RAMADAAN KAREEM -SECOND ASHRA
Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim.
بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ
(“in the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful”.)
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh .
السَّلاَمُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَةُ اللهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ .
May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be with you.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is considered to be the most sacred month for Muslims. It is the month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. The month of Ramadan is divided into three parts or Ashra, with each Ashra lasting ten days. The second Ashra of Ramadan holds significant importance in Islam, and Muslims are encouraged to focus on specific aspects of their faith during this time.
The second Ashra of Ramadan is dedicated to seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and showing compassion towards others. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance in many verses. One such verse is:
قُلْ يَا عِبَادِيَ الَّذِينَ أَسْرَفُوا عَلَىٰ أَنفُسِهِمْ لَا تَقْنَطُوا مِن رَّحْمَةِ اللَّهِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ جَمِيعًا ۚ إِنَّهُ هُوَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ
“Say: O my Servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah: for Allah forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:53)
This verse reminds us that Allah (SWT) is merciful and forgiving, and we should never lose hope in His mercy. The second Ashra of Ramadan provides us with the opportunity to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and make amends for our past mistakes.
The second ashra of Ramadan is known as “Ashra al-Maghfirah,” which means the “ten days of forgiveness.” During this time, Muslims are encouraged to reflect on their past mistakes and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT). It is also a time for Muslims to forgive others who may have wronged them, as forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of Islam.
In the second Ashra, one should recite the following dua:
Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambin Wa Atoobu Ilaih
This translates to: “I ask forgiveness of my sins from Allah, who is my Lord, and I turn towards Him.”
Additionally, the second Ashra of Ramadan is also dedicated to showing compassion towards others. Islam places great emphasis on helping those in need and being kind to others. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“Have mercy upon those on earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy upon you.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 2436)
This Hadith reminds us that showing compassion towards others is not only a virtuous act, but it also earns us the mercy and blessings of Allah (SWT).
In conclusion, the second Ashra of Ramadan is a time for seeking forgiveness and showing compassion towards others. By focusing on these aspects of our faith, we can strengthen our relationship with Allah (SWT) and become better Muslims. As we continue through the month of Ramadan, let us make the most of this blessed time and strive to become the best versions of ourselves.
BLOG BY -ALI RAZA