First Ashra of Ramadan Dua: Importance, Meaning & Benefits

Ramadan is a month of immense blessings in Islam, and it is very close to every Muslim’s heart. Muslims wait a whole year to come, and they take advantage of the special blessing in this month. Ramadan is divided into three parts, called Ashras. The first ten days represent the First Ashra. The first Ashra of Ramadan is known as the Ashra of Mercy (Rehmat). During these days, Allah showers His infinite mercy upon those who seek it. Here we will discuss the importance, meaning and benefits of the first Ashra of Ramadan dua.

For every Muslim, the first ten days are a golden chance. It is a time to cleanse the heart and ask for Allah’s kindness.

What is the First Ashra of Ramadan?

The word “Ashra” is Arabic for “ten.” Ramadan has three Ashras, each lasting ten days. The First Ashra starts from the 1st of Ramadan and ends on the 10th.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that the first part of Ramadan is Mercy. During this time, the gates of heaven are opened. Muslims focus on being kind to others and seeking Allah’s love. It is the foundation for the rest of the holy month.

The Dua for the First Ashra of Ramadan

To gain the most rewards, Muslims recite a specific supplication. This first Ashra dua of Ramadan focuses on asking for Allah’s mercy. You should recite it as much as possible during the first ten days.

First-Ashra-of-Ramadan-Dua

Arabic Text

رَبِّ اغْفِرْ وَارْحَمْ وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِينَ

Transliteration

Rabbi ighfir warham wa anta khairur raahimeen.

English Translation

“My Lord! Forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.”

Urdu Translation

اے میرے رب! مجھے بخش دے اور مجھ پر رحم فرما، اور تو سب سے بہتر رحم فرمانے والا ہے۔

Why Recite This Dua?

This prayer is taken directly from the Holy Qur’an (Surah Al-Mu’minun). It is powerful because it acknowledges that only Allah provides true mercy. Whether you are working, cooking, or resting, keep this dua on your tongue.

How to Maximise Blessings in the 1st Ashra

Besides the first Ashra Dua of Ramadan, you can follow the routine given below. Here is how you can make the most of the Days of Mercy:

  • Offer Regular Prayers: Never miss your five daily Salah.
  • Recite the Qur’an: Try to complete at least one chapter (Juz) daily.
  • Give Charity (Sadaqah): Allah loves those who help the poor during the month of mercy.
  • Be Kind: Control your anger and speak gently to everyone.
  • Repent Sincerely: Use these ten days to turn back to Allah with a clean heart.

The Significance of the First Ten Days (Ashra of Mercy)

Ramadan offers more than just fasting; it provides a spiritual journey through three distinct stages called Ashras. The First Ashra of Ramadan begins when you sight the moon and covers the first ten days. Islamic tradition dedicates this period exclusively to Rahmah (Allah’s infinite Mercy).

As Alla h opens the gates of Jannah and closes the gates of Hell, these ten days build the foundation for your spiritual growth. Use this time to ask Allah for kindness, regardless of your flaws and sins.

Deep Meaning of the First Ashra Dua

The most recommended dua for this period is taken from Surah Al-Mu’minun (Verse 118). It is a powerful Quranic prayer:

Arabic: رَبِّ اغْفِرْ وَارْحَمْ وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِينَ Transliteration: Rabbi ighfir warham wa anta khairur raahimeen. Translation: “My Lord! Forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.”

First-Ashra-of-Ramadan-Dua-english

Why this Dua is Unique:

  1. Direct Communication: By saying “My Lord,” you are establishing a direct connection with the Creator.
  2. Forgiveness and Mercy: It combines both Maghfirah (forgiveness) and Rahmah (mercy). Forgiveness wipes away the sin, but Mercy brings you closer to Allah’s love.
  3. Praise Allah by ending your prayer with ‘Best of those who show mercy.’ This act of Hamd increases the chances of Allah accepting your dua.

