First Ashra also known as days of Mercy. Muslims worldwide observe month of Ramadan as a month of fasting, engagement, reflection, repentance and generosity. In the centuries of its observance, Ramadan has maintained its vibrant, transcendental essence.
Muslims get advantages of fasting in the form of divine rewards. The holy month of Ramadan has been divided into three stages called “Ashra”. Each Ashra is of particular importance to the faithful for approximately 10 days. Here we will let you through the 10 lessons of fasting during First Ashra of Ramadan.
Allah (swt) says in Holy Quran:
Why dividing into Ashra
The month of Ramadan always brings blessings, mercy and forgiveness assuredly. It is the best occasion for all the Muslims to seek ultimate mercy from Allah, pray for their forgiveness and to save themselves from the Hellfire. If we observe this holy month historically, the Holy Quran was revealed in the month of Ramadan as a source of guidance for all humankind. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
Dua of First Ashra
Allah says in the Qur’an “Remember Allah abundantly, in order that you become successful” [8:45]
All the three Ashras of Ramadan carry their own specialty and uniqueness. On the basis of that peculiarity, Muslims make supplications accordingly for each Ashra and try to focus their attention on the respective virtues that come with that particular period. Dividing the month of Ramadan into Ashra helps us in understanding further the very essence of Ramadan and Saum (fasting). Each dua for every period is significant. It is essential since it helps us to clear our mind and cleanse our body. Out of several, the major 10 lessons of Ramadan can be sought from the 1st Ashra itself.
Mercy and Blessings
The first Ashra is from 1st to 10th of Ramadan. The first ten days of Ramadan are the days of Mercy. Every Muslim should seek the mercy of Almighty Allah during these days. Reading the Holy Quran is also very important and one must offer as much dua as possible, as Allah loves those who beg in front of Him. All three Ashras offer ways of earning rewards before Ramadan ends.
10 lessons from 1st Ashra
While you seek mercy from Allah, be merciful to your fellow beings as well. Allah certainly loves those who are good to others. In fact, the objective of the first Ashra is to practice being merciful and kind to our fellow beings. Among numerous lessons that the 1st Ashra teaches us, we can enlist a handful as beneath:
- The month of Ramadan is one in which Allah multiplies our good deeds, expunges our sins, and raises our ranks. This month gets its name because it wipes off our sins and permits us to do more virtuous deeds during the holy month.
- By giving charity, we evoke Almighty’s Grace and Favors unto us. It is an act Allah loves the most.
- In this sacred month of Ramadan, the faithful look to purify their body and soul and widen their “Taqwa” (God-fearing quality).
- We all should exercise control over our anger and aggression and treat fellow Muslims well. After all, this is the true essence and objective of the entire Ramadan month.
- To cater to the 1st Ashra is an apt way, we should be performing charity by helping out people whenever and wherever we are able to.
- As Taraweeh is a prayer only for Ramadan, it is pretty natural that it bears lots of extra benefits and rewards. These would help in reaping the fruits of Ramadan in a spiritual way.
- It is a fact that when we give more mercy, we gain more mercy. Kindness always pays back with more kindness.
- It is the first ten days that we consider as the days of personification of mercy. Allah showers His countless mercies upon all those who find it and try to be among others who are blessed.
- During the first Ashra, take the time to visit or call family members who you don’t often speak to, as being close with your relatives will bring you closer to Allah.
- Most importantly, acquiring patience and cultivating good manners are the prime teachings of 1st Ashra.