Doha, July 02 (QNA) - In a statement Wednesday, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs urged all Muslims to fast on Ashura day of Al Muharram month following the Sunna of the Prophet - may peace and blessings be upon him.

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs reminds all honorable Muslims of the recommendation to fast Ashura, which is religiously desirable

The statement clarified that according to the scholars, there are three ranks of fasting it, and all of these ranks are permissible:

1- Fasting for 3 consecutive days 9,10 and 11 Muharram.

2- Fasting on 9 and 10 Muharram only.

3- Fast on the 10th of Muharram only.

The statement noted the virtue of fasting on the day of Ashura as it expiates the sins of the previous year. In reference to Hadith, Abu Qatadah al-Ansari reported: the Prophet was asked about fasting the day of Ashura and he said, "It will expiate the sins of the past year." Source: Sahih Muslim 1162.

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs concluded the statement by reminding all honorable Muslims of the blessings of fasting on this day honoring the Sunna of the Prophet - may peace and blessings be upon him - and seeking to expiate the sins and seek reward from Allah. (QNA)