Spiritual Benefits of Reciting the Dua in the 1st Ashra

Reciting the First Ashra Dua of Ramadan consistently has profound effects on a Muslim’s life:

  • Softens the Heart: The first ten days help break the ego and soften a heart hardened by worldly distractions.
  • Attracts Divine Protection: When you are under Allah’s Mercy, you are protected from spiritual and worldly calamities.
  • Preparation for Forgiveness: Seeking mercy in the first ten days prepares your soul for the “Ashra of Forgiveness” (the second ten days).

References from Hadith

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the importance of these divisions. It is narrated in several traditions that:

“The beginning of the month of Ramadan is Mercy, its middle is Forgiveness, and its end is Salvation from the Fire.” (Bihar al-Anwar).

This emphasizes that without securing Allah’s mercy in the first ten days, the journey toward forgiveness and salvation remains incomplete.

Daily Checklist to Maximize the First Ashra

To truly benefit from this period, don’t just recite the dua; live the spirit of mercy. Here is a step-by-step checklist:

  1. Abundant Dhikr: Keep your tongue moist with the 1st Ashra Dua and Tasbeeh-e-Fatimah.
  2. Mercy Towards Family: Ramadan is the time to be extra kind to your parents, spouse, and children. Show mercy to receive mercy.
  3. Feed the Fasting (Iftar): Providing Iftar for someone in need is one of the greatest acts of mercy.
  4. Lengthy Sujud: Use your voluntary prayers (Nawafil) to stay longer in prostration, crying out to Allah for His Rahmah.
  5. Avoid Backbiting: Mercy cannot coexist with bad speech. Protect your fast by guarding your tongue.

The Connection Between Mercy and Charity

In the first ashra, Sadaqah (Charity) is highly encouraged. The Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous of people, and he became even more generous during Ramadan. By being merciful to Allah’s creation (the poor and needy), you attract the mercy of the Creator. Even a small act, like providing water to an animal or a smile to a stranger, counts as a deed of mercy.

Why Our Hearts Ache for Mercy (The Human Connection)

We enter Ramadan carrying the weight of the entire year. We carry the guilt of missed prayers, the stress of our daily lives, and the silent battles no one knows about. The First Ashra is like the first rainfall after a long, dry summer. Allah is saying to you, ‘I know you are tired. Come, sit in the shade of My Mercy.”

It’s not just about reciting words in Arabic; it’s about that lump in your throat when you realize that, despite everything you’ve done wrong, the gates of Heaven are wide open for you.

Finding Your Voice in the Dua

When you recite Rabbi ighfir warham, don’t just say it with your tongue. Say it with the emotion of a child lost in a crowd, finding their mother.

  • The Emotion of Forgiveness: Feel the relief as Allah lifts a heavy burden off your shoulders.
  • The Emotion of Hope: Imagine Allah’s mercy wrapping around you like a warm blanket on a cold night.

A Personal Prayer for You (The “Empathy” Section)

“As you sit on your prayer mat in these first ten days, you might feel like your sins are too many or your heart is too hard. But remember, the ocean of Allah’s mercy is greater than the desert of your mistakes. If you take one step toward Him, He runs toward you. This Ashra is your chance to breathe again. Don’t just fast with your stomach; let your soul exhale all its worries.”

Comparison of the Three Ashrams

AshraDaysThemeFocus
First1 – 10MercySeeking Allah’s Rahmah
Second11 – 20ForgivenessAsking for Maghfirah
Third21 – 30ProtectionSeeking refuge from Hellfire

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the meaning of the 1st Ashra?

The 1st Ashra means the first ten days of Ramadan. It is dedicated to “Rehmat” (Mercy).

2. Is there a specific time to recite the First Ashra dua?

There is no fixed time. You can recite it throughout the day and night while performing your daily tasks.

3. Can I recite other duas during this time?

Yes. While the “Rabbi ighfir warham” dua is recommended, you can also recite Astaghfar and Durood Sharif.

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