First Ashra of Ramadan is the most comforting part of this blessed month. When Ramadan begins, hearts feel soft. The air feels different. Mosques become full. Families wake up for Suhoor together. And deep inside, every Muslim hopes for one thing — Allah’s mercy.

The First Ashra of Ramadan is called the Days of Mercy (Rehmat). These are the first 10 days of this holy month. They remind us that before punishment, before accountability, before fear — there is mercy.

Allah’s mercy comes first.

Let’s understand why the First Ashra of Ramadan is so special, what its dua means, and how we can truly benefit from these beautiful days.

What Is the First Ashra of Ramadan?

Ramadan has 30 days. It is divided into three parts, each lasting 10 days:

• First Ashra (Days 1–10) – Days of Mercy

• Second Ashra (Days 11–20) – Days of Forgiveness

• Third Ashra (Days 21–30) – Days of Protection from Hellfire

The First Ashra of Ramadan focuses on Allah’s Rahmah (mercy). It sets the tone for the entire month. It prepares your heart before you move to forgiveness and protection.

In simple words:

Mercy comes first.
Then forgiveness.
Then safety.

This order teaches us something very deep.

Why Is the First Ashra of Ramadan Called the Days of Mercy?

The First Ashra of Ramadan is called the Days of Mercy because Allah opens the doors of His mercy wide during these first 10 days.

There is a famous hadith that explains the division of Ramadan into three parts of mercy, forgiveness, and protection. Scholars explain that these days are a reminder that Allah is Ar-Rahman and Ar-Raheem — The Most Merciful and The Especially Merciful.

During the First Ashra of Ramadan:

• Allah showers mercy on those who fast sincerely

• Good deeds are multiplied

• Hearts soften

• Tears fall easily in prayer

• Duas are accepted more quickly

This is not just about fasting from food. It is about feeling Allah’s kindness.

Many people enter Ramadan carrying pain, guilt, and stress. The Days of Mercy tell them:
“Come back. Allah is still waiting for you.”

First Ashra of Ramadan Dua

The special dua for the First Ashra of Ramadan is:

Arabic:
رَبِّ اغْفِرْ وَارْحَمْ وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِينَ

Transliteration:
Rabbi ighfir warham wa anta khairur raahimeen.

Meaning:
“My Lord, forgive me and have mercy on me. You are the Best of those who show mercy.”

This dua is short. But its meaning is powerful.

Notice something important.

We ask for:

• Forgiveness

• Mercy

Even in the First Ashra of Ramadan, mercy is the main theme.

Meaning of the First Ashra of Ramadan Dua

Let us understand this dua step by step.

“Rabbi” – My Lord

It shows closeness. You are not speaking to a stranger. You are speaking to your Creator.

“Ighfir” – Forgive me

We admit we make mistakes. We are not perfect. And that is okay.

“Warham” – Have mercy on me

Mercy is bigger than forgiveness. Mercy includes:

• Blessings

• Protection

• Ease

• Love

• Guidance

“Wa anta khairur raahimeen” – You are the Best of the merciful

We believe no one shows mercy like Allah does.

When you read this dua during the First Ashra of Ramadan, say it slowly. Feel every word.

How to Make the Most of the First Ashra of Ramadan

The First Ashra of Ramadan is not just about reading one dua. It is about living with mercy.

Here are simple ways to benefit:

1. Increase Your Dua

• Make dua after every prayer

• Raise your hands before Iftar

• Wake up a few minutes early for Tahajjud

Ask Allah for mercy in your life, family, health, and faith.

2. Show Mercy to Others

If you want Allah’s mercy, show mercy to people.

• Forgive someone

• Help someone quietly

• Feed a fasting person

• Speak gently

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that those who show mercy will receive mercy.

3. Recite the Quran Daily

Ramadan is the month of the Quran. Even if you read one page daily, stay connected.

At Al-Muslim Quran Academy, students are always reminded that Ramadan is the best time to rebuild their relationship with the Quran. Even small steps matter.

4. Fix Your Intentions

Before fasting each day, remind yourself:

“I am fasting for Allah. I want His mercy.”

Pure intention brings great reward.

Spiritual Lessons from the First Ashra of Ramadan

The First Ashra of Ramadan teaches powerful lessons:

Mercy Comes Before Judgment

Allah did not start Ramadan with punishment. He started it with mercy.

This shows us how kind our Lord is.

Everyone Has a Chance

No matter how far someone feels from Allah, these 10 days are a fresh start.

Small Deeds Matter

A smile. A kind word. A small charity. Everything counts more during Ramadan.

First Ashra of Ramadan for Families

Families can use the First Ashra of Ramadan to build strong Islamic habits.

Parents can:

• Teach children the Ashra dua

• Explain the meaning in simple words

• Pray together at home

• Share stories about mercy in Islam

When children understand mercy first, they grow up loving Allah — not fearing Him without understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the First Ashra of Ramadan?

The First Ashra of Ramadan is the first 10 days of Ramadan. These days are known as the Days of Mercy.

What is the dua for First Ashra of Ramadan?

The dua is:
Rabbi ighfir warham wa anta khairur raahimeen.
It means: “My Lord, forgive me and have mercy on me. You are the Best of those who show mercy.”

Why is First Ashra of Ramadan important?

It reminds Muslims that Allah’s mercy is greater than their sins. It sets a positive and hopeful tone for the whole month.

Can I make other duas during First Ashra?

Yes. You can make any dua. There is no restriction. Ask Allah for anything good in this life and the next.

A Heartfelt Reflection on the First Ashra of Ramadan

Think about this.

If Allah wanted, He could judge us immediately. But instead, every year He gives us Ramadan. And Ramadan begins with mercy.

The First Ashra of Ramadan is like a soft door opening. It invites you inside. It tells you that you are not alone. It reminds you that Allah’s love is greater than your past mistakes.

These 10 days pass very fast. Do not let them slip away without asking for mercy.

Sit quietly after prayer tonight. Raise your hands. Say the dua slowly. Feel it.

“Rabbi ighfir warham…”

Let your heart speak.

Because the Days of Mercy are not just a title. They are an opportunity.

And opportunities from Allah are priceless.

May Allah fill our First Ashra of Ramadan with mercy, peace, and acceptance. Ameen.