The word “Ashra” is derived from the Arabic word ‘Asharah (عشرة), meaning “ten.” The month of Ramadan is divided into three Ashras, each consisting of ten days, symbolizing distinct spiritual themes: Mercy, Forgiveness, and Salvation from Hellfire.
Division of Ramadan into Three Ashras
- 1st Ashra (Days 1–10): Mercy (رحمت)
- 2nd Ashra (Days 11–20): Forgiveness (مغفرت)
- 3rd Ashra (Days 21–30): Salvation from Hellfire (نجات)
This division allows believers to focus on specific spiritual goals throughout Ramadan.
Purpose and Spiritual Importance of Each Ashra
- Build a deeper connection with Allah (SWT)
- Focus on repentance, self-cleansing, and reflection
- Prepare for Laylatul Qadr and the joy of Eid
First Ashra (Days 1–10): Days of Mercy
Significance of the First Ashra
The initial days of Ramadan set the tone for the rest of the month. These are the days of seeking Allah’s Rahmah (Mercy), increasing good deeds, and starting afresh.
Recommended Dua for the First Ashra
Arabic Text:
يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ أَسْتَغِيثُ
Transliteration:
Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum Birahmatika Astagheeth
Urdu Translation:
اے زندہ اور قائم رب! میں تیری رحمت کے ذریعے مدد چاہتا ہوں۔
English Translation:
O Ever-Living, O Sustainer, in Your mercy I seek relief.
Virtues and Benefits
- Brings Allah’s mercy into your life
- Opens the heart for spiritual growth
- Helps to soften one’s nature and increase humility
Second Ashra (Days 11–20): Days of Forgiveness
Significance of the Second Ashra
This Ashra emphasizes seeking Maghfirah (Forgiveness). It’s a reminder of human weakness and Allah’s boundless capacity to forgive. In addition, people can get the Ramadan Benefits.
Recommended Dua for the Second Ashra
Arabic Text:
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللّٰهَ رَبِّي مِنْ كُلِّ ذَنْبٍ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ
Transliteration:
Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Dhambin Wa Atubu Ilaih
Urdu Translation:
میں اللہ سے اپنے تمام گناہوں کی معافی مانگتا ہوں جو میرا رب ہے اور اس کی طرف توبہ کرتا ہوں۔
English Translation:
I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, from every sin and I repent to Him.
Virtues and Benefits
- Wipes out previous sins
- Brings peace of heart and mind
- Helps in turning back to Allah sincerely
Third Ashra (Days 21–30): Days of Salvation from Hellfire
Significance of the Third Ashra
The final Ashra is the most spiritually intense. It includes Laylatul Qadr, the most powerful night of the year. The focus is on seeking protection from the Fire of Hell and final redemption.
Recommended Dua for the Third Ashra
Arabic Text:
اَللّٰهُمَّ أَجِرْنِي مِنَ النَّارِ
Transliteration:
Allahumma Ajirni Minan-Nar
Urdu Translation:
اے اللہ! مجھے آگ (جہنم) سے بچا۔
English Translation:
O Allah, save me from the fire (of Hell).
Virtues and Benefits
- Saves one from Hellfire
- Increases fear of Allah and mindfulness
- Prepares the soul for Eid and the hereafter
Additional Duas for Each Ashra
Supplementary Duas for the First Ashra
- اللهم ارحمني – O Allah, have mercy on me.
- ربنا آتنا في الدنيا حسنة – Our Lord, give us good in this world…
Supplementary Duas for the Second Ashra
- اللهم إنك عفو كريم تحب العفو فاعف عني – O Allah, You are forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.
Supplementary Duas for the Third Ashra
- ربنا اصرف عنا عذاب جهنم – O our Lord, avert from us the punishment of Hell.
How to Incorporate These Duas into Daily Worship
Timing and Frequency of Recitation
- After every prayer (Salah)
- During Tahajjud and Tarawih
- While fasting, just before Iftar
Integrating Duas into Salah
- Recite in sujood (prostration)
- Include during qunoot in Witr
- Meditate on the meanings during quiet moments
Personal Reflection and Meditation
- Journal your duas and thoughts
- Focus on the meanings, not just recitation
- Create a spiritual routine for each Ashra
Personal Stories and Testimonials
Experiences of Individuals Practicing These Duas
Many believers in Pakistan share that focusing on these Duas during each Ashra helped them:
- Strengthen their connection with Allah
- Improve concentration in prayers
- Experience deep inner peace
Impact on Spiritual Growth
Consistent practice of these Duas leads to:
- Better emotional control
- Increased faith (Iman)
- Motivation to continue good deeds beyond Ramadan
Recap of the Importance of Ashra Duas
The three Ashras of Ramadan provide a powerful structure for spiritual development:
- Mercy in the beginning
- Forgiveness in the middle
- Salvation at the end
Encouragement to Practice With Understanding
Use these Duas not just as a ritual, but as a means of transformation. Learn their meanings, apply them with heart, and teach them to your family and children.