who observe it, as well as differences and similarities, including dates, observances like affliction, confession, forgiveness, and connection to Judgement Day. The significance of Yom Kippur is its atonement for sins and asking forgiveness, like ' Ashūrā', which preserves Husayn's memory. Repentance, fasting, affliction, and purification through ritual bestow rewards. These evoke, despite great differences, characteristics of the Jewish Yom Kippur.