Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic Calendar, is a month of worship for Muslims. In this month, Muslims fast during the day, worship at night and strengthen their relationship with Allah (SWT).

This month is a blessed month for Muslims. Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “When Ramadan enters, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The month, which consists of either 29 or 30 days, is split into three parts: three Ashras.

What is the first Ashra of Ramadan?

Ramadan is split into three Ashras, and each last around 10 days. In each of these 10-day blocks, there are different rewards. The first Ashra is called the days of mercy. In these 10 days, Muslims should seek Allah’s (SWT) mercy and praise Him. To seek Allah’s (SWT) mercy, we should also forgive others who may have wronged us in this life.

Muhammad, upon him, be peace, said: “Charity does not in any way decrease the wealth and the servant who forgives, Allah adds to his respect; and the one who shows humility, Allah elevates him in the estimation (of the people).” (Muslim)

This hadith shows that by giving charity, we can seek and receive the mercy of Allah (SWT).

The first 10 days of Ramadan can be difficult to adjust to due to the fasts. However, these 10 days of worship set you on a good path to continue into the next Ashras, In’sha’Allah.

What To Do During the First Ashra

These first 10 days should be used to read more Qur’an, make dua, and seek mercy from the Highest Allah (SWT).

In the first 10 days of Ramadan, as Muslims, we should strive to get into good habits, if not before Ramadan starts. We should give in charity for the sake of Allah (SWT), with the pure intention of seeking His mercy, treating others well and making abundant dua, too.

“Allah, the Exalted, says, ‘Spend, O son of Adam, and I shall spend on you.’” – Prophet Muhammad, upon him, be peace (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

First Ashra Dua

In each Ashra, there is a specific dua to read to reap the blessings of the 10 days. In the first Ashra, one should recite the following dua:

رَّبِّ اغْفِرْ وَارْحَمْ وَأَنتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِين

“RAB-BIGH-FIR WAR-HAM WA ANTA KHAIR – UR- RAAHIMEEN”

“O! My Lord forgives and has Mercy, and You are the Best of Merciful.”

Muslims should also continuously make their own duas during these days to seek Allah’s (SWT) mercy.

Give Charity in the First Ashra

As mentioned above, giving charity in these first 10 days holds a lot of reward. Donate to Orphans in Need to help those who are less fortunate.

The Prophet, upon him, be peace, said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Al-Tirmidhi)