10 days ago, we were blessed with the month of Ramadan,the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. Muslims across the world fast in this month and pray day and night to seek forgiveness from Allah Almighty. All your prayers have a high chance of getting answered in the month of Ramadan than in any other month. The Almighty said in the Quran “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious).” The month of Ramadan which stays for 30 days is divided into Ashras. Today, the first Ashra of Ramadan comes to an end.
Importance of First Ashra
Ramadan is divided into three Ashras. These three Ashras consist of 10 days each. Each Ashra carries a significant impact, special meaning, and reward. These Ashras help the Muslims understand the essence of the month of Ramadan. Muslims make preparations for the Ashras accordingly. The Prophet P.B.U.H said, “It (Ramadan) is the month, whose beginning is mercy, its middle, forgiveness, and its end, release from the fire of hell.”
The first Ashra of Ramadan started on 2nd April and will end on 12th April. In these first 10 days of Ramadan, we ask for the Almighty’s Mercy and pray accordingly. That’s why the first Ashra is also known as the Ashra of Mercy. The dua for first Ashra is “Oh Everliving, The Everlasting, I seek Your help through Your mercy.”
In the Ashra of Mercy, the Muslims make duas abundantly. The recitation of the Quran is also very important throughout Ramadan. With this the night prayers i.e., Taraweeh makes your day complete. Moreover, to please Allah and be counted as one of his good servants, Muslims perform charity. Helping others whenever possible spreads the word of humanity and peace around. This is what Ramadan wants to teach us, the lessons of goodness, humanity, and peace. During this month, all the bad habits are abandoned. People exercise patience and restraint in their matters and work for the good of society.
As the first Ashra nears its end, we are entering a new phase. The second Ashra is known as forgiveness. Use your days wisely and seek Allah’s forgiveness as much as you can. Your virtuous deeds would help you improve your ranks and expiate for your past sins.