Muslims around the world observe Ramadan as a month of fasting, meditation, repentance, charity, and devotion. Throughout the time of its observance, Ramadan has retained its vibrant and ethereal essence. The blessed month of Ramadan has been divided into 3 periods by Allah, which are commonly known as the “Ashras” of Ramadan. Each Ashra covers ten days, holds distinct significance for Muslims who fast.
The Holy Quran certifies the importance of Ramadan and fasting in the following words: “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).”
Ramadan is abundant with benediction, mercy, blessings, and forgiveness without a doubt. Looking from a historical point of view, the Quran was first revealed in the Holy Month of Ramadan as a provider of direction. and enlightenment for the whole of humanity.
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “It (Ramadan) is the month, whose beginning is mercy, its middle, forgiveness, and its end, release from the fire of hell.”
All the three Ashras of Ramadan carry their own distinct characteristics, and significance. The first Ashra starts from 1st and lasts till the 10th of Ramadan. The first ten days (First Ashra) of Ramadan are the days of “Mercy”, and the supplication which should be recited in the first Ashra is: “O! My Lord forgive and have Mercy and You are the Best of Merciful.”
All Muslims should seek the forgiveness of Almighty Allah during these holy days. The recital of the Holy Quran also contains a lot of value, and we should pray for ourselves and others around us as much as we can, as Allah loves and favors those who beg in front of him. The intention of every Muslim during their prayers should be to beseech Allah for His mercy.
In one Hadith, it narrates that Allah says:
“O son of Adam! However much you call upon Me and place your hopes in Me, I will forgive you without any reservation. O son of Adam! If you have sins piling up to the clouds and then ask My forgiveness, I will forgive you without any reservation. O son of Adam! If you come to me with enough mistakes to fill the Earth, and meet Me without associating anything as a partner with Me, I will come to you with enough forgiveness to fill the Earth.” (Tirmizi)
Seeking mercy from Allah is necessary, but we have to show mercy to our fellow companions as well because Allah bestows His mercy on those who are merciful to others. The main goal of the 1st Ashra is to practice being merciful and generous to others, the rich and poor, pious and impious alike. Amongst the many morals that the 1st Ashra enlightens us with, some are enlist below:
i. The core and the fundamental objective of Ramadan is to treat our Muslim brothers well, and learn how to administer control over ill temper, and displeasure.
ii. The month of Ramadan is the most important for Muslims as our good deeds are multiplied, our sins are forgiven and our ranks are increased. This Holy Month is named as “Ramadan”, because it removes our sins and errors, and allows us to perform more honorable deeds.
iii. The best way to respect the 1st Ashra in an ideal way is to perform acts of charity by helping people whenever the opportunity arises.
iv. During the first 10 days of Ramadan, put aside some time to get in touch with relatives and friends, because having good relations with your family brings you nearer to Allah.
v. The most important lesson of the 1st Ashra is to develop patience, and to nurture good manners in oneself.
May Allah ensure us a Ramadan full of blessings and happiness, and forgive our sins. Ameen.
Written by: Miss Ramsha Batool
